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On March 19, 2025, ���������ƽ�� proudly hosted the "Women on the Move: Standing by My Sister" conference, an empowering event focused on allyship, mental health awareness, financial literacy and civic engagement. Organized by the Office of Career Services in collaboration with the Learning Commons and Student Support Services STEM Program, the conference brought together students, faculty and community members for an afternoon of engaging discussions and interactive workshops.

Held on the second floor of ���������ƽ��’s downtown campus, the event provided attendees with an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and participate in conversations centered on sisterhood and support. Dr. Jarmese Sherrod served as emcee for the festivities and kicked off the event with a high energy and inspirational opening call-and-response activity. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Kim Everett, a Culture, Inclusion & Wellness Strategist from higher education organization One Million Degrees. Dr. Everett highlighted the power of mentorship and support networks in helping women navigate career and personal challenges.

The event also featured a dynamic panel of guest presenters:

• Ivana Zelaya Avila – Coordinator of Experiential Learning and Internships at ���������ƽ��, Avila led a workshop on professional networking and leveraging mentorship for career growth.
• Harmoni Jordan – A Learning Support Specialist at ���������ƽ��, Jordan’s session focused on academic resilience and mental well-being in higher education.
• Bianca Hernandez – A Licensed Therapist and founder of Insight Out Therapy & Wellness, LLC, Hernandez provided insights on workplace mental health, emotional intelligence and stress management.
• Laura E. Lopez – Vice President Community Manager at JPMorgan Chase, Lopez led a session on financial empowerment, covering budgeting, wealth-building and financial independence for women.
• Sharmili Majmudar – Executive Vice President of Policy, Programs & Research at Women Employed, Majmudar discussed workplace allyship and fostering inclusive professional environments.

These speakers provided valuable insights on career advancement, well-being and financial literacy, equipping attendees with tools to navigate their personal and professional lives.

The conference concluded with a networking social, fostering meaningful connections among attendees. ���������ƽ��’s New Deal Jazz Ensemble provided the live music as students, faculty and local community members mingled with the event’s organizers and guest speakers. Events like the Women on the Move conference are the reason why the ���������ƽ�� Office of Career Services recently received the Certificate of Appreciation from the Office of the Governor—Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service.

“We are thrilled to have hosted this transformative event that provided a platform for women to share their experiences and support one another,” said Nancy Inkertsiah, Director of ���������ƽ��’s Office of Career Services. “Through engaging discussions and valuable resources, we hope to inspire individuals to stand by their sisters and create lasting change.”

The success of the "Women on the Move" conference underscores ���������ƽ��’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment and social justice. The University looks forward to continuing this important conversation and expanding opportunities for learning and growth.