What inspired you to pursue a career in IT?

Like many people in our industry, I backed into my career in technology via Higher Education. As the Deputy Director of Enrollment Management at Fordham University, I was the liaison between our Enrollment division and the Information Technology group that supported our efforts. Cambridge Technology Partners, a business consulting organization, came looking for leaders in the higher education space, to join their team of consultants focusing on ERP implementations in the higher education market space. That was my entrance into the world of technology, cloud and cyber solutions. The rest is history…

What is the most challenging part about being a woman in IT?

The fact that there are so few female leaders in our industry is alarming. The industry, unfortunately, doesn’t foster an environment where women can flourish. The lack of representation for women in tech can hinder a woman’s ability to succeed in the industry. We have very few mentors and sponsors available for women to grow and thrive within their roles. It can be even more isolating as a female leader/executive in the world of Big Tech because unfortunately the “Bro Culture” is pervasive. The biggest challenge is finding the right network and identifying opportunities to promote each other.

What is the most rewarding part about being a woman in a leadership role?

The most rewarding part of my job in my current role is without a doubt the ability to be a mentor to young women entering this industry and helping them realize their successes. I also love the fact that I bring a level of perspective that many of the men on my team do not focus on. I believe we help each other see through different lenses. I happen to work on a team with very strong and professional women at Cisco. We help each other, nurture each other and enjoy bringing a different perspective to each conversation. That is something that is well received at Cisco Systems. I’m thankful.

Why is diversity in business important to you?

It helps you discover more opportunities. Seeing situations through many different lenses, allows us to consider the many paths that are available to us. With diversity comes opportunity, greater creativity and innovation, increased productivity, improved employee morale, and broadening the talent reach.

The notion of creating an ALL-inclusive landscape for different and unique people to thrive should be the goal for all organizations, especially in the world of technology innovation.

What advice would you give an aspiring female IT leader?

Find your peeps!!! You are in charge of your career. You are responsible for propelling your successes. Find a mentor with each new role you take on. Embrace openness, focus on the market you contribute to, be professional even when the people around you may not be, stay relevant and most importantly, be true to yourself!

Want to tell us anything else?

I am passionate about serving and educating my customers. I love that I have the opportunity to call the greatest city in the world my backdrop. In New York, only the best of anything survives. That is why Cisco is a true partner in education. These colleges are imparting knowledge to our most valuable resources, our children. Thank You!
When I am not on a college campus, or in a university board room, I am most likely spending time with my wife of more than 20 years and our son, who is currently going through the college application process himself. Good Luck Blake! We love to ski, travel, play tennis, theater and we are still searching for the ultimate single malt!