The Power of Connection: Speed Networking with Community Leaders

On Saturday, October 14th, The Fund’s Girls Advisory Board and CivicG+ programs brought together 28 aspiring young minds for an engaging speed networking event. These enthusiastic high schoolers had the unique opportunity to interact with accomplished professional women from various sectors, offering them a sneak peek into the world of business and nonprofit leadership.

During this event, small groups of students engaged with each of the ten guest speakers for concise but enlightening ten-minute sessions. They delved into conversations about career paths, hurdles these successful women may have faced, and gathered invaluable advice for their ongoing research projects.

“I wish I had an opportunity like this when I was growing up.” Many guest speakers echoed this sentiment, underscoring the power and need for such mentoring opportunities for young people. The Fund connects young minds with mentors from diverse sectors, including banking, landfill management, philanthropy, nonprofit management, legal advocacy, marketing, and more!

We are incredibly grateful for the guest speakers who attended the Speed Networking event (listed from left to right):

  •          Krista Seng, Lead, Corporate Giving and Community Affairs for Aqua Pennsylvania, an Essential Utilities Company
  •          Shannon Pierce, an Attorney at Fox Rothschild
  •         Jennifer Carlson, the Executive Director at the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville
  •          Elizabeth Osborne, Landfill Superintendent at the Chester County Solid Waste Authority
  •          Rebecca Worthington, Vice President of Marketing for Benchmark Federal Credit Union
  •          Jahnavi Rao, Founder and President of New Voters
  •          Mary Lawrence, an Attorney at MacElree Harvey
  •          Michele Vaughn, Chester County Register of Wills
  •          Donna Rowland, President of the Coatesville Area Branch of the NAACP
  •          Stephenie Stevens, Grants Director & Outreach Officer for the Chester County Community Foundation

The excitement didn’t wane after the event; students and guest speakers continued their conversations and established connections. This engagement will pave the way for the upcoming Spring event, where The Fund will host another Speed Networking event. This time, the focus will be on connecting participants with elected officials, staffers, and other government employees, promising even more incredible opportunities for growth and mentorship.  Stay tuned for more details in the Spring!