Last Wednesday, the Women in Business Club at SRU hosted a Red Carpet Gala.
Students gathered in the Smith Student Center Ballroom for a night of networking and education about the business industry.
Krislyn Green and Andrea Bauer are the presidents and founders of the new organization. The students planned and organized this event.
“The Red Carpet Gala was an incredible opportunity to bring together students, alumni, faculty and business professionals for a night focused on networking, mentorship and celebrating the launch of our Women in Business organization,” Bauer said. “Throughout the evening, guests were able to connect during the networking portion of the event, enjoy appetizers and hear about the mission and vision behind the organization…it was inspiring to see many people invested in helping students grow professionally.”
The event lasted from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. When individuals arrived, they were able to take pictures and enjoy refreshments.
“The event gave students the opportunity to interact with business professionals and practice their networking skills in a welcoming environment,” Green said. “Overall, the event was a great success…thanks to the support of sponsors and companies that purchased tickets, over $4,600 was raised to support student professional development opportunities for semesters to come.”
Individuals from Trib Total Media spoke about their experience in their field. After the discussion, individuals used Bridge Badges to network and connect with others around them.
The organization also held a “best-dressed contest” during the event.
The student presidents shared their favorite parts of the Red Carpet Gala.
“My favorite part of the event was watching the networking portion of the evening unfold. Seeing students confidently introduce themselves, engage in conversations with professionals and begin forming connections was incredibly rewarding. It was also amazing to see the level of support from sponsors, alumni, and faculty who came out to support our mission. Moments like that truly showed the power of community and reinforced why creating opportunities like this for students is so important,” Bauer said.
“What I loved most about the event was seeing the vision we had months ago turn into a reality. A few months ago, this was just an idea being discussed among a group of students who believed Slippery Rock University could benefit from a Women in Business organization. To see so many sponsors, professionals, alumni, faculty and students come together to support that vision was incredibly meaningful,” Green said.
The organization has many events and programs planned for next semester.
“Looking ahead, we are excited to continue growing the Women in Business organization and expanding the opportunities available to our members. Our goal is to host more networking events, professional development workshop, and guest speaker sessions that connect students with industry professionals and mentors. Additionally, next semester we will be working with Dr. Rindy and the Center for Career and Academic Progress (CCAP) on a case study focused on student retention within both our organization and the Haverlack College of Business,” Bauer said.
Individuals can join the Women in Business Club on CORE, as well as follow their Instagram at sruwomeninbusiness.
“The advice I have for students, especially as I prepare to graduate, is to always work hard and follow your dreams. Go after what you are passionate about. There is no better feeling than accomplishing great things with the people around you…turning everyone’s ideas into action, and that action into meaningful impact,” Green said.
Read this article to learn more about the Women In Business Club at SRU.
