Seton Hall University-FWA Mentoring Program Fall Kickoff Inspires the Next Generation

October 12, 2023

Last Tuesday, October 3, 2023, the Seton Hall University-FWA Mentoring Program launched its Fall Kickoff event, a gathering destined to inspire, connect, and uplift the next generation of aspiring female leaders. This event proved to be a remarkable occasion filled with networking opportunities, mentorship, and invaluable insights that will shape the career paths of young women.


The evening commenced with a delightful networking session, offering mentees a chance to connect, share stories, and build meaningful relationships with both mentors and peers. Amidst enjoyable refreshments, an atmosphere of enthusiasm and camaraderie set the stage for the night's main event.


A Fireside Chat, skillfully moderated by Donna Harris, Chair of the FWA Seton Hall Mentoring Program, featured FWA Mentors Liz Harper from CLA and Laura Bourgeois from Prudential. These accomplished women shared their wisdom with a room packed with eager mentees. They emphasized the critical role networking plays in career development, with Liz Harper noting, "Networking is fundamental. It's something you did when you were in high school and didn't even know it. Continue to learn how to build connections. When you walk into a room, speak to the person who is sitting there alone. Build a network and go get what you want."


Self-belief emerged as a central theme, with Donna Harris encouraging mentees to "be true to yourself." Confidence and authenticity were lauded as potent tools for success.


Additionally, Kim Sterling, another mentor in the program, offered empowering advice, reminding students of their incredible potential, and encouraging them to seek meaningful aspirations. "You are incredible, remember that! Remember that in your life you want something that is meaningful, and people want to help you, just ask. Ask for what you want," Kim urged.


Laura Bourgeois emphasized another vital skill for young women: setting boundaries. She emphasized that establishing boundaries early can foster work-life balance and overall well-being.


The Seton Hall University-FWA Mentoring Program exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship in nurturing talent and fostering the growth of future female leaders. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a mentor, consider the opportunity to make a lasting impact through the Financial Women's Association’s NextGen Programs, visit this link to learn more.

SAVE THE DATE: Global Capital & Leadership Forum

April 9, 2026
The MENA Capital Landscape: Risk, Resilience & the Road Ahead May 5–6, 2026 Join the Financial Women's Association for a timely conversation on sovereign capital, energy transition, AI, and the geopolitical forces reshaping global finance. When our UAE trip was cancelled, we immediately looked for ways to bring the experience to our community here in NYC - this forum captures the spirit, substance, and strategic importance of that journey. Registration details coming soon - save the date on your calendar now! Virtual Lunch Panel · Tuesday, May 5 In-Person Morning Program in New York City · Wednesday, May 6 One registration. Two experiences. One conversation.

Volunteers Needed for Financial Backpack Workshop

April 8, 2026
FWA members are invited to participate in a personal finance workshop on April 29th, 2026, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm, at the High School of Economics and Finance.  The school is located at 100 Trinity Place, near Wall Street. The workshop will involve the FWA high school mentees at HSEF. We will have a training prep session the week before, either on April 21 or 22, depending on availability of the volunteers. If you are interested, or would like more information, please contact Suzanne Matthews, Committee Co-chair, at [email protected] .

Women’s History Month: Seventy Years of Change and the Women Who Refused to Wait

March 17, 2026
by Robert Brown Every March, Women’s History Month invites us to reflect on the women who challenged expectations, opened doors, and changed the course of industries that once excluded them. For the Financial Women’s Association, that reflection is personal. As the organization celebrates its 70th anniversary, the story of FWA mirrors the broader story of women’s progress in finance. What began in 1956 with eight determined women has grown into a global community that has helped generations of women enter, navigate, and lead in an industry that once shut them out. Those eight enterprising women did something quietly radical. They were working inside investment banks and financial institutions at a time when their talent was welcome, but their presence in leadership circles was not. The established associations of the day did not admit women. Access to the conversations, relationships, and influence that shaped the industry flowed through rooms they were not allowed to enter. So they built their own.

Building a Community in Florida

March 12, 2026
Something special is taking shape in Florida. Earlier this week, women from across the state gathered in Palm Beach Gardens as the FWA Florida Committee hosted its inaugural in-person event at DSM Capital Partners in celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day. The program featured a forward-looking conversation on AI and technology in investing, followed by an interactive session on personal branding and executive presence led by FWA President Albana Theka and Florida Committee Co-Chair Marie-Helene Kennedy-Payen. Connections began the evening before at a dinner that set the tone for a day filled with energy, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue. By the time sessions began, the room already felt like a community. That’s what the FWA does best. Special thanks to Florida Committee Co-Chairs Marie-Helene Kennedy-Payen and Kari Desai, DSM Capital Partners for hosting, and all who joined. “Nothing beats the power of community and human connection. It was incredible to see women from across Florida come together for conversations that were insightful, energizing, and genuinely fun.” - Marie-Helene Kennedy-Payen 
More Posts