The Women of Color Community (WOCC) at Michigan State University hosted its sixth annual conference on Friday, February 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event centered around the theme “Culture, Career and Community: Amplifying Experiences to Shape the Future Together,” offering a vibrant blend of cultural celebration, career development, and networking opportunities.
Opening the conference was a warm welcome accompanied by a continental breakfast, fostering an engaging atmosphere for participants to connect before diving into the day’s activities. Attendees were encouraged to network and build connections, setting the tone for a productive and inspiring event.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
A standout moment of the conference was the “Women of Color Cultural Experiences,” an interactive festival highlighting the rich heritage of women. Through storytelling, shared traditions, and engaging activities, attendees participated in cultural showcases, including an eye-catching Nubian fashion show. Guest speaker Rihab Musa, founder of Nubian Jewelry, shared her inspiring entrepreneurial journey and the significance of her ethnic roots, encouraging attendees to value and preserve their cultural traditions.
Empowering Professional Development
The conference also featured valuable professional development sessions tailored to support women of color in their career journeys. Sherri Reese, MSU’s Director of Talent for Human Resources, conducted an inspiring session focused on professional growth. She provided insights into leadership, workforce planning, and career advancement, drawing on her expertise in talent acquisition and strategic planning to empower attendees in their respective fields.
Navigating Career Challenges
In addition to cultural and professional development, discussions included navigating difficult work environments, balancing education with full-time work, and understanding tenure versus non-tenure track options in academia. Panelists from various MSU departments offered guidance and resources specifically tailored for women of color in academic settings, advocating for women’s rights and increased equity in professional and academic spheres.
Inspiring Reflections
As the conference drew to a close, attendees expressed feelings of empowerment and inspiration, recognizing the importance of community, representation, and career advancement. Emily Fenneuff, advising operations coordinator for the assistant dean of University Advising, remarked, “Being surrounded by so many strong, accomplished women who uplift one another was truly inspiring.” Others echoed her sentiments, highlighting the event’s rich cultural significance and the inspiration drawn from various cultural representations.
With the event concluded, WOCC organizers expressed their appreciation to the MSU and Lansing community members whose involvement made the conference a success. Their contributions enriched the conversations and helped strengthen the cultural and professional networks that WOCC is dedicated to cultivating each year.
Continuing with its mission of fostering diversity and inclusion, the MSU Women of Color Community remains committed to providing a platform for women of color to engage meaningfully, ensuring their voices are amplified, supported, and celebrated.
Photos by Dane Robison
