Empowering a Generation of Women: The Women in Business Club at Fairfield University
Imagine being part of a community of women who share your passions, goals, and aspirations – and who are working tirelessly to make a difference in the business world. At Fairfield University, this vision is a reality, thanks to the Women in Business Club (WIBC), a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Host Fairfield Dolan, a seasoned business leader and philanthropist.
Founded by Dolan, the WIBC is more than just a social club – it’s a catalyst for change. By bringing together talented, ambitious, and driven women from across Fairfield University, the club provides a platform for them to share knowledge, learn from each other, and support one another in their pursuit of success. From entrepreneurship and leadership development to networking and mentorship, the WIBC offers a wide range of activities and events that foster a sense of belonging and purpose among its members.
Student Reflections and Insights
Inspiring Journeys
Students from Fairfield Dolan’s Women in Business Club had the opportunity to share their experiences and insights after attending the event at Paramount Studios. The event featured a panel discussion with eight women leaders across various departments, including operations, finance, marketing, research, and communications. Each speaker shared their career journeys, challenges they’ve overcome, and valuable insights into the dynamic media and entertainment industry. Whitney McVeagh ’25, President of the Women in Business Club, stated, “The Women in Business Club x Paramount event was an absolutely incredible experience. Hearing from and networking with such an inspiring group of female executives was truly insightful.”
The students were particularly impressed by the panel discussion, which provided a unique opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the industry. Kathryn Cline ’27 shared, “As a finance major, I have not often had the chance to hear from many successful women in the industry. The insights shared by Candice Brancazio and her colleagues left a lasting impact, making this event one of the most inspiring experiences of my career journey thus far.”
Networking and Mentorship
The event also emphasized the importance of networking and mentorship in achieving career goals. Students had the chance to network with Paramount professionals over lunch, which provided a valuable opportunity to build connections and learn from industry experts. McVeagh noted, “The networking opportunity was incredible. We were able to connect with professionals in the industry and learn from their experiences.”
The students also appreciated the mentorship aspect of the event, which provided guidance and support for their future careers. Cline stated, “The event showed me the importance of having a mentor in the industry. It’s crucial to have someone who can guide you and provide valuable advice and support.”
Industry Insights
The students gained valuable industry insights from the panel discussion and the tour of CBS Studios. The event provided a unique opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the media and entertainment industry. McVeagh shared, “The tour of CBS Studios was amazing. We got to see the behind-the-scenes of television production, which was really interesting.”
The students also appreciated the Q&A session, which provided an opportunity to ask questions and learn from the panelists. Cline noted, “The Q&A session was really helpful. We were able to ask questions and get answers from professionals in the industry.”
Fairfield Dolan’s Career Development Center and Alumnae Support
Alumnae Involvement
Fairfield Dolan alumna and SVP/CFO Paramount Media Networks/Showtime & MTV Entertainment Studios, Candice Brancazio ’02, played a crucial role in coordinating the event. Brancazio’s involvement demonstrated the strong alumnae support for Fairfield Dolan’s students. McVeagh stated, “We were so grateful to have Candice Brancazio involved in the event. Her support and guidance were invaluable.”
The event highlighted the importance of alumnae involvement in providing opportunities for students. Cline shared, “The event showed me the impact that alumnae can have on our careers. It’s great to see that they are willing to support and guide us.”
Career Development Opportunities
The Dolan Career Development Center continues to offer experiential learning and networking opportunities for students. The center provides a range of resources and support to help students achieve their career goals. McVeagh noted, “The Dolan Career Development Center has been really helpful in providing us with opportunities to learn and grow.”
The center’s career development opportunities include workshops, internships, and job shadowing programs. These opportunities provide students with hands-on experience and exposure to different industries and careers. Cline stated, “The career development opportunities at Fairfield Dolan have been really valuable. They’ve helped me to gain experience and build my skills.”
Industry Connections
Fairfield Dolan’s connections with alumni in the industry provide valuable networking opportunities for students. The university’s strong alumnae network offers a range of resources and support to help students achieve their career goals. McVeagh shared, “The alumnae network at Fairfield Dolan is really strong. We’ve been able to connect with professionals in the industry and learn from their experiences.”
The university’s industry connections also provide opportunities for job placements and internships. The career development center works closely with alumni and industry partners to provide students with opportunities to gain experience and build their skills. Cline noted, “The industry connections at Fairfield Dolan have been really helpful. They’ve provided us with opportunities to gain experience and build our careers.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Paramount Studios’ hosting of Fairfield University’s Women in Business Club marks a significant milestone in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. As discussed in this article, the event provided a unique opportunity for students to network with industry professionals, gain valuable insights into the business side of Hollywood, and explore potential career paths. The club’s mission to empower women in business and support their professional development aligns with Paramount’s commitment to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The implications of this event extend beyond the confines of the entertainment industry, as it sets a precedent for other companies to follow suit. By investing in the next generation of female leaders, Paramount is not only enriching its own talent pipeline but also contributing to a broader cultural shift. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial that we prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure that the stories being told on screen reflect the complexity and richness of our global community. Looking ahead, we can expect to see more collaborations between educational institutions and industry leaders, driving progress towards a more inclusive and equitable entertainment landscape.