WEST past events


STRATEGIC VERSUS TACTICAL THINKING

June 22, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

Both tactical work and strategic context are critical to be effective in your job – and even the way you navigate the world. Tactical activities allow you to get the work done, strategic thinking and context provides you with a great understanding and an ability to be most impactful in what you do on a daily basis.  Strategic thinking involves long term planning, determining priorities, and identifying potential risks and opportunities. In addition, strategic thinking becomes increasingly important in the higher levels of an organization.  During this workshop you will learn how to increase the value you bring to an organization by focusing your efforts on long-term impact activities, in addition to short-range implementation.

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WOMEN OF THE FUTURE: AWARDS AND PANEL DISCUSSION
June 16, 2016, 6:00-9:00 PM

Our exposure to great role models and sponsors can substantially influence how our careers grow and develop. Please join us for an evening to honor three inspirational established women leaders who have made their mark and to recognize and celebrate outstanding women from the next generation. Be inspired, network, and support the career advancement of women in science and technology!

      Awardees
Anne Heatherington – Vice President, Head of Quantitative Clinical Sciences at Pfizer Amy Schulman – Venture Partner at Polaris
Anita Santos – Vice President at Tyco Securities

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LEARNING THE ART OF THE INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW

June 15, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

You’re told that networking is key to success in building your career. You finally go out on a limb and book an “exploratory” interview to collect information about a job, career field, industry or company. Now what?? Come learn how to ask for, conduct, and follow up with exploratory, or any kind of interview. You’ll learn practical information on how to prepare for and guide these important discussions. In addition, we’ll have some hands-on exercises to give you practice. This workshop will be led by Alice Koehn Benson, President & CEO of Gatti & Associates.

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DRIVING YOUR CAREER FORWARD - MENTORS, SPONSORS, COACHES
June 8, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

The work rules have changed. It is no longer how quickly you can move up the ladder or that by doing good work, you will be noticed and promoted. It is all about building up your portfolio of valuable experiences and assignments that accelerate your learning, your performance, your network and your future opportunities. And you need others to support you in your career – “a board of advisors” who provide advice, access to assignments, feedback, and accountability support.

In this inspiring session, workshop presenters, Ellen Keiley & Carol Salloway, will cover the new realities and the actions you can take to increase your value and career potential. Learn the difference between mentoring, sponsorship, and coaching and how each of these three activities are important for your talent and career development. You will leave with some clear next steps to drive your career forward!

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WEST BOOK CLUB
May - November 2016, 6:30-8:30 PM

WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. We would like participants to commit to four sessions to create a supportive community. We will have a facilitator for each discussion group who will have read the book, so those who do not finish the whole book should still feel comfortable attending and joining in the conversation. We understand people get busy at certain times of the year and may not get to finish every book. We have selected the books based on member suggestions

  • May 18 = The Happiness of Pursuit: Finding the Quest That Will Bring Purpose to Your Life by Chris Guillebeau
  • July 20 = Getting Past No: Negotiating in Difficult Situations by William Ury
  • September 21 = Dealing with People You Can't Stand, Revised and Expanded Third Edition: How to Bring Out the Best in People at their Worst by Rick Kirschner, Rick Brinkman
  • November 16 = The Steve Jobs Way: iLeadership for a New Generation by Jay Elliot 

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RELAUNCHING CAREERS IN BIOTECH/LIFE SCIENCES/PHARMA - HOW IT'S DONE Four Success Stories on How to Return to Work After Long Career Breaks
May 25, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

We are thrilled to announce the participation of four professionals from the Biotech/Life Sciences/Phama sector who have successfully returned to work after long career breaks. Three panelists have experienced multi-year career breaks and one had a shorter career break of less than a year, but went through a career transition at the same time.  Please join us for an exciting evening of diving into the most important factors for return-to-work success. Featuring Indira Krishnan, Enith Morillo, Theresa Singleton, Carol Waghorne, and Carol Fishman Cohen.

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THRIVING DURING CHANGE
May 11, 2016, 5:00-8:00 PM

“Change-artists” are savvy professionals who harness change in order to position and accelerate their careers. This workshop is designed for professionals who want to thrive during organizational transitions, while staying aligned with their values, goals and vision. Rather than being buffeted by the winds of change, learn how to stay centered and steer your own course.   

During this interactive presentation, Claudette Rowley, a seasoned Executive Coach and Change Management Consultant, will lead you through her 8 step “Thrive During Change” process. 

You’ll learn:

  • Two essential skills for remaining centered and focused

  • Strategies, tools and techniques for thriving that you can easily incorporate

  • The unique roles that culture and mindset play in your ability to thrive during change

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WOMEN IN SCIENCE AND THE BURN OUT FACTOR
April 28, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

While women have made great strides in science it has not come without a cost. Women come in to science later, leave earlier and express more discontent with their choices than their male counter parts. Why? A large part is the hold over culture from early days helps people avoid the burn out that all people experience in high end careers are more geared towards men. While this was not intentional, it is just that men were the entire crowd back then, women need ways to tackle the burn out factor that are specific to the way they live their lives. Planning the career track, working their way up the ladder and being a productive and valued team member are done differently between men and women. This talk by Heather Duffy focuses on how women can take steps in their journey to identify their specific areas of burn out, how to tackle them and how to move forward in the face of burn out. 

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ACCELERATE YOUR CAREER THROUGH PERSONAL BRANDING AND MARKETING YOURSELF
April 6, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

When we use the term “marketing”, most people think of products, services and commodities.  How about ourselves – marketing our talents, accomplishments and value – inside our organizations and outside within our profession, industry and community.  Are you or your staff members comfortable talking about yourselves in this way?  More importantly, are you prepared to talk about yourselves in this way – packaging your talents and accomplishments – showcasing them, leveraging them and presenting your value internally within your organization and externally within your chosen fields & communities?  Identifying, creating and articulating one's “personal brand" empowers us to 'own our career' and seize opportunities we aspire to achieve. Personal branding and the ability to market ourselves is an essential ingredient for successful career management.  Learn how to create a framework to embrace and develop this core competency from Rita B. Allen.

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NETWORKING SKILLS FOR INTROVERTS

March 21, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

Some of us will never enjoy walking into a room of strangers and having to make connections. Does that mean we’re doomed professionally? Not at all! Maya Townsend, founder and lead consultant at Partnering Resources, will explain some of the science behind networking and show how that science can help engineers, technologists, and introverts make connections successfully and strategically. She will draw on insights from the social sciences and business world to explain the networking practices of high performers. Maya will dispel the myth that people who want strong networks should never eat alone and, instead, explain the simple actions that can significantly contribute to the health of their network. 

If you attend this session, you can expect to come away with:
• An understanding of some of the science behind networking.
• An ability to identify networking practices of high performers.
• A first-pass analysis of your professional network’s strengths and gaps. 

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INTERVIEWING SECRETS THAT HONE YOUR COMPETITIVE EDGE
March 2, 2016, 6:00-8:00 PM

First impression & expert Janet Parnes is on a mission to equip young professionals with skills that enable them to maximize the opportunities and handle the conundrums that come with career advancement. In this Interview Preparation workshop, you will learn: hygiene and attire, when to arrive, acknowledging the receptionist and how to make the most out of the waiting room, the professional introduction, and initiating and maintaining a conversation, common conundrums, the powerful silent messenger monitoring your own and reading another’s body language, post-interview pitfalls & considerations and follow up that keeps you memorable.

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BEST PRACTICES IN HIRING, RETAINING, DEVELOPING, AND ADVANCING WOMEN LEADERS IN ENGINEERING
February 23, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

How do we REALLY develop women leaders? Come learn from experts. Join us for a provocative panel presentation and interactive dialogue highlighting best practices in hiring, retaining, developing, and advancing women leaders. Panelists will share lessons learned and effective approaches for moving toward gender balance at all levels. Come to network with other movers and shakers in the science and technology community and be inspired. 

Panelists: 
Jessica Ballinger, Senior Director, PO&T Patient Insights & Experience, Biogen
Lloyd Johnston, Ph.D., Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President R&D, Selecta Biosciences
Julia Rashba-Step, Senior Director, Novel Delivery Technologies at Pfizer BioTherapeutics

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CAREER PATHS AND WORKING IN INDUSTRY
February 26, 2016, 8:30-11:00 AM

Biogen's WIN group is offering roundtable discussions with women from various areas of Biogen.  They will be talking to female grad students/post-docs about their career paths and decision to work in industry.  This event will be limited to the first 30 to register.

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PRESENTING WITH IMPACT
February 11, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

We all have to sit through presentations that are boring, long and not inspirational. We all give presentations. Whether you are persuading colleagues, selling a client or energizing a team, the power of your presentation skills makes the difference between success and failure. In this workshop you will learn how to make a different presentation that is attractive and impactful. You will get background information and ideas that work and practical tips. You will get a chance to practice and work on your presentation skills. Come and join and experience that presenting can be fun. This workshop will be led by Caroline Mourits. 

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EFFECTIVE TRANSITION FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY
January 28, 2016, 6:00-8:30 PM

Join us for this annual event to hear lessons learned from a variety of individual experiences and to learn the critical skills necessary for a smooth and effective transition. Panelists include individuals that have successfully made the transition from academia as well as experienced recruiters who have managed these kinds of transitions. 

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WEST'S 8TH ANNUAL "GIVING BACK" AWARDS CEREMONY
January 21, 2016, 6:00-9:00 PM 

Meet the extraordinary and inspiring women being honored and hear the stories of how they have made a profound impact on society. The honorees are role models who balance job and personal responsibilities while making a difference in their community. Join us to congratulate them, be inspired, network, and support the career advancement of women in the enterprise of science and technology! 

Local companies in STEM nominated the women we will be celebrating this year. We received a large number of applications and will recognize many amazing women. We will also honor WEST volunteers and supporters whose dedication and outreach efforts have helped us reach our strategic goals. 

Appetizers, wine, and dessert will be served.

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2015

 

ANNUAL CAREER POSSIBILITIES - SPEED NETWORKING NIGHT
December 2, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by people who have used their science and technical training to advance their careers in different directions?

Join us for WEST’s Annual Career Possibilities Event. The evening will start with facilitated networking, so you can meet the other attendees and panelists. This will be followed by a panel discussion to learn more about each panelist and their key lessons learned. Then you will have the opportunity to break into small groups and talk with the different panelists. 

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HOW TO GET TO THE SENIOR LEVELS OF SCIENTIFIC MANAGEMENT
November 19, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on successful strategies for women in reaching top management in the sciences. A dynamic panel of women leaders will share their successes, and more importantly their lessons learned, as they have moved up the career ladder in scientific management. Come hear the wisdom of women leaders as they provide candid feedback and insightful advice on what enables women to reach the top.

Panelists: 
Rosana Kapeller, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Nimbus Therapeutics
Rachel Meyers, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Research of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
Jo Viney, Ph.D., Vice President, Immunology Research at Biogen Idec

Moderator: 
Alexandra (Sandra) Glucksmann, Ph.D., Chief Operating Officer at Editas Medicine Inc.

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THE ELEPHANT AND THE STAPLER: DEVELOPING A COMMON LANGUAGE OF EFFICIENCY, EFFECTIVENESS, AND TIMELINESS
November 12, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Do you feel that sometimes your organization mirrors the old tale about the blind men and the elephant? The tale says that when the blind men were asked to describe the elephant, they could not produce a unified picture of the elephant because they were describing its different parts. In today’s organizational environments, this tale is used to illustrate how people have to ‘collaborate’, ‘communicate’, ‘align perspectives', etc. Yet, these valuable concepts are vague and non-prescriptive, i.e. they do not tell you how to change behaviors in a concrete way so that day-to-day decisions capture and act on the whole picture of the elephant. The result is that you end up with a stapled version of a complex situation and difficult interpersonal dynamics. In this workshop, you will learn from Iris Stammberger how to escape the blind men conundrum by helping your team 'see' situations in all their complexity. You will learn: 1. how to capture the various perspectives as a unified view, and 2. how to develop and track appropriate metrics of performance. This interactive workshop offers practical application of tools created to support decision-making in complex work.

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A CONVERSATION ABOUT BUILDING RESILIENCE AND THRIVING IN A CHANGING WORLD WITH NICKY MARSHALL
November 9, 2015, 6:30-8:30 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Nicky Marshall about her book The Missing Piece in Bouncing Back. The evening will start with facilitated networking and continue on with Nicky sharing the 6 signs of stress and illness and how to turn the tides, how to recognize 3 things you already have and how to celebrate them to love your life and everyone in it, and the project with 23 other people that is making a difference on a global scale. The event with include a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session. The discussion will be moderated by Laurie Vallas, Internal Communications Lead/ Change Management Liaison for GSK and Founder of The Heartifacts.

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HOW CAN COMPANIES GET YOU, KEEP YOU, AND MOVE YOU UP THE LADDER. COME AND HEAR ABOUT BEST PRACTICES FOR HIRING, DEVELOPING, AND RETAINING WOMEN LEADERS IN BIOTECH
October 29, 2015, 6:00-9:00 PM

Join us for a panel presentation and participative dialogue about best practices in hiring, developing, and retaining women leaders in the science and technology fields. Our panelists will share some approaches that work and describe how women and men, working together, are starting to move the needle on the gender divide.

Come to network with other movers and shakers in the science and technology community and be inspired while enjoying appetizers, wine, and dessert. 

Panelists:

  • Karen Anderson, SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
  • Javier Barrientos, Senior Director, Global Diversity & Inclusion, Biogen
  • Marsha Fanucci, Board of Directors of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc., FORMA Therapeutics, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
  • Christelle Perros, Chief Scientific Officer for Inflammation and Remodeling in BioTherapeutics Research & Development, Pfizer 

  

GET ON BOARD: INSIDE THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
October 13, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including the combinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards. 

Panelists: 

  • Samantha Budd Haeberlein, Ph.D., Vice President, Neurology Clinical Development, Biogen
  • Ellen Richstone, Board Member of BioAmber and EMagin

  • Marjorie Ringrose, SVP Boston Director of Social Impact, Social Venture Partners

  • Yvonne Schlaeppi, Independent Director & Managing Partner, Stratevise LLC 
  • Susan Vogt, Chief Executive Officer, Aushon BioSystems
  • Dr. Jill Wittels, Managing Partner of Sostenuto Strategic Advisors, Board Chair, CEO Mentor, and Angel Investor 

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HOW TO CREATE A LEADERSHIP CAREER PLAN
October 8, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Can you confidently articulate your value to your company without hesitation? Are you positioning yourself to be visible and open to career advancement? Are you still waiting to be discovered? Most companies have strategic goals that guide them to greater profitability and productivity, but have you crafted your own strategic goals and multi-year career plan? How will you leverage your experience to propel your own growth and contribute to the development of your employer. In this session, Karen Hinds will help you answer those questions and give you a blueprint for a sound career plan. 

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BEST PRACTICES FOR HIRING, DEVELOPING, AND RETAINING WOMEN LEADERS IN HIGH TECH
September 28, 2015, 6:00-9:00 PM

Join us for a provocative panel presentation and interactive dialogue highlighting best practices in hiring, retaining, developing and advancing women leaders in high tech. Panelists will share lessons learned and effective approaches for moving toward gender balance - at all levels - of organizations.

Come to network with other movers and shakers in the science and technology community and be inspired while enjoying appetizers, wine, and dessert. 

Panelists:

Paula C. Beauregard, Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer at Edge Velocity
Scott Berkey, North America Managing Director and CEO of SIMULIA at Dassault Systèmes
Kate Hoepfner-Karle, Vice President of Talent and Organization Development at Medtronics
Matteo di Tommaso, Vice President of Research & Development Information Technology at Biogen

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WEST BOOK CLUB
September 2015 - March 2016, 6:30-8:30 PM

WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. We would like participants to commit to four or six sessions to create a supportive community.  

Books include Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace, Disappearing Acts by Joyce Fletcher, Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini, and The Have It All Woman by Susan Sly

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BECOMING MORE STRATEGIC
September 24, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Do you tend to focused on details and perfection rather than the bigger picture? This workshop led by Jodi Detjen talks about the five shifts that will help you move into a more strategic mindset, understand your value, and increase your impact.

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A CONVERSATION ABOUT LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES WITH EDITH ONDERICK-HARVEY
September 3, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Edith Onderick-Harvey about her book Getting Real: Strategies for Leadership in Today’s Innovation-Hungry, Time-Strapped, Multi-Tasking World of Work. The evening will start with networking and continue on with a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session. The discussion will be moderated by Sandra Glucksmann, Chief Operating Officer at Editas Medicine and WEST Board Chair.

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ANNUAL NETWORKING NIGHT
July 29, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM 

WEST’s Annual Networking Night is great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. Members of WEST come from a wide variety of countries and cultures. Come and celebrate our rich diversity, learn more about cross-cultural communication, and enjoy facilitated networking under the guidance of Principle of GTL Coaching & Consulting, LLC and WEST Board Member, Ali Farquhar.

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ANNUAL NETWORKING NIGHT
July 23, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM 

WEST’s Annual Networking Night is great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. 

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WANT TO INCREASE YOUR ODDS FOR SUCCESS? CHANGE YOUR MINDSET
June 24, 2015
, 6:00-8:30 PM

Research shows that 70% of change initiatives fail, not due to the quality of strategies, plans or tactics, but rather faulty execution. Procrastination, opportunity blindness, and mis-prioritization are at the core of execution gone wrong. Fortunately, this phenomenon has nothing to do with intelligence - it has everything to do with mindset - the set of beliefs that help us interpret and reach conclusions about the events and circumstances that we experience. Mindset either blocks the ability to execute or delivers powerful motivation in the face of setbacks and challenges. 

What can you do? To increase your odds of success, please join Claudette Rowley and Matt Edison of Play To Win Mindset for an eye opening and informative talk combining real business issues with the latest thinking in behavioral science, psychology and neuroscience. You will leave this talk with an actionable plan for how to identify and address hidden beliefs that hinder progress and lock in the optimal mindset to increase the odds for success for your most important change efforts.

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PUBLIC FREAKING VS PUBLIC SPEAKING
June 17, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Do public speaking, interviewing or networking make you want to run for cover? Do you wish you could do these face to face interactions via email? 

Do nervousness and self-consciousness undermine your ability to share your passion and vision?

This fun workshop will teach you physical, emotional and mental strategies that will enable you to bring your most confident and authentic self to all aspects of your work-life including leadership, public speaking, networking and interviewing.

Amanda Hennessey and Peggy Lynn Romero will address those overwhelming nerves, self-consciousness, and what to focus on as you prepare. Vocal variety, tone, movement and other relevant topics will also be covered.

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USING THE MYSTERIOUS FORCES WITHIN A COMPANY
June 10, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

You are smart, successful, ambitious, and getting caught in the things you hate most -- office politics and culture -- the “mysterious forces” that can confuse you and derail your career. But there is hope -- when you understand the most powerful human and organizational dynamics flowing around you, you can navigate more effectively. Debbie Burke will present a model to help you observe and decode your enterprise atmosphere at micro and macro levels. The model can guide you to tune into subtle details and put them into a comprehensive, yet nuanced picture so you understand what is really going on. You will start putting your sociological detective work to use right in the workshop. Bring a brief description of one or two of your most challenging organizational conundrums so you can start untangling them and moving forward immediately. This session will be in workshop form – part presentation, part small group work, part individual planning.

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CLAIMING YOUR PERSONAL VISION, MISSION, VALUES, AND EDGE
June 3, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Most of us have the desire to stand out, to feel as though we are making a difference… that it matters that we’re here and part of the team. Does it feel as though you’re not quite sure about how to differentiate yourself, how to leverage your strengths and gifts? Maybe you’re not even clear about what they are! Thanks to Marie Bankuti you can:

  • Learn a simple process for gaining clarity around what you bring that is unique 

  • Understand how to align what’s personally and professionally fulfilling to you with your work 

  • Leverage your strengths, gifts, expertise and experience for your greatest impact 

  • Get into action around what matters most to you 

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EFFECTIVE NETWORKING PRACTICES TO BUILD REWARDING RELATIONSHIPS
May 20, 2015, 6:00-8:00 PM

For a variety of reasons, it is beneficial to be well networked. This program will cover effective ways to build and maintain a network. Participants will have a chance to practice what they learned and leave with practical tips that can be implemented right away. Topics covered include: The power of a network; finding networking opportunities, the elevator speech, event tips and how to work a room, follow-up, and relationship building. This program will be facilitated by Ellen Keiley, President of EMK Consulting Group. 

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THE NEW CEO: ALWAYS LEARNING AND SETTING THE TONE FOR INNOVATION ON DAY ONE
May 12, 2015, 6:00-9:00 PM

This event is part of our inaugural Innovation Series that is comprised of panel discussions with biotech and technology industry’s most successful entrepreneurs and innovators on how they have created, nurtured, and inspired “Innovation Throughout the Company’s Life Cycle.” Panelists will discuss their first-hand experience in developing employee careers and advancing more talented women into senior positions.  

The CEO panel will discuss what motivated them to be CEOs, share early leadership lessons, competencies for success as well their experiences in building start-up companies. They will also discuss their leadership styles and how they build and develop their teams.

Please come to network with other movers and shakers in the science and technology community and be inspired while enjoying appetizers, wine, and dessert. 

Panelists: 

Amy Schulman, CEO, Arsia Therapeutics
Katrine Bosley, CEO, Editas Medicine
Nancy Simonian, CEO, Syros Pharmaceuticals

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STRENGTH TO LEAD
April 30, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM 

As a businessperson today, you are likely pulled in many directions, with not enough time in the day and a myriad of competing priorities. As stress increases from travel, lack of sleep, work and family demands, chemicals in your body automatically jump into action. The result is less than peak performance, trouble focusing and the risk of burnout. A simple exercise program changes the game completely, putting you back in control of your work and your life. Strength to Lead is a unique program for executives, managers, sales professionals, and business leaders who deal with high volume work and high stress on a regular basis. The program guides you through a proven methodology to combat stress efficiently and effectively. Designed over 23 years of direct work with CEO’s and business leaders, Strength to Lead is built with you in mind; the process is clear, concise and effective. The result is a strong body, strong mind and increased resilience, drive and stamina. The program facilitator is Exercise Physiologist Steve Satin.

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A CONVERSATION ABOUT THE POLITICS OF PROMOTION WITH BONNIE MARCUS
April 23, 2015, 6:30-8:30 PM 

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Bonnie Marcus about her book The Politics of Promotion: How High-Achieving Women Get Ahead and Stay Ahead. The evening will start with networking and continue on with a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session. The discussion will be moderated by Sandra Glucksmann, Chief Operating Officer at Editas Medicine and WEST Board Chair. 

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MASTERING THE GIVE AND TAKE OF CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK
April 15, 2015, 6:00-9:00 PM

Good feedback is hard to come by. Often, people shy away from offering honest, constructive feedback, because they worry that the relationship will be damaged. Likewise, people often shy away from asking for feedback, for fear of what they may hear. If we only have our own perceptions to go on, our blind spots will keep us from developing to our full potential. And when we withhold important performance information from others, we keep ourselves comfortable at the cost of their development. Come to this interactive workshop by Ali Farquhar to learn about why it is hard to both give and get feedback, and develop some skills that will make it easier.

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ENTREPRENEURIAL WEBINAR SERIES - FUNDING A START-UP
April 7, 2015, 12:00-1:00 PM

Are you interested in starting a company – or joining a start-up? WEST's three part webinar will review the factors you need to consider before you make the leap into a start-up. This second webinar lead by Brian LaCroix of Jameson & Company and Bonnie Fendrock of Cyta Therapeutics, Inc. will discuss the nuts and bolts part of what you do to "follow the money" once you get it both with dilutive or non-dilutive funding. Bonnie will cover who has the money, why they invest, and things to cover.  Brian will cover compliance, managing the funds, setting up accounting, and preparing for audits. 

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INDEPENDENT CONSULTING - GET OFF THE EMPLOYMENT MERRY GO ROUND AND WORK FOR YOURSELF
March 26, 2015, 6:00-8:00 PM

It's often said that it takes a special kind of person to work for themselves. Truth is, it takes a special kind of person to work for someone else: an ability to confirm to a rigid schedule, meet the expectations of others, and put our own desires on hold.

As an Independent Consultant, you work for yourself, set your own structure, your own hours, and your own work style. You prosper or perish because of what you do, not what someone else does. In this session on Independent Consulting, Jim Connell, the President of the Society of Independent Consultants, will review prerequisites, advantages, disadvantages, and resources for launching your career as a consultant.

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USING MINDFULNESS TO STAY SANE IN A STRESSFUL WORLD
March 10, 2015, 5:15-8:00 PM

In a hectic, volatile, complex, and uncertain world, being mindful is a challenge. Rather than experiencing the present, we tend either to dwell in the past, ruminating about the things we should have done, or in the future, worrying whether we will achieve the goals we think are necessary for our success and happiness. Meanwhile, in the present, we are endlessly stimulated by electronic devices, always-on social media, and a limitless supply of distractions that keep us from our priorities. Mindfulness may be just the remedy you've been looking for. Come and take a pause from the busyness and stress of your everyday lives; learn about the benefits of finding some calm within; and practice some mindfulness techniques that you can take home with you as your own personal antidote to stress. This workshop will be led by Alison (Ali) Farquhar, Principal of GTL Coaching & Consulting. 

Panelists will share examples and discuss:

  • How they balance work and personal life in ways that work for them.

  • How taking an intentional approach and paying attention to their values has improved their careers, relationships, and personal wellness.  

  • How they deal with stress and remain resilient in difficult times. 

  • How they manage to find a sense of calm and stay focused despite demanding roles and many potential distractions. 

  • How they don’t allow work to completely crowd out pursuits that bring them pleasure and happiness.

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ENTREPRENEURIAL WEBINAR SERIES - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
March 3, 2015, 12:00-1:00 PM

Are you interested in starting a company – or joining a start-up?

Whether you are working in a lab in a research institution or in a large company, the chances are that you may have thought about starting a company based on an idea that you have had – or joining a start-up that is being founded by some of your colleagues. This WEST three part webinar will review the factors you need to consider before you make the leap into a start-up. We will start with a review of Intellectual Property, including who is an inventor, what is patentable and how do you develop an IP strategy for a start-up company. Our next seminar will look at how you actually set-up your start-up – how do you actually incorporate? How do you develop your initial company pitch and how do you find resources including space? Our final webinar will consider funding, who has the money to invest in your start-up and how do you manage the funding once you have received it.

This first webinar lead by Hemmie Chang and Hathaway Pease Russell will focus on Intellectual Property including inventorship, patents/patentable subject matter, IP strategy for start-ups, and how to license the technology from an institution if that is where the technology was developed.

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A CONVERSATION ABOUT PERSONAL BRANDING AND MARKETING YOURSELF WITH RITA B. ALLEN 
February 26, 2015, 6:30-8:30 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Rita B. Allen about her book Personal Branding and Marketing Yourself: The "Three Ps" Marketing Technique as a Guide to Career Empowerment. The discussion will be moderated by Kaitlynn Malinowski Arvidson, Career Placement Manager of Graduate Programs at Regis College.

Whether you are seeking a new position, changing roles within an organization, or taking charge of your career planning, marketing yourself is the best way to seize these opportunities. Yet few of us are ready and able to talk about our talents, accomplishments, and the value we have to offer. In this engaging, timely, and informative book, acclaimed career and executive coach, trainer, and consultant Rita Balian Allen makes the case for personal branding as an essential ingredient for a successful career. For Rita and the many people who have sought her guidance, the Three Ps Marketing Technique has been the key: Preparation: Identify & Define Your Brand, Packaging: Create & Build Your Brand, Presentation: Enhance & Articulate Your Brand

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COMPANY GROWTH: THRIVING ON CHANGE 
February 19, 2015, 6:00-9:00 PM

Following a very popular and successful first event, this is the second event of ourinaugural Innovation Series that is comprised of panel discussions with biotech and technology industry’s most successful entrepreneurs and innovators on how they have created, nurtured, and inspired “Innovation Throughout the Company’s Life Cycle.” Panelists will discuss their first-hand experience in developing employee careers and advancing more talented women into senior positions. 

Hear from CEOs who have successfully grown and evolved their companies. These leaders and entrepreneurs will discuss their leadership styles, company growing pains, changing personal and organizational skills as well as managing setbacks and driving innovation. Panelists include: Deborah Dunsire, Chief Executive Officer, Forum Pharmaceutics, Tillman Gerngross, Chief Executive Officer of Adimab and David Schenkein, Chief Executive Officer of Agios.

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EFFECTIVE TRANSITION FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY
February 3, 2015, 6:00-8:30 PM

Join us for this annual event to hear lessons learned from a variety of individual experiences and to learn the critical skills necessary for a smooth and effective transition. Panelists include individuals that have successfully made the transition from academia as well as a an experienced recruiter who has managed these kinds of transitions. Panel discussion moderated by Sandra Glucksmann, Chief Operating Officer, Editas Medicine. Panelists include: Do Yun Lee, Morgan Maeder, Nivedita Namdev, Tracy Nicholson, Deepak Reyon 

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SEVENTH ANNUAL GIVING BACK AWARDS AND SILENT AUCTION
January 22, 2015, 6:00-9:00 PM

Please join WEST for our 7th Annual "Giving Back" Awards Ceremony, as we honor an extraordinary women that have made a profound societal impact. Join us to congratulate, inspire, learn, network, and support the advancement of women in the enterprise of science and technology careers! We will also honor WEST volunteers whose dedication and outreach efforts have helped WEST reach our strategic goals. Appetizers, wine, and dessert will be served.

Whether shopping for your family, friends, home, or office, there is something for everyone at this year's Silent Auction Fundraiser – a plethora of wonderful and interesting items and services for sale from generous donors around the region! Proceeds from the auction will benefit our WEST mission, programs and operations – to provide high quality and affordable educational content and development opportunities (workshops/events) for all women in STEM careers.

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2014

 

PERSONALITY STYLES AND COMMUNICATION USING DISC
December 11, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

This workshop focuses on developing greater self-awareness and stronger communication skills. The workshop is based on the DiSC Behavior Model, which groups behavioral responses into four clusters. This self-scoring behavioral learning instrument is a proven road map to interpersonal communications and teamwork. Prior to the workshop, you will complete the 10 minute online assessment. Kathy Ball-Toncic, CPCC will provide a background on different DiSC behavioral styles and help you understand and learn from your own profile. The workshop uses content and interactive exercises to help participants understand differences and how best to leverage their own style when dealing with others who may have a different style. There will be lots of practical and actionable strategies for communicating, influencing, and collaborating more effectively with colleagues, bosses or in work teams or even family and friends.

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COMPANY CULTURE: HOW TO RETAIN CREATIVITY AS THE COMPANY MATURES
December 4, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM 

WEST is delighted to announce our 2014-2015 a new series titled “Innovation Across the Company’s Life Cycle." This inspiring series will feature entrepreneurial executives from the biotech and technology sectors who will share their insights on creating and building companies. They will also discuss the importance of developing their employees’ careers throughout the company’s life cycle, and how to help advance more talented women into senior positions.  

In this panel discussion hear from CEOs who have taken innovative companies and grown them into successful entities while retaining a sense of entrepreneurship and innovation. These extraordinary role models will share their stories of creating a vibrant culture of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit as their company flourishes and advances successfully to a product stage company. Panelists: John Maraganore, CEO, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals; Adelene Perkins, CEO, Infinity Pharmaceuticals; and Abbie Celniker, CEO, Eleven Biotherapeutics. 

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CAREER POSSIBILITIES: SPEED NETWORKING NIGHT
November 18, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM

Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by women who used their science and technical training to advance their careers in different directions? Join us for WEST’s Annual Career Possibilities Event.  The evening will start with facilitated networking, so you can meet the other attendees and panelists. This will be followed by a panel discussion to learn more about each panelist and their key lessons learned. Then you will have the opportunity to break into small groups and talk with the different panelists.

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A POSITIVE MENTAL SHIFT: DEAL WITH WORRY AND ANXIETY SO THAT YOU CAN ENJOY YOUR CAREER AND LIFE
November 6, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM
 

If you are reading this, you likely care deeply about having a great career and life. But sometimes this care brings its "dark side" along for the ride: you feel anxious, worried, overwhelmed, or plain-old stressed out. These feelings eat at you on the inside and rob you from enjoying the very fruits of your labor. What a bum deal! In this interactive seminar, you will learn how and why your mind generates stressful feelings, and how to direct your thoughts and energy into pursuits that bring you more success and joy. This workshop will be led by Dr. Samantha Sutton of Samantha Sutton, Ph.D. Life Solutions.

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FIRESIDE CHAT WITH CAROLE SACINO
October 22, 2014, 6:30-8:30 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Carole Sacino about her book Build Your A-Game: Be Seen—Be Heard—Be Remembered.  The evening will start with networking and continue on with a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session. 

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HAVE MORE IMPACT IN LESS TIME
October 1, 2014, 6:00 - 8:30 PM

Discover how to have greater calm and clarity, be more valued, and free yourself from the web that pulls you in many directions at once. Join us in an interactive workshop that helps you harness the power of your inner leader to get the outer life you want. The workshop will be led by Christine Duvivier, MBA, MAPP.

What you come away with:

  • Learn to avoid the isolation, exhaustion and stress many leaders experience
  • Apply positive processes used by happy, energized, clear and connected leaders
  • Your positivity ratio: what it is, why it matters, and how to increase it
  • Where to focus your energy to get the multiplier effect that makes you more valued: the limits of time management, when positive thinking isn’t enough-- and what to do instead
  • Simple tools that engage employees and colleagues to achieve your desired results more easily, without sacrificing your life 

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WEST BOOK CLUB
September 2014 - March 2015, 6:30-8:30 PM

WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. We would like participants to commit to the four sessions to create a supportive community.  We will have a facilitator for each discussion group who will have read the book, so those who do not finish the whole book should still feel comfortable attending and joining in the conversation. We understand people get busy at certain times of the year and may not get to finish every book. This session's books include Being Strategic: Plan for Success; Out-think Your Competitors; Stay Ahead of Change by Erika Andersen, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain, and Stop Playing Safe: Rethink Risk. Unlock the Power of Courage. Achieve Outstanding Success by Margie Warrell. 

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AN EVENING WITH PAUL LEVY AND FARZANA MOHAMED
September 23, 2014, 6:30-8:30 PM

Join us for an evening with Paul Levy and Farzana Mohamed about their book How to Negotiate Your First Job. This will be an interactive conversation about how to navigate what is likely to be the first important negotiation many people transitioning to the world of work will face: Negotiating the terms and conditions of their employment. 

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BRIDGING THE GENDER GAP IN STEM: HELPING WOMEN THRIVE IN A TRADITIONALLY MALE DOMAIN
September 17, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

Certain sectors of STEM have proven challenging for women to break into and reaching the top tiers of management and leadership remains discouraging for women. Come and engage in an open conversation on how to craft a successful career as a woman in a predominantly male environment. A panel discussion with experienced managers and leaders aims to provide concrete tips and success strategies when forging a career as a significant gender minority. 

Our moderator will lead the panel in a spirited conversation organized around a number of case studies drawn from the WEST community that describe challenging situations that women sometimes encounter at work. Our panel will offer tips on how to handle delicate or difficult situations including gender bias, communication differences, influence, seemingly overt sexism, and other challenging issues.

Please come to network with other movers and shakers in the science and technology community and enjoy appetizers, wine, dessert, and coffee to round out an enjoyable and inspirational evening.

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HOW TO PRESENT YOURSELF IN AN INTERVIEW WEBINAR
August 26, 2014, 12:00-1:00 PM

Want to learn how to present yourself in the best way during an interview? Learn how to not only to approach companies and individuals of interest, but how to present yourself in the best, honest way in an interview. This program will be a blend of presentation and hands on experience so you leave with tools and confidence. Alice Koehn Benson will present and discuss strategies and approaches for having a positive productive interview. Alice brings over 25 years of experience in interviewing having spent 11 years in Human Resources and over 15 in executive search.

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BE YOUR BEST SELF, AND THE RESULT WILL FOLLOW WEBINAR
August 12, 2014, 12:00-1:00 PM

Have you ever heard the saying “the world is a mirror of yourself”? Take an inventory: are you 100% proud of who you are "being" in your daily life? If you aren’t, then this webinar is for you. Dr. Sutton will help you identify what you want to be known for in your workplace: is it integrity? Vision? Generosity? These traits make up your own unique personal brand of “super hero." Dr. Samantha Sutton will show you how to cultivate those traits in your life so that you can be your best self each day, and have that reflected back at you in the results you get.

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ANNUAL NETWORKING NIGHT - FIRST IMPRESSIONS

July 22, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM

WEST’s Annual Networking Night is great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. In keeping with our summer series theme of First Impressions, we will also have a group discussion and share some of our previous first impression lessons learned.  

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TAKE CONTROL OF HOW PEOPLE SEE YOU WEBINAR
July 15, 2014, 12:00-1:00 PM

How you present yourself matters. First impressions are based on a wide range of characteristics including age, culture, gender, physical appearance, facial expression, posture, and voice. First impressions can greatly affect how you are treated and viewed in many contexts of your everyday life. Therefore, you want to take control of the many of factors influencing how people see you. Sandra Glucksmann, Ph.D., will discuss tips for making great first impressions. Sandra brings 21 years of senior management and leadership experience in biotech.

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BUILDING RESILIENCE TO THRIVE IN A CHANGING WORLD
June 25, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM 

Our lives are challenging whether we work in the lab or in the office: we may face demanding assignments, difficult colleagues, insufficient time, perfectionism, resources constraints and conflicting demands.  In our personal lives we may wrestle with concern for our families, a difficult job search, poor health, or money trouble.  Most of us cope – but what does it take to move past mere coping, and actually thrive alongside our challenges?  Resilience is the key: it is both a characteristic and a buildable skill.  This interactive workshop will examine how we experience stress and offer strategies for thinking and acting with resilience.  Science and technology panelists will share examples of how resilience has improved their research, careers, and personal wellness.  Workshop Leader and Panelists: Gabriele Ganswindt, Founder of Shared Learning International, Sandra Glucksmann, Chief Operating Officer at Editas Medicine Inc, and Heather Bell, VP Program Management, IT/Operations at AstraZeneca.

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YOUR PERSONAL BRAND THE KEY TO CAREER MANAGEMENT
June 18, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM

Is there a secret to why some people have successful careers and others don’t? With so much buzz about personal branding, do you find yourself confused about what it really is? This workshop will demystify the process. Participants will learn what personal branding is (and isn’t) and why it’s important, gain clarity on their values, passions, talents and interests, understand how your personal brand differentiates you, and appreciate how to leverage your brand to successfully manage your career.  The workshop will be led by Susan Peppercorn of Positive Workplace Partners.

NEGOTIATING PAY & BENEFITS: A SCRIPT 
June 11, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM

Ann T. finally got an offer from her dream company and did not want to jeopardize it yet she knew she needed to play the entire hiring game and negotiate her pay. She was happy she did. With the knowledge she gained from my coaching she negotiated a salary package 15% higher than the initial offer. People who negotiate pay can earn an extra million dollars in their career. Women are hearing this message and know they should negotiate. Women are hearing about all the tactics and strategies they should use when negotiating. Women are not hearing the answers to a very common concern. What do I say? This presentation answers that concern with scripts for the most common of situations in the manner of negotiation most comfortable and successful for women, the collaborative approach. Learn what to say to: start the negotiation, promote accomplishments without bragging, and if the manager says no. Throughout the session, you will gain some insights into what management is thinking during the process. This workshop will be led by Katie Donovan of Equal Pay Negotiations.

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WOMEN, INNOVATION, AND DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES
June 9, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

WEST is hosting a panel of C-Suite women at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard for an event called: "Women, Innovation, & Disruptive Technologies."  Wendy Cebula, COO of EdX, Anna Protopapas, President at Takeda/Millennium and Deb Theobold, CEO at Vecna Technologies, Inc. will discuss innovation, disruptive technologies, and the role that women can play in enabling innovation and change.

Please come and enjoy a warm welcome, collegial networking, as well as appetizers, wine, dessert and coffee to round out an enjoyable and inspirational evening. Join the festivities and meet these talented innovators who have achieved success. Be moved and inspired by the stories and lessons learned by these exceptional women. Network with the movers and shakers in the science and technology community. 

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TRAIN YOUR BRAIN TO WORK FOR YOUR GOALS INSTEAD OF AGAINST THEM 
June 4, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM

With all of the excellent tips and tactics you have learned in seminars (like these!) and read on the web, you likely know what you need to do to have a great career and life: Ask for what I want. Network. Figure out my brand. Make time for myself. Exercise more. Say ‘NO.’

And yet, many of us still feel stuck. The reason is that we are not logical beings, but rather, human ones. Our minds are complicated, emotional, associative places that produce staggering works of genius and also staggering amounts of self-sabotage. In this seminar, you will learn how to use your most precious asset, your brain, to work FOR your goals instead of AGAINST them. You will understand the neurological processes underlying your daily decisions, stressors, and thoughts, and how to leverage them in more constructive ways. You will leave with a set of “exercises” to train your brain to be a lean, mean, dream-getting machine. This workshop will be led by Dr. Samantha Sutton of Samantha Sutton, Ph.D. Life Solutions.

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USING MINDFULNESS TO STAY SANE IN A STRESSFUL WORLD
May 29, 2014, 6:00-8:30 PM

In a hectic, volatile, complex, and uncertain world, being mindful is a challenge. Rather than experiencing the present, we tend either to dwell in the past, ruminating about the things we should have done, or in the future, worrying whether we will achieve the goals we think are necessary for our success and happiness. Meanwhile, in the present, we are endlessly stimulated by electronic devices, always-on social media, and a limitless supply of distractions that keep us from our priorities. Mindfulness may be just the remedy you've been looking for. Come and take a pause from the busyness and stress of your everyday lives; learn about the benefits of finding some calm within; and practice some mindfulness techniques that you can take home with you as your own personal antidote to stress. This workshop will be led by Alison (Ali) Farquhar, Principal of GTL Coaching & Consulting. 

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A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH JOHN BUTMAN
April 10, 2014, 6:00-8:00 PM
 

Join us for a Fireside Chat with John Butman about his book BREAKING OUT: How to Build Influence in a World of Competing IdeasThe evening will start with networking and continue on with a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session. The discussion will be moderated by Alison (Ali) Farquhar, Principal of GTL Coaching & Consulting.

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A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH BETSY MYERS
April 3, 2014, 6:30-8:30 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Betsy Myers about her book Take the Lead: Motivate, Inspire, and Bring Out the Best in Yourself and Everyone Around You. The evening will start with networking and continue on with a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session. The discussion will be moderated by Debbie Dean, Vice President at Dassault Systèmes.

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INFLUENCING WITHOUT AUTHORITY
March 18, 2014, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Everyone needs to be able to influence. In some situations we do pretty well, but we all have situations that we walk away from thinking that we really didn’t feel heard. We often blame the other person for not listening. However, all relationships are 50-50. We each share equal responsibility for speaking and listening. Sometimes, in difficult situations though, our emotions can get in the way of us being effective. The Positive Power and Influence Programs gives you options. Sherri Malouf, President and Master Trainer of Situation Management System, Inc., developers of the Positive Power and Influence Program, will be leading the engaging, fun, and experiential learning session on Influencing without Authority. 

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THE ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET AND RESILIENCY
March 11, 2014, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Resilience seems to be the new catch phrase. People and cities are touted as resilient. But what does it really mean to be resilient? And how does one get resilient?  Is it a genetic dice roll? Or is it learnable? The answer is both. The field of resiliency has a long history of psychological research and much is known that can help us in our day-to-day struggles.  Eleanor Chin will shed light on some of the psychological and emotional concepts that make up what we call resilience and share some strategies for learning to be more psychologically hardy in the face of adversity. Eleanor has studied with Martin Seligman (Learned Optimism) and Karen Reivich (The Resilience Factor) and has taught in University of Pennsylvania’s program to teach resiliency to the US Army.  Over 12,000 soldiers have learned to be more resilient and we can too.

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MASTERING TIME
March 6, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

Your relationship with time is one of the most important relationships in your life. Ending the struggle with time leaves you free, happy and productive. In this seminar, you will learn the basics of relating powerfully to time. You will discover the solution to procrastination, overwhelm and ineffectiveness. You will learn how to organize yourself, plan brilliantly and most importantly, feel more joy and success in both your everyday activities and your most heart-felt endeavors. This workshop will be led by Laurie Gerber, Handel Group Life Coaching. 

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THE INVESTOR'S PERSPECTIVE
March 4, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

What do investors look for in deciding about strategic investments? What strategies and communication tactics work best when presenting to potential investors? What are the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make when seeking funding? How is corporate investing for internal “new ventures” different from investing in start-ups? Come and learn from three industry veterans with perspectives from corporate, venture capital and angel investing. Whether you are currently seeking funding or just want to understand the process of securing capital to launch and grow new ventures… you’ll find this panel discussion on financing entrepreneurship informative and stimulating. Come for a lively discussion and networking with other entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and supporters of innovation in science and technology. Panel Discussion and Networking with the following women: Dr. Lauren Silverman, Jean Hammond, and Jean George.

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COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATION
February 21, 2014, 5:30-7:30 PM

Enjoy networking and the artwork at Doffie Project and keep in mind 80% of the proceeds from art sales will benefit WESTArt in Giving, and Get KonnectedSpecial guests include Boston Globe Columnist, Derrick Jackson and Journalist/ Photographer, David Arnold. 

 

A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH JODI DETJEN
February 11, 2014, 6:30-9:00 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Jodi Detjen about her book The Orange Line - A Women's Guide to Integrating Career, Family and Life. The evening will start with networking and continue on with a conversation with the author followed by a question and answer session and a related exercise.  The discussion will be moderated by Debbie Dean, Vice President, DS Americas General Counsel, Legal Department. The Orange Line™ provides a radically different insight into why women intentionally and subconsciously hold themselves and each other back. The Orange Line discussion emerges from interviews cataloging the anecdotes, successes and career experiences of 118 college-educated women from across the US. These interviews illuminate a pattern where women adhere to outdated ideals and rules of how to act, defining the idealized woman. Jodi will show how these rules can be reframed, thereby enabling women to successfully integrate their career and life. Finally, we can have it all.

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EFFECTIVE TRANSITION FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY
February 6, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

Learn the critical skills necessary for a smooth and effective transition from academia to industry.

Join us for this annual event to hear lessons learned from a variety of individual experiences.  

Panel discussion moderated by Lauren Celano, Founder and CEO of Propel Careers.  Panelist include: 

 - Andrea Habura, Ph.D., R&D Scientist, Next Advance, Inc 

 - Mary Rose Scozzafava, Ph.D., Partner, WilmerHale 

 - Susan Ward, Ph.D., Executive Advisor to Life Science Companies 

 - Alison M. O'Neill, MD, Senior Medical Director, Sanofi Oncology

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BUILDING INDIVIDUAL AND TEAM LEADERSHIP - UNLEASHING POTENTIAL AT ALL LEVELS
January 23, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

What makes a good leader?  The age old question – are leaders born or made?  The fact is leaders are found everywhere and at every level of an organization.  Leadership competencies and capabilities can be developed and achieved by all.  The focus of this discussion will include identifying practices, principles and behaviors that result in effective individual and team leadership creating an environment of trust and ultimately collaboration.  This will be an interactive dialogue where participants will be introduced to methodologies and processes that are essential aspects of team leadership including competency development and planning, action learning, coaching and mentoring.  This workshop will be lead by Rita Balian Allen.  She is President of Rita B. Allen Associates, a provider of career management consulting and coaching services for individuals and organizations representing a variety of industries including high technology, biotechnology, medical devices/pharmaceuticals, higher education, healthcare and retail/consumer products.  

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GET ON BOARD: INSIDE THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
January 22, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM

If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including the combinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards. Panel Discussion and Networking with the following women: D’Anne Hurd, Alison Lawton, Ellen Richstone, and Sophie Vandebroek 

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WEST BOOK CLUB
January - July 2014 

WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. Meeting over four sessions help to create a supportive community. We will have a facilitator for each discussion group who will have read the book, so those who do not finish the whole book should still feel comfortable attending and joining in the conversation. We understand people get busy at certain times of the year and may not get to finish every book. We have selected the first three books based on member suggestions. The last book will be selected based on the group's discussions and interests as the book club meets.

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM 

Location: Dassault Systèmes, 175 Wyman Street, Water Building, Waltham, MA 02451

Cost: Members: $50; Book Club and Annual Membership: $135

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SIXTH ANNUAL GIVING BACK AWARDS
January 8, 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM
 

Please join WEST for our 6th Annual "Giving Back" Awards Ceremony, as we honor an extraordinary woman that has made a profound societal impact. This year's awardee is Paula Apsell. Paula is Senior Executive Producer for NOVA and NOVA SCIENCENOW and Director of WGBH Science Unit. We are also awarding WEST volunteers for their outstanding work in helping WEST reach our strategic goals. Join us to congratulate, inspire, learn, network, and support the advancement of women in science and technology careers! Appetizers, wine, dessert, and coffee will be served.
 

Whether shopping for your family, friends, home, or office, there is something for everyone at this year's Silent Auction Fundraiser - a plethora of wonderful and interesting items and services for sale from generous donors around the region! Proceeds from the auction will benefit our WEST mission, programs, and operations - to provide high quality and affordable educational content and development opportunities (workshops/events) for all women in STEM careers.

2013
 

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH MARJAN KAMALI
December 12, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM

Join us for a Fireside Chat with Marjan Kamali about her book Together Tea.  Perfect for a mother-daughter outing or an evening of interesting socializing.  The evening will start with networking and continue on with a conservation and reading by the author followed by a question and answer session.  The discussion will be moderated by Deborah Smith, Enterprise & Partner Group Sales Manager at Microsoft Corporation and WEST Board member.

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CAREER POSSIBILITIES: SPEED NETWORKING NIGHT
December 10, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM 

Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by women who have grown their science and technology careers in different directions?  Then join us for WEST's annual career possibilities panel discussion and speed networking night!  Panelists include: Jane Amara, Michaela Levin, Deborah Palestrant, Erika Reynoso, Alice Rushforth, and Sandra Glucksmann.  

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AWAKEN THE SLEEPING GIANT: 5 DRIVERS OF INNOVATION IN ANY ENVIRONMENT
November 19, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM

Any firm, no matter how large or small, whether it’s been around for 100 years or 10 years, needs to think about how to get to what’s next.  You don’t have to be Steve Jobs to have the next great idea or create the next great product.  What you need is a culture with the five key drivers that spark innovation and take those ideas to reality.  This engaging, interactive session explores the five key drivers of innovation in any environment and shows you how to use that business event we all hate – meetings – to drive innovation.  In this session, participants will learn: The big and small ideas that create innovation, the five drivers of innovation that any company can build into their culture, and how to format meetings for innovation conversations. Edith Onderick-Harvey is a Consultant, Speaker, and Internationally Recognized Leadership and Talent Development Expert will lead this workshop.

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A CONVERSATION WITH DEBORAH DUNSIRE
November 5, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM

Join with us for a conversation with Deborah Dunsire, President and CEO Envivo Pharmaceuticals.  Learn about the opportunities and challenges of translating science into business and network with a great group.  The event is part of ongoing effort to bring WEST programs to the Route 128/Waltham area and is being carried out jointly with Bentley University’s Center for the Integration of Science and Industry and the Center for Women and Business. 

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BUILDING A STRATEGIC NETWORK
November 4, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM

Objectives: Participants will leave the workshop with:

  -  A clear strategic vision for their next networking experience.

  -  A set of tactics that align with and support this vision.

  -  A list of steps they can take to better engage new network contacts – online and offline.

6:00-6:10pm: Registration and light dinner

6:10-6:40pm: Facilitated introductions and building your brand by practicing your pitch

6:40-7:40pm: Training on developing your own strategic vision for your network

7:40-8:40pm: Senior women panel discussion on the value of networking and their stories

8:40-9:00pm: Networking

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ESCAPE CAREER QUICKSAND: TIPS TO GET UNSTUCK AND CATAPULT YOUR CAREER

October 24, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM

Do you feel stuck and invisible in the organization no matter how hard you work? You see others getting promoted and you don't understand why you're not getting ahead. Once you are stuck in career quicksand, it is unlikely that you will get out unless you are savvy and can think strategically about the best way out. The harder you work, the more it works against you and this goes against everything we've been taught about how to succeed. This workshop will be lead by Bonnie Marcus. Award winning entrepreneur and Forbes contributing writer, Bonnie Marcus, M.Ed., has real conversations for real women about real situations in the workplace today. 

In this workshop, you will receive an escape kit to catapult your career upward and you will discover:

- The common reasons women get stuck in career quicksand.

- How to avoid the pitfalls that keep you from propelling your career forward.

- The tools to promote and position yourself for career success.

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THE MANAGER'S MAGIC POTION
October 10, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM
 
Almost as easy as waving a magic wand, this practice will save you time, develop staff and increase innovation.  As if that weren't enough, with these five easy inquiries you will more easily delegate, manage performance and reward your stars.  In short, you will run a more productive and motivated organization. What is the Magic Potion? This workshop will be lead by Julie Lynch, Principal of Uncommon Consulting. She is an expert in motivation, management and meaningful work and brings 20 years of experience in executive and management development, organizational effectiveness and HR leadership roles. 
 

Five simple inquiries - translated into your own words – that can help you:

·      Identify and motivate your star employees

·      Identify performance problems

·      Delegate more effectively

·      Develop your staff

·      Save loads of time

·      Make you a tremendously better manager

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DESIGN STRONG RELATIONSHIPS
September 24, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM

When an individual’s life is “working well,” it means that their relationships are likely thriving. When life isn't working well, there are probably relationships that could use fixing. Strong relationships are built on clear communication, a commitment to a shared vision and a willingness to face the truth together. In this seminar, we explore how participants relate to others in their lives: significant others, family, friends, coworkers or community members. We teach participants how to design thriving relationships by identifying relationship issues and addressing those issues. We show participants how to speak with compassion and still deliver a straight message. By using our techniques, participants learn how to work through hurt feelings, mistakes and resolve conflicts so that their relationships become a source of joy. This workshop will be lead by Dr. Samantha Sutton. Samantha earned a Ph.D. in Biological Engineering at MIT, and then decided that she wanted help advance science and technology by helping the scientists and technologists themselves  

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PERSONALITY STYLES AND COMMUNICATION USING DISC
September 19, 2013, 6:00-9:00 PM
 

This workshop focuses on developing greater self-awareness and stronger people skills. This DiSC workshop begins with a short but powerful assessment based on the DiSC Dimensions of Behavior Model, which groups behavioral responses into four clusters. This self-scoring behavioral learning instrument is a proven road map to interpersonal communications and teamwork. Then Kathy Ball-Toncic, CPCC will provide a background on different DiSC facets and help you self-assess your own profile. The workshop uses content and interactive exercises to help participants understand difference and how best to leverage their own style when dealing with others who may have a different profile to their own. There will be lots of practical and actionable strategies for communicating, influencing, and collaborating more effectively.

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WEST BOOK CLUB
September 2013 - July 2014, 6:00-9:00 PM
 
WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. We would like participants to commit to a full year to create a supportive community. We will have a facilitator for each discussion group.  Sign ups will be limited to keep the discussion groups at a nice size.

 
WOMEN'S NIGHT AT THE VENTURE CAFE
August 8, 2013, 5:00 - 8:00 PM 
 

WESTXX in HealthVenture Café, and mosaicHUB invite you to a special 'Women's Night' at the Venture Café with fun, food, drinks, and featured panels/breakout sessions. The Venture Café was created to provide a resource for the Boston entrepreneurial and innovation communities. The mission is to enable fresh and useful conversations. The Venture Café serves as a nexus for helping innovators and entrepreneurs find one another and collaborate to bring their dreams to reality. The shared physical spaces provide common meeting ground and a forum for semi-serendipitous encounters that often foster brainstorming and drive creativity. Networking and Information Tables with XX in Health, WITI Boston, and WEST.

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CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION AND UNDERSTANDING WITH FACILITATED NETWORKING
July 16, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Members of WEST come from a wide variety of countries and cultures. Come and celebrate our rich diversity, learn more about cross-cultural communication, and enjoy facilitated networking under the guidance of Communications Specialist and WEST Board Member, Tom Kennedy.

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INTEGRATING OFFLINE & ONLINE TACTICS TO BUILD A POWERFUL, STRATEGIC NETWORK
June 27, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Digital networking has reached critical mass and the proliferation of mobile devices is only fueling the trend. Networking as we know it is changing radically as just-in-time access (to data, people, resources, information) becomes critical to maintaining career relevance. Going to “offline” networking events is a start, but it’s not going to get you where you need to be long-term. Having a cohesive plan for fortifying your face-to-face efforts with digital touch points gives you an edge over others who do not. Join us for an interactive session where we will help you identify the key elements you need to creating the network that supports your professional ambitions today and in the future. Mari Anne Snow is CEO and founder of SophiaThink Consulting, a digital strategy company based in Boston, MA.

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STRATEGIC VERSUS TACTICAL THINKING

June 20, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

The terms strategy and tactics are often confused: tactics are the means used to accomplish an objective, while strategy is the overall plan within a broader context. As technical experts, we are often trained and rewarded for getting things done – highly focused on the tactical aspects without having a clear understanding of the overall strategy.  Strategic thinking involves long term planning, determining priorities, and identifying potential risks and opportunities. In addition, strategic thinking becomes increasingly important in the higher levels of an organization.  During this workshop you will learn how to increase the value you bring to an organization by focusing your efforts on long-term impact activities, in addition to short-range implementation. This interactive workshop will also enable participants to learn the theory and fundamentals of strategic thinking, and gain tools and practice to implement these skills in your current position.  This workshop will be lead by Gwen Acton, PhD who is CEO of Vivo Group.

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INSIGHTS INTO PERSONAL EFFECTIVENESS
June 13, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

"Insights into Personal Effectiveness” will enable participants to recognize how their key constituents perceive them and the work they are doing. Participants will understand how their own behavioral tendencies and preferences are perceived in the workplace. Participants will learn to make any needed adaptations to increase the effectiveness of their communication and leadership efforts. Additionally, participants will learn to comprehend the preferred communication and interactive styles of others by understanding behavioral cues. With over 20 years of experience in the role of Senior Human Resources Leader, Maura Snow, has helped technical professionals improve their interaction and leadership skills in a variety of industries.

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UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MENTORING/COACHING/SPONSORSHIP AND HOW TO FIND INDIVIDUALS TO SUPPORT YOUR CAREER
June 6, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Learn the difference between mentoring, coaching and sponsorship and how each of these three activities are important for your talent and career development.  Coaches and mentors can help you gain the skills and confidence to advance your career. Sponsors actively champion your career advancement both within and outside on your work environment. The workshop will not only discuss the importance of mentoring, coaching and sponsorship but also teach you how to go about finding people that can play these roles. This workshop will be lead by Sandra Glucksmann, WEST Board Chair and SVP of Research and Development at Cerulean Pharma.

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SIXTH ANNUAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS

June 3, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

You are invited to the sixth annual Women Entrepreneurs in Science and Technology Leadership Awards celebrating women who have demonstrated notable entrepreneurial leadership in science and technology. Join the festivities and meet the honorees who are talented innovators who have achieved entrepreneurial success either within larger organizations, or in starting their own companies. 

Be moved and inspired by the stories these exceptional women share, network with the movers and shakers in the Science and Technology community. You will not want to miss this remarkable event.

Appetizers, wine, dessert, and coffee will be served.

Honorees: Michele Flynn, Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer, Whippers

                  Naomi Fried, Chief Innovation Officer, Children's Hospital

                  Marilyn Matz, CEO and Co-Founder, Paradigm4

                  Lynne Wilson, CEO of the 3DVIA Brand, Dassault Systemes

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ADVANCED COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND PRESENTATION COACHING 
May 23, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Strong communication skills will help you create good and lasting impressions on others. Some individuals are naturally good at interpersonal communication while others develop their skills overtime through practice. Come and learn how to develop strong communication skills that will help you be effective and allow you to adapt your own communication style with difference individuals and audiences.  Most senior managers and leaders agree that effective communication and presentation skills make a definitive difference in growing your career and being promoted into challenging roles. In this interactive workshop led by Tom Kennedy, Former WBZ News Anchor and CEO Communications Coach, you will engage in advanced tools for effective communication that will enable you to boost your success in your career and in business. You will also learn presentation skills such as knowing your audience and focusing your message.  Participants will be video taped giving a short presentation, which they will receive feedback on.

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LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES FOR ADVANCING YOUR CAREER IN SCIENCE
May 14, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Sandra Glucksmann, WEST Board Chair and SVP of Research and Development at Cerulean Pharma, will share stories of her career challenges and success. She will discuss how to best apply your scientific and analytical abilities to develop influence and negotiation skills. Sandra will share her learning experiences as she transitioned from bench scientist to manager, and from manager to executive in both small and large company settings. She will touch on the following topics: Understanding the difference between leadership and management, leadership abilities and competencies, leadership styles, female leadership styles, and practical tools for leadership (communication, negotiation, leading effective teams, and leadership without authority).

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DESIGN YOUR LIFE
April 30, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

A workshop by Dr. Samantha Sutton of The Handel Group. Whether you are looking to build stronger relationships at home or at work, get past overwhelm and procrastination to become a master in time design, or take the next step in your career, this workshop introduces you to tools that will help you get there. Samantha will show you how to dig deep to articulate what you truly want in your life, and how to replace limiting thoughts, excuses, and beliefs with new ones that are beneficial. You will pick one area of life that you most want to impact, and create a plan-of-attack for moving forward toward your dreams in that area.  The workshop offers practical tools and step-by-step methods, including structured dialogue, self-analysis, writing exercises and live coaching.

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THE KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PROJECT MANAGEMENT
April 22, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Project Management can be seen as a set of technical tools to manage people, resources, and time in a structured way to accomplish a given objective. It is true that there are useful PM tools and some of those will be touched on in this workshop. However, the main differentiator between a well managed project and a poorly managed one, is the style and approach of the Project Manager. Skills such as influence, change management, resolving conflict, foreseeing and avoiding bottlenecks (human or otherwise), problem solving, and maintaining energy towards the ultimate goal are all leadership capacities that the savvy Project Manager uses to her advantage. Come and learn some lessons from a seasoned and successful Project Manager, Susan RogersProject Consultant at Fresenius Medical Care.

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GIVING AND RECEIVING FEEDBACK
April 2, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM
 

Good feedback is hard to come by. Often, people shy away from offering honest, constructive feedback, because they worry that the relationship will be damaged. Likewise, people often shy away from asking for feedback, for fear of what they may hear. If we only have our own perceptions to go on, our blind spots will keep us from developing to our full potential. And when we withhold important performance information from others, we keep ourselves comfortable at the cost of their development. Come to this interactive workshop lead by Ali Farquhar to learn about why it is hard to both give and get feedback, and develop some skills that will make it easier. 

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INTERVIEWING AND RESUME WRITING
March 27, 20136:00 - 9:00 PM

Starting a job search can be a daunting process no matter where you are in your career.  There is a lot of competition for jobs and companies want to hire the absolute best.  So how do you ensure you are one of the lucky ones that get to interview for the job you want?  First, you start with telling your story through your resume.  You’re heard the horror stories about that recruiter who only looks at your resume for a matter of seconds and if you don’t have “what they’re looking for” they move on.  Take heart, this isn’t true of all HR departments and hiring managers.  The goal is to target your job search, apply for jobs for which you are qualified, and then ensure your resume speaks to what the hiring manager is seeking.  In this workshop, we’ll talk about how to get noticed and how about those pesky cover letters?  Once you get an interview, we’ll talk about selling yourself to a stranger.  It’s about having a conversation and providing insight to who you are, what you’ve accomplished and how you can help a new company achieve its goals.  Your work starts long before you step foot in an interviewers office, so we’ll talk about researching a prospective employer, questions you should be prepared to ask and questions you need to ask.  Remember, you are interviewing a new employer just as much as they are interviewing you! Workshop run by Heather McGotty, Director of Human Resources at Welch's.

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JOURNEY TO THE TOP: LESSONS LEARNED ALONG THE WAY
March 26, 20136:00 - 9:00 PM

WEST is hosting a panel of C-Suite women at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard for an event called: "Journey to the Top: Lessons Learned Along the Way." Adelene Perkins, Deb Besemer, Kirk Arnold, and Joanna Horobin, four women who have defied the statistics to reach the top of their organizations, will share what they learned on their career journeys and offer advice to other women who would like to follow in their footsteps. This panel discussion will be moderated by Alice Koehn Benson, Executive Vice President at Coulter Partners.  Appetizers, wine, dessert, and coffee will be served.

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THE VALUE BUILDER
March 14, 20136:00 - 9:00 PM
 

Workshop run by Fredia Woolf, President of Woolf Consulting, Catalyzing Transformational Breakthroughs for Leaders and Teams.

Come and Learn the 5-V approach to building your own Value and Confidence as an Upcoming Leader

Value – how to identify, articulate and develop strengths, and re-vision your résumé

Values – how to recognize your personal bottom line, set boundaries, resolve internal conflicts, and make trade-offs

Vision – create an inspiring personal vision and clear the obstacles to putting it into action

Visibility – make strategic choices about where, when and how to be visible, and create an outreach strategy

Voice – develop confidence and “executive presence”, through more effective communication up, down and laterally, within your organization and outside of it.  

Women who gain clarity about and practice these five V's have an excellent basis for developing a strong personal brand and a strategic career path.

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ANATOMY OF A BLINDSIDE
February 13, 2013, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Workshop given by Bonnie Marcus, M.Ed, CEC, Certified Executive Coach, Forbes contributing writer 

The workplace is a highly politicized environment where key decisions about who gets ahead, who gets plum assignments, and who gets the scarce resources are not just decided on merit, but politics.

Everyone talks about the glass ceiling and how women need to knock on the glass ceiling to get ahead. What’s really going on is that there is a political power grid that holds women back, not a glass ceiling, and this power grid is so hidden and buried that women don’t even know it exists. And because they don’t know it exists, they can accidentally step on something and get blindsided.

During this presentation, attendees will learn:

  • How to map the power grid in their organization, identify the key stakeholders and rate their influence.
  • How to use promotion as a political skill for access to informal networks, information, and opportunities.
  • The three essential tools required to get ahead and stay ahead in today’s workplace.

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EFFECTIVE TRANSITION FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY
January 24, 2013,  6:00 - 9:00 PM
 

Learn the critical skills necessary for a smooth and effective transition from academia to industry.

Lessons learned from a variety of individual experiences.  Panelist to include:

  • Hila Epstein, Associate Director at Entrega
  • Paula Feinberg-Zadek, Field Application Scientist at GE Healthcare
  • Paulina Hill, Senior Associate at Polaris Venture Partners
  • Rachel Meyers, Vice President at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
  • Erika Reynoso, Senior Publications Specialist at Vertex Pharmaceuticals
  • Yelena Wetherill, Clinical Research Scientist at ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, Inc

Panel discussion moderated by Gwen Acton, former WEST President and President of Vivo Group. 

Article: From Academic Solos to Industrial Symphonies

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2012

 

WEST's 5th ANNUAL "GIVING BACK" AWARDS CEREMONY
December 4, 2012 Boston, MA 6:00 - 9:30 PM

Please join WEST for our 5th Annual "Giving Back" Awards Ceremony, as we honor three extraordinary women that have made a profound societal impact 

Toni Wolfman - Executive Advisor of the Center for Women and Business at Bentley University. See her bio, HERE.
Yvonne Spicer, Ed.D. - Vice President of Advocacy and Educational Partnerships at the National Center for Technological Literacy. See her bio, HERE.
Vanessa Kerry, MD, MSc - Associate Director of Partnerships and Global Initiatives and Director of MGH Global Health Service Corps Partnership at the Mass General Center for Global Health. See her bio, HERE

We will also honor WEST volunteers and interns.

Wine, Hors d'oeuvres, a three course meal  will be served.

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CAREER POSSIBILITIES: SPEED NETWORKING NIGHT
November 27, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by women who have grown their science and technology careers in different directions? 

Panel Discussion and Networking with the following women:

Renuka Babu, MBA - Director of New Ventures in the Office of Technology Development at Boston University
Diala Ezzedine, PhD - Chief Business Officer at X-Chem Pharmaceuticals 
Kelley Hill - Medical Writing Director at Shire Human Genetic Therapies
Jing L. Marantz, MD, PhD, MBA Vice President, Global Medical Affairs at Ariad Pharmaceuticals
Laura McNamee, PhD - Research Scholar at the Center for Integration of Science and Industry and Adjunct Professor at Bentley University   

Theresa O'Keefe, PhD - Chief Scientific Officer, Pharma Cycle Inc.

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INFLUENCING WITHOUT AUTHORITY
October 22, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Sherri Malouf, President and Master Trainer of Situation Management System, Inc., developers of the Positive Power and Influence Program, will be leading the engaging, fun and  experiential learning session "Influencing without Authority. 

Sherri is entrepreneurial, a  seasoned professional trainer and consultant with over thirty years experience. she is highly effective working with different levels of people in a variety of industries.  Sherri has delivered training programs and coached individuals in both the public and private sector in the areas of influence negotiation, leadership and team building.

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FALL NETWORKING EVENT
October 11, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Come and network! Learn about what WEST has in store for you this year.
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INFLUENCING WITHOUT AUTHORITY
October 10, 2012 Shrewsbury, MA 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Sherri Malouf, President and Master Trainer of Situation Management System, Inc., developers of the Positive Power and Influence Program, will be leading the engaging, fun and  experiential learning session "Influencing without Authority. 

Sherri is entrepreneurial, a  seasoned professional trainer and consultant with over thirty years experience. she is highly effective working with different levels of people in a variety of industries.  Sherri has delivered training programs and coached individuals in both the public and private sector in the areas of influence negotiation, leadership and team building.

During the session, you will:

  • Participate in an exercise to experience influence energy and learn more about the Situational Influence Model.
  • Practice the different ways to positively influence people.
  • Learn how to handle unproductive or stressful interactions.

In preparation for the meeting, please think about a challenging influence situation, as you will apply the influence styles to thinking through how to deal with this situation more effectively.
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WEST FALL EXECUTIVE WOMEN'S DINNER
October 3, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00 - 9:00 PM

WEST's first Women's Executive Dinner kicking off the season with a women CEO panel discussing the topic of Challenges facing women CEO's in the current economic climate.
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WEST’S TEN-MONTH LEADERSHIP AND PIPELINE DEVELOPMENT
September 19, 2012 and September 27, 2012 Waltham and Cambridge, MA 6:00 - 9:00 PM

The intention of this program is to develop women in their STEM careers as leaders so that they consistently make a difference in the organizations they serve and in the world.

Core to the program is that each participant collaboratively creates a ten-month impossible project that makes either a societal or organizational impact. The design, development, and implementation of an impossible project serves as a laboratory for learning leadership development.
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OVERCOMING IMMUNITY TO CHANGE
September 24, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00- 9:30 PM

Have you ever set yourself a goal that you really wanted and needed to reach but found yourself unable to make progress? Or perhaps you took a few positive steps only to slide frustratingly back to square one? Overcoming Immunity to Change provides a powerful methodology to help individuals and teams get “unstuck” and finally make lasting progress on goals that matter to them. It is a process that leads people to a clear understanding of why they do what they do, and how their underlying patterns of thinking keep them from progress even when they seem committed to action. Participants come to the Overcoming Immunity to Change workshop with a particular personal goal in mind and focus on that goal throughout the workshop. By the end of the process, they have a clear handle on how they get in their own way, and practical tools to help them step aside. The process can be used with individuals and with teams to achieve breakthrough change.

As a certified Immunity to Change Coach, Ali has guided many leaders to re-evaluate the outdated stories they tell themselves about what they must do to be successful, and to replace those stories with a new narrative that puts them on a whole new performance curve.

This program includes a three hour long session, as well as a half an hour of networking and food.
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END OF SEASON CELEBRATION NETWORKING EVENT
June 20, 2012 Cambridge, MA
 7:00pm-9:00pm

 

Come join WEST as we celebrate the end of our busy season with out community.

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PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR THE PART-TIME ALLIANCE MANAGER
June 13, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

Many in the biopharmaceutical / healthcare sectors have been made responsible for managing collaborations on behalf of their organizations, while maintaining other key responsibilities. What is the most effective way to manage these deals when you are also in another full-time role? What are the “must do” activities to keep your collaborations on track, versus those which might be “nice to have”? Come to this event to hear practical advice from local alliance leaders.

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KEY SUCCESS FACTORS FOR WOMEN IN STEM
June 7, 2012 Worcester, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

A discussion on research from Catalyst, the Anita Borg Institute, and Harvard Business School on the key success factors for women who want to succeed in their STEM careers. This will be led by WEST's Executive Director Ilene Fischer.
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AN EXECUTIVE WOMEN'S DINNER - THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF WOMEN ON BOARDS
June 6, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

Topic: The Economic Impact of Women on Boards 

With panelists:
Steve Grossman - Massachusetts State Treasurer. Bio click HERE
Stephanie Sonnebend - President of Sonesta Hotels and Founder of 2020 Women on Boards. Bio click HERE
Linda Whitlock - Lead Director on Cambridge Trust Board. Bio click HERE
Patricia Flynn - Trustee Professor of Economics and Management at Bentley University. Bio click HERE

The panel will be moderated by Kim Zeoli - Senior Partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP’s National Business Risk Advisory Practice. Bio click HERE
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TO MBA OR NOT MBA

May 30, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

 

At some point in their careers, many women in science and technology find themselves presented with this question:  Does it make sense for me to enroll in an MBA plan and, if so, when and under what circumstances? A panel of four very accomplished men and women, two of whom have MBA degrees and two of whom do not, will address the factors that you should take into account in making this decision and the alternative career paths that may be open to you with and without an MBA degree. The panel will be moderated by Bentley University’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. 

Non-MBA Panelists:
Sandra Glucksmann, Senior Vice President of Research and Business Operations at Cerulean Pharma. 
Read her bio HERE
Laura Raminis, Managing partner for Mercer's New England region. Read her bio HERE

MBA Panelist:
Colleen O'Keefe, Senior Level Global Technology Executive. Read her bio HERE 
Chris Bortlik, SharePoint Technologist Specialist at Microsoft. Read his bio HERE
Catherine Mitchell, Senior Director of Technology Services Group for the Enterprise Storage Division within IIP (Information & Infrastructure Products) at EMC Corporation. Read her bio HERE

Moderator:
Michael Paige will moderate the discussion. Read his bio HERE
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A TALE OF TWO INDUSTRIES: THE EMERGING ROLE OF ALLIANCE MANAGEMENT IN THE BIOPHARMA AND TECHNOLOGY SECTOR
May 22, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

This evening's event includes a Panel who will be addressing questions such as:

 

  • What is Alliance Management?
  • How did the practice evolve in the BioPharma and Tech sectors?
  • What is a Typical Week like in Alliance Management?
  • Tools of the Trade:  Governance, Frameworks, and Metrics
  • What are industry-specific differences in managing alliances?
  • Top Tips for Working in Collaborative Relationships
  • Career Pathways / Certifications

The group will then move to several smaller table groupings with Boston area Alliance Managers who will moderate and answer questions on the evening's topic and provide materials outlining key thoughts on the topic.
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WEST's LEADERSHIP AWARDS EVENT    (THIS EVENT SOLD OUT)
May 3, 2012 Cambridge, MA  6:00pm-9:00pm

It is our pleasure to invite you to WEST's fifth-annual Leadership Awards Event, our most exciting and engaging event of the year.

This year's Awardees are:

 

Ellen Zane- served as President and CEO  of Tufts Medical Center, serves as the Chairperson of the Massachusetts Hospital Association and a director at Parexel. See her bio HERE

Pam Reeve- Founder and CEO of Lightbridge (one of the first women CEO's of a tech firm), chair of the Commonwealth Institute board, Lead director American Tower and on other technology company boards. See her bio HERE

Leanna Caron- SVP and GM of Sanofis's Regenerative Medicine Business, WEST Advisory board member, Canadian and Olympic figure skating judge. See her bio HERE

Cynthia Gilbert- is a technologist and patent attorney who founded Hyperion Law in 2010, after a successful tenure at a prominent national law firm. Cynthia helps small– and medium– sized technology companies protect their key innovations with a comprehensive patent strategy. See her bio HERE

MORE INFO

 

 

BUILDING BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL PRESENCE USING SOCIAL MEDIA
April 24, 2012 Waltham, MA  6:00pm-9:00pm

A Panel discussion with experts on social media. Panelist:
Kathleen Buckley, Director of Marketing, Hollister, Inc. Read her Bio HERE
Kathy O'Reilly, Senior Director of Social Media Relations for Monster Worldwide. Read her Bio HERE
Chris Bortlik, SharePoint Technologist Specialist at Microsoft. Read his Bio HERE

Are you doing enough to build your personal profile and your business online? 
What are strategic ways to use social media tools?

Learn about the latest social media tools and how to use them to build real relationships with potential clients and referral sources. Communication strategies can help build business and increase your SEO (search engine optimization). Learn about how to find communities online to expand your reach for potential business. Each tool requires different communication techniques and a plan.

You will learn techniques and how to use the following Social Media Tools: LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and maximizing Timeline format, YouTube, Blogs

Also learn about:
    •    Online Communities
    •    Finding Press Opportunities
    •    How to communicate using these tools
    •    How to integrate all of these into your marketing materials
    •    Overview of SEO and measurement

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ARTICULATING YOUR VALUE: A VALUE BASED APPROACH TO RESUME WRITING, NETWORKING AND INTERVIEWING
April 18, 2012 Boston, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

Cissie Klavens will lead this practical and interactive program focused on your ability to understand and articulate your value as a critical factor in career success. Cissie has over 25 years of experience as an executive/career coach, search professional, and entrepreneur. She works in organizations and with individuals, encouraging her clients to be reflective and understand their value in the marketplace as a major factor in achieving their goals.
This program will present some innovative and useful ideas that you can integrate immediately in your own career management strategies.

 

  • How to understanding and articulate your distinctive value (your currency) in the marketplace
    How to adapt a VALUE based approach to:

        • Resume writing
        • Networking
        • Interviews

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MORE TIME FOR YOU NOW

Led by Alesia Latson, author of the book, More Time for Me – This program focuses on managing time so that create work life balance and have more time for yourself. It also trains you to be much more effective in your job.
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ADVANCED COMMUNICATION AND PRESENTATION SKILLS WORKSHOP
March 23, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

Many of you asked to take a deeper dive and receiving one-on-one coaching from Tom Kennedy.
This is your opportunity. This program is limited to the first 15 people that sign up.
It is a day long program. You will be videotaped and coached on your presentation and communication skills.

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BUILDING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND WORKSHOP 

March 6, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

 

West's Executive Director Ilene Fischer will lead this program that she developed when she worked with Management guru Tom Peters.
In this program you will:
Understanding branding and its importance in the fullest sense.
Understand your personal brand promise and how it contributes to the strategic direction of your team, organization, and your strategic partnership.
Design a personal brand strategy that increases your distinction and inspired performance.

MORE INFO

MORE TIME FOR ME
March 5, 2012 Waltham, MA
6:00pm-9:00pm
Led by Alesia Latson, author of the book, More Time for Me – This program focuses on managing time so that create work life balance and have more time for yourself. It also trains you to be much more effective in your job.
MORE INFO

 

 

EXECUTIVE WOMEN'S DINNER: LESSONS LEARNED - BARBARA LYNCH EVENT
WEST invites executive women who currently hold or have held positions of Director or above to attend

LESSONS LEARNED FROM A SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR
March 1, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
With James Beard Award winning Chef and owner of nine restaurants Barbara Lynch
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WEST VOLUNTEERING MEETING
February 23, 2012 Cambridge MA

Thank you for your interest and support of WEST by your interest in volunteering. We will be holding a WEST volunteer meeting on 2/23/12 from 6-8:30pm. We will serve a light dinner at the meeting.

The meeting will run from 6-8:30pm. We will have time for networking from 6-6:30pm. From 6:30-8pm we will offer you an overview of our volunteer program and discuss the details on what each volunteer job entails. We will ask you to fill out information about your talent, interest, and areas that you would like to develop so that we can decide the volunteer position that is best suited for you. We will discuss upcoming volunteer opportunities for you to participate in. From 8-8:30pm we will network and close the evening. This event is complimentary and acknowledgement of your willingness to support WEST through your volunteer efforts.
MORE INFO

 

 

MORE TIME FOR ME
February 22, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Led by Alesia Latson, author of the book, More Time for Me – This program focuses on managing time so that create work life balance and have more time for yourself. It also trains you to be much more effective in your job.
MORE INFO


PART 2 PROGRAM MANAGEMENT IN LIFE SCIENCES

Part 2 Workshop February 16, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00 PM - 9:00pm
Please join us for this exciting and participatory two-part series led by:
Emily Walsh, Ph.D.
Principal Consultant at Halloran Consulting Group, Inc. and Marie Keaveney, Ph.D. Experienced Program Manager

Learn the techniques and tools effective program managers use to:
    •    Align and organize teams
    •    Track projects
    •    Provide senior management visibility on project progress
Learn the tools from simple time-lines to responsibility matrices to strategies for financial planning. You will learn key techniques and ways to best implement them in order to ensure success for your project and pipeline.
MORE INFO

 

ADVANCED COMMUNICATION AND PRESENTATION SKILLS
February 9, 2012 Worcester, MA 6:00 - 9:00pm

You never get a second chance to make a first impression: Most executives agree that effective communication and presentation skills make a definitive difference in growing your career and being promoted into challenging roles.

 

In this interactive workshop led by Tom Kennedy, Former WBZ News Anchor and CEO Coach, you will engage in advanced tools for effective communication and presentation skills that will enable you to boost your success in your career and in business.
MORE INFO

 

PART 1 AND 2 PROGRAM MANAGEMENT IN LIFE SCIENCES
Part 1: WEBINAR February 2, 2012; Part 2 (upcoming): Program Management 201 February 16, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Please join us for this exciting and participatory two-part series led by: Emily Walsh, Ph.D. Principal Consultant at Halloran Consulting Group, Inc. and Marie Keaveney, Ph.D. Experienced Program Manager
Learn the techniques and tools effective program managers use to:

    Align and organize teams
    Track projects
    Provide senior management visibility on project progress

Learn the tools from simple time-lines to responsibility matrices to strategies for financial planning. You will learn key techniques and ways to best implement them in order to ensure success for your project and pipeli
ne.

MORE INFO

 

 

CAREER POSSIBILITIES: SPEED NETWORKING NIGHT

January 31, 2012 Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by women who have grown their science and technology careers in different directions?
Evening Career Mentors:
Mary Stack, Vice President of Finance at Cubist Pharmaceuticals.
Jagathi Gururajan, Director, Operations, RBM Technologies.
Patricia McGloin is a global marketing executive who is best known for her leadership in the areas of strategic positioning, branding, go-to-market planning and execution. Pat currently chairs the Marketing Committee for WEST.
Sandra Glucksmann, Ph.D., is currently Senior Vice President of Research and Business Operations at Cerulean Pharma and Chair for WEST Board of Directors.
Paulina Hill, Senior Associate at Polaris Venture Partners.
Karla Ferry, Global Account Director at TIBCO Software.Cambridge, MA
Ramani Varanasi, Biopharma Executive, Strategy & Business Development Consultant.
Cynthia Gilbert, Intell
ectual Property attorney.

MORE INFO

 

 

CAREER NAVIGATOR PROGRAM 

January 27, 2012 Kendall Square, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm (last Tuesday of each month for six months)

 

 

Find your optimal path to career success with the guidance of expert career experts from WEST. Our Career NavigatorTM Program will help you find the most fulfilling destinations to fit your industry career and life objectives in a series of six customized, small groups sessions made up of 15 WEST members.

 

Each session will be interactive, driven by the needs of the WEST-selected participants and guided by leading women in the science and technology community. Capture the power of the WEST network and find the smart way to energize and advance your career by demonstrating your commitment and drive to improve. Maximize your contributions on the industry career path you have chosen with the WEST community helping you at every critical turn.
MORE INFO 


BUILDING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND WORKSHOP 

January 17, 2012 Waltham, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

West's Executive Director Ilene Fischer will lead this program that she developed when she worked with Management guru Tom Peters.
In this program you will:
Understanding branding and its importance in the fullest sense.
Understand your personal brand promise and how it contributes to the strategic direction of your team, organization, and your strategic partnership.
Design a personal brand strategy that increases your distinction and inspired performance.
MORE INFO


WEST TOWN-HALL MEETING

January 11, 2012, Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

The WEST Executive Director and Board of Directors is offering this town-hall meeting to share the direction and vision for the organization and to answer any questions you may have about WEST's vision. This will also be a networking opportunity..

MORE INFO

 

2011

 

 

HOLIDAY PARTY: GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY AWARDS
Come Join The WEST 2011 Holiday Party Through Pictures! Here

December 13, Cambridge, MA  6:00pm-9:00pm
Be inspired by and celebrate women that give back to the community.
Join us as we honor:
Barbara Lynch, keynote speaker,James Beard award-winning chef (No. 9 Park, Menton, Sportello) and serial entrepreneur,
speaks about launching an initiative to cultivate healthy, sustainable eating habits at Boston’s at-risk schools
Microsoft’s Sara Spalding and her community relations team: offering event space to non-profit organizations and
supporting early stage start-ups and students in technology

Eliane Markoff, founder of Art in Giving, an organization promoting the fine arts to benefit her pediatric cancer research foundation
...and Noteworthy, Extraordinary WEST Volunteers
Participate in the Silent Auction to support WEST’s mission and community
  • Dinner for 10 prepared by chef Barbara Lynch and chef/owner
  • Ana Sortun, of Oleana
  • Tickets to the Boston Bruins and other Boston based events
  • Coaching in presentation skills by Tom Kennedy – former WBZ anchor
  • Golf packages, food & wine baskets and much more!
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN TECHNOLOGY - PANEL DISCUSSION
November 17, Boston, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
Join WEST as a panel of experts in Project Management in Technology share their valuable perspectives and strategies for success.
Please join our panelist: Tiffany Willis - Agile Coach with BigVisible Solutions transforms organizations through enterprise wide agile adoption and Elizabeth Gallant - Project Success Expert is currently responsible for leading regulatory, Sarbanes-Oxley and internal profitability reporting projects for State Street.

MORE INFO

 

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT IN LIFE SCIENCES
November 1, Boston, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

Two-part workshop led by: Emily Walsh, Ph.D. Principal Consultant at Halloran Consulting Group, Inc. and Marie Keaveney, Ph.D. Experienced Program Manager. Learn the tools from simple time-lines to responsibility matrices to strategies for financial planning. You will learn key techniques and ways to best implement them in order to ensure success for your project and pipeline.
MORE INFO


EXECUTIVE WOMEN'S DINNER
October 25, Boston, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
Ilene Lang, President & CEO of Catalyst, will be announcing Catalyst's latest research on Women in the Workplace. This event is open to executive women that are director level or above or if you are in transition, in your last job you were a director level or above. 

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COMMUNICATION WORKSHOP BY TOM KENNEDY 

October 13 and October 18 6:00pm - 9:00pm
A workshop led by Tom Kennedy, former WBZ news anchor and CEO Coach. You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Most executives agree that effective communication and presentation skills make a definitive difference in growing your career and being promoted into challenging roles. In this interactive workshop you will engage in advanced tools for effective communication and presentation skills that will enable you to boost your success in your career and in business. 
MORE INFO


INNOVATIVE TRENDS IN LIFE SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY

September 20, Boston, MA 6:30pm-9:30 pm
Continuing our theme of Innovation, Passion and Perseverance, WEST is presenting "Innovative Trends in Life Sciences and Technology" with speakers, Susan Windham Bannister, President and CEO of Massachusetts Life Science Center and Irene Greif, IBM Fellow and Director of the IBM Center for Social Software.  
MORE INFO

 
WEST - MASS LIFE SCIENCE CENTER'S FY2012 ACCELERATOR LOAN PROGRAM 
July 7, Cambridge, MA 4:00pm-5:30pm 
WEST is collaborating with Mass Life Sciences Center to bring you the FY2012 Accelerator Loan Program. The primary objective of the Accelerator Loan Program is to provide working capital to early stage life sciences companies that are in the process of further developing their science/technology and have not yet raised more than $7.5 million in equity financing. This is an information session about who is eligible for these loans and how to apply for them.
MORE INFO
 

WEST LEADERSHIP AWARDS EVENT
June 8,
Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
It is our pleasure to invite you to WEST's fourth-annual Leadership Awards Event, our most exciting and engaging event of the year. This is our opportunity to acknowledge women who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership in science and technology. Join us in honoring these talented women, who have achieved success either within larger organizations, or in starting their own companies. Be moved and inspired by the stories these exceptional women share, network with the movers and shakers in the Science and Technology community.

2010 WEST Leadership Awardees:

Jennifer Tour Chayes
- Distinguished Scientist and Managing Director of the Microsoft New England Research and Development (NERD) Center

Laura Fitton - CEO/Founder of www.oneforty.com
Joanna Horobin - CEO Syndax
Lydia Villa-Komaroff - Chief Science Officer Cytonome
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"WOMEN DON'T ASK": EFFECTIVE NEGOTIATION STRATEGY WORKSHOP
May 19, Cambridge, MA 5:30pm-9:00pm

Whether they want higher salaries, enhanced career opportunities, or more help at home, women are much less likely than men to ask for what they want. Women pay for this reluctance in every aspect of their lives-from under-utilization of their skills at work to strained relationships and health problems at home. They advance more slowly professionally and often fail to rise into positions for which they're well qualified-and where they have a lot to contribute. These are losses that women (and their employers) don't need to suffer. By mastering a few basic principles, planning carefully, and practicing, you can become an effective negotiator.
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'GET ON BOARD: INSIDE THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS'
April 7, Cambridge, MA 5:30pm-9:00pm
If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including the combinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards.
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VC & ANGEL INVESTOR PANEL DISCUSSION
March 10, Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
Both Angel Investors and venture capitalists (VCs) provide funding for early stage science and technology companies.  Our expert panel will discuss the similarities and differences between these two types of investors, what they are looking for in prospective companies, the best way to pitch an idea to a potential investor, and career opportunities related to investing in start-ups.
MORE INFO

 

JOB INTERVIEWS: THE ART & STRATEGY OF SUCCESS' WORKSHOP

February 17, Cambridge, MA 5:30pm-9:00pm

The gateways to career advancement are successful interviews. How do we investigate new, potentially interesting opportunities? In a challenging job market, how do we ensure that the impression we make during an interview will distinguish us from the rest?  Join us to learn valuable strategies that will help expand your reach as well as get you noticed and remembered by hiring managers.
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ALTERNATIVE CAREERS FOR SCIENTISTS AND ENGINEERS

February 10, Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

If you are exploring your options, leaving your job, or want to learn more about career choices, please join us for our annual Alternative Careers in Science and Technology event. Meet and network with an extensive panel of “One-Night Mentors” who have experience breaking into and thriving in careers outside of academia including: business development, patent law, consulting, communications, project management, financial services, and technology transfer.
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ANNUAL WEST HOLIDAY PARTY AND NETWORKING EVENT

January 20, Boston, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

This annual event celebrates Women, Entrepreneurs, Science and Technology. The energetic and festive occasion provides formal and informal networking opportunities with other WEST members, a chance to hear about exciting developments at WEST, entertainment, good food, and time to enjoy the party. We will also be acknowledging those who "Give Back" to others in science and technology.
MORE INFO




2010

  

'PROFESSIONAL TURBOCHARGE: ENTREPRENEURIALLY MANAGING YOUR CAREER AND LIFE'

December 8, Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm

Now is the time for thinking ahead to get ahead! Evaluate and boost your career for the new year! Take a proactive and strategic approach to what new directions and explorations you want to make next year in this special panel discussion and networking event.  
MORE INFO
  

'LAUNCHING STARTUPS'

Co-sponsored by Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

November 18, Boston, MA 6:00-8:30pm

Dr. Abigail Barrow, Founding Director of the Massachusetts Technology Transfer Center, will share insights on how startups get off the ground and find funding. She will also discuss the roles and opportunities available to engineers in emerging technology firms. In addition, she will review the resources supporting technological and scientific entrepreneurship in the state. 
MORE INFO


'IMPACT OF 'NEW MEDIA' ON SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY'

November 9, Cambridge, MA 6:00pm-9:00pm
Join a lively panel discussion about the how "new media" tools have far reaching impacts – beyond the obvious use of Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter – in today's competitive science and technology research and business environment. 
MORE INFO 

 

 

'ASSERTIVENESS AS ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT: STRATEGIES FOR TECHNICAL WOMEN' WORKSHOP

October 21, Cambridge, MA 5:30pm-9:00pm

This workshop will teach dynamic strategies and techniques to help you ramp up your confidence and effectiveness.  
MORE INFO   SOLD OUT!!

'MARKETING YOUR IDEAS (AND YOURSELF)' PANEL DISCUSSION
October 14, Cambridge, MA 
This panel discussion will address both "hard" and "soft" issues to better articulate and market your ideas (and your self) to achieve your professional goals. 
 MORE INFO

'COMMUNICATION STYLES' WORKSHOP
September 21, Cambridge, MA

Communication skills are ranked among the most useful in advancing careers, keeping a job, or finding new employment. This 3-hour participatory workshop will help you better understand your style to be more effective in your career in science, technology or any field. 

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'FALL KICKOFF PARTY'
September 14, Cambridge, MA
Join us at WEST's fall kickoff event and help us celebrate the organization's 10th anniversary! Everyone is welcome to attend.
 
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'SUMMER SKILLS SERIES' WORKSHOPS

June & July 2010

Summer is a great time to expand your skill set! This series consists of small, interactive 3+ hour workshops in which you will gain new expertise through participatory exercises and lectures. Designed specifically for those in the science and technology industries. You can sign up for just one workshop, several, or the whole series – there is an increasing discount the more workshops you sign up for. 

   DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION DURING CONFLICT

   NEGOTIATE FOR SUCCESS: OUTCOME DRIVEN DISCUSSIONS

   HERDING CATS: EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP IN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

   CREATING YOUR "BRAND" USING SOCIAL NETWORKING TECHNOLOGY

   NAVIGATING CHANGE: MANAGING PERSONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL TRANSITIONS

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WEST LEADERSHIP AWARDS CELEBRATION

June 9, 6:00pm-9:00pm Cambridge, MA

The third annual WEST celebration honored women who have been entrepreneurial – either by starting their own companies, or by taking risks and achieving success within larger companies. The awards were presented at an elegant evening party in Cambridge. MORE INFO 

NETWORKING WORKSHOP: LEARNING THE ART OF THE 'INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW'

April 28, 5:30pm-9:00pm Cambridge, MA

In a challenging job market, the most successful seekers are those that make the most effective use of their networks to find connections they did not know they had, uncover opportunities that may not even be posted and ensure that their resumes are actually read and remembered by hiring managers.

MORE INFO   SOLD OUT!!

ALTERNATIVE CAREER PATHS FOR SCIENTISTS AND ENGINEERS

April 14, 6:00pm-9:00pm Cambridge, MA

Over 15 One-Night Mentors made brief presentations about how they broke into and thrived in careers outside of academia. They were then available for speed networking at separate tables for an opportunity to ask them questions.

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MORE IMPACT IN LESS TIME

March 25, 6:00-9:00pm Cambridge MA

The three major obstacles faced by many executive women – and what you can do to avoid them.

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BUILDING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK

March 10 Noon-2:00pm Luncheon,Cambridge MA

At some point many of us have to deal with a difficult boss or coworker. This luncheon seminar will provide concrete tools for handling challenging work situations. Led by Katherine Crowley and Kathi Elster, coauthors of the bestselling book Working With You is Killing Me.

MORE INFO   SOLD OUT!

PROJECT LEADERSHIP SERIES

February 2010

Project and alliance management are becoming increasingly important in the science and technology industries. In this two part WEST series, you will expand your leadership, influencing and motivational skills.  
  MANAGING THROUGH INFLUENCE  
  PROJECT MANAGEMENT 101

MORE INFO

 

ANNUAL WEST HOLIDAY PARTY AND NETWORKING EVENT

January 21  6:00pm-9:00pm Boston, MA

This annual event celebrates Women, Entrepreneurs, Science and Technology. The energetic and festive occasion provides formal and informal networking opportunities with other WEST members, a chance to hear about exciting developments at WEST, entertainment, good food, and time to enjoy the party. We will also be acknowledging those who "Give Back" to others in science and technology.

MORE INFO

 

 

 

https://www.westorg.org/2020-01-23-self-promotion-webinar