Broad’s Advancing Women in Business event champions empowerment and connection

The biannual Advancing Women in Business event has become a cornerstone of Broad’s commitment to creating empowered transformational leaders. On Nov. 13, students, alumni, faculty and industry leaders gathered at the University Club of Michigan State University for an evening dedicated to supporting women at every stage of their careers — from aspiring students to seasoned professionals reconnecting with the college.

The event opened with intentional networking. Conversation cards guided attendees through career-oriented inspirations, advice and opportunities. This structured start set the tone for an evening focused on collaboration and authentic dialogue about advancing women in business.

In his opening remarks, David Souder, the Eli and Edythe L. Broad Dean, underscored the importance of creating inclusive environments where all professionals can thrive, aligning with Broad’s vision to work hard, work smart and work together.

“This event is about building up and empowering people to make the most of their careers and to support other people,” said Souder.

Cheri DeClercq, assistant dean of graduate initiatives & academic innovation, who launched the event in 2009, reminded attendees why this space matters.

“Women often put work, family and much more in front of their own priorities,” she said. “So, this event is about setting time aside in your busy day to focus on you. Because yes, you should support all those things, but sometimes you need to put yourself at the top of that list.”

The core of the event featured a candid conversation guided by DeClercq with two accomplished Broad alumnae: Josie Archer (B.S. Supply Chain Management ‘88), senior vice president of global sales at Aptiv and Lyla Ellens (MBA 2018), chief operating officer for The CFO Group and at Energy Storage Safety Products International. Both leaders shared stories of their unique career paths, bold decisions and lessons learned along the way.

Archer reflected on the importance of taking ownership of her career trajectory. “You can’t assume people know you want that next promotion,” she said. “Be vocal about it.” She encouraged attendees to view career moves as growth opportunities rather than risks. “Change is scary but there’s good things that come out of it as well… It’s a huge opportunity to learn more and get different experiences.”

Ellens echoed that sentiment and the importance of a mindset shift that accelerated her own growth. “For me, the big difference was asking, did I move the needle for the business?” She said, sharing how focusing on impact rather than process-oriented perfection opened new doors.

Both panelists stressed that confidence matters, encouraging women to be bold in seeking new work and positions. Their journeys emphasized why women must take responsibility in elevating and sharing their successes.

The conversation turned to strategies for navigating uncertainty, a reality that has become constant in today’s business world. Ellens shared how she approaches major decisions, citing the importance of seeking perspectives not just from those you trust, but also the small connections you make at business events or when traveling. “Some of the best advice I’ve gotten was a two-minute conversation with someone I didn’t know,” said Ellens.

Panelists also highlighted the importance of sustaining energy as a foundation for influence and leadership. They encouraged women to lean into the work that sparks enthusiasm and aligns with their strengths, noting that influence grows when energy does. Ellens urged participants to identify activities that replenish their energy and serve as self-care, adding, “Time isn’t renewable, but energy is. Pay attention to what lifts you up.”

Following the panel discussion, audience members joined the conversation on networking strategies, cultural barriers and balancing confidence with collaboration. Both panelists offered practical advice, pointing to owning your own achievements while recognizing those who helped you along the way.

Other questions explored remote work and influence in hybrid environments. Archer acknowledged the challenge but emphasized intentionality in communication touchpoints. She noted that in-person interactions make it easier to build trust, but making time for casual conversations in remote work environments can be just as valuable.

The evening closed with a powerful reminder that success is not just about achievement but also aligning priorities and considering longevity. Ellens shared the importance of checking in with oneself, noting that it’s okay to have a packed life and schedule but to make sure it’s packed with things that matter.

DeClercq echoes this sentiment, highlighting how the trusted Advancing Women in Business series exists

“Broad’s Advancing Women in Business events are vital to women in the Spartan community,” she said. “We’re navigating so much professionally and personally, and these events highlight the value of coming together, learning together and lifting each other up.”

Through events like Advancing Women in Business, Broad continues to champion its mission of developing global business leaders who prioritize positive impacts on organizations and society. By creating spaces for authentic dialogue and actionable insights, the college empowers those who seek to support women in business and gives them a space to come back to each year with this event.