Smeal College of Business

Smeal College of Business empowers women at 'Powerful Women Paving the Way'

Among the more notable speakers through the years at Powerful Women Paving the Way was Cathy Engelbert, then the CEO of Deloitte. She is shown here sharing a stage with Charles H. Whiteman, the John and Karen Arnold Dean of Smeal. Credit: Smeal of College of Business. All Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Smeal College of Business and the Penn State Women in Business student organization are joining forces to host the 2024 Powerful Women Paving the Way Conference on April 18-19 at the Penn Stater Conference Center and Hotel. 

This two-day event is designed to empower female leaders, young professionals and students by equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve success in their careers. 

The conference theme, "Believe In You," underscores the importance of self-confidence and personal development. Attendees will gain valuable insights from a lineup of accomplished speakers. 

Angela Shakur, an executive at ALDI Inc. and an entrepreneur, will be the keynote speaker on the opening night of the conference. Dinner and Shakur’s address are planned for 6-8 p.m. April 18.  

Liz Murray, an inspirational speaker and best-selling author, will speak at 9 a.m. March 19 as the morning keynote speaker. 

Johnna Hayward, head of strategy and partnership marketing for the WNBA’s New York Liberty, will deliver the afternoon keynote address from 1:15-2 p.m. on March 19. 

In addition to the keynote addresses, the conference offers a variety of breakout sessions focusing on critical topics, such as:  

  • Mastering Your Emotions 

  • From Setbacks to Success 

  • Balance Your Life, Balance Your Future 

  • Inclusive Excellence and Championing Change 

  • The Compass of Career Choices 

  • Building Your Virtual Brand 

Kathy Maxwell, a certified health education specialist and former health care provider, will lead a self-care session titled “A Recipe for Savory Neurochemical Soup” from 11:15 a.m. to noon on March 19. 

Registration is now open. The fee is $179 for nonstudents and $19.99 for University Park students. A professional bundle for five attendees also is available for $800. The deadline to register is April 1. 

About Penn State Women in Business 

The Penn State Women in Business student organization is dedicated to empowering women to achieve their full potential in the business world. The organization provides a supportive network for women and offers professional development opportunities throughout the year. 

For more information about the "Powerful Women Paving the Way" conference, visit smeal.psu.edu/powerfulwomen

Last Updated March 15, 2024

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