Womxn in Power Lunch Emphasizes Community

Women's Equality Day occurs yearly on August 26 to commemorate women gaining the right to vote in 1920. To celebrate this occasion, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion hosted a Womxn in Power Luncheon event on August 28. Vice President for Strategic Enrollment and Student Engagement Michelle Tufau Afriyie kicked off the event with a strong message about empowerment.

"The theme of women's empower resonates deeply with me. My journey at QCC began as the director of financial aid 17 years ago. I witnessed firsthand how empowering women with access to education not only improved their lives but also lifted up their entire family and the communities to which they belonged. Empowerment expands beyond individual support, it encompasses creating an environment that celebrates diversity, nurtures talent and advocates for the rights of women," said Tufau. "This is a collective journey that requires unity, empathy and continuous effort. Our journey is ongoing and those who fought for gender equality serve as a constant reminder that progress is achieved through persistent efforts and unwavering commitment."

As advisors to the SHE Club, Director of Athletics & Fitness Center Lisa Gurnick and Administrative Assistant I - College & Career Pathways Deb Fratturelli, described the mission of the club (Support, Help, and Encourage female students). 

"As a former QCC student, I can relate to the struggles of having to balance work, classes and family life all at the same time. To have a group like this on campus when I was here would have been so helpful," Gurnick commented.

Fratturelli noted that last year's club became involved in volunteering and fundraising, which led to $700 in donations to Abby's House, a shelter, housing and advocacy group for women in Worcester.

"This is good for the community and also good for our students and their academic portfolio. I'm proud to say that the last president of SHE Club and my former mentee is going to Smith College on a full boat," said Fratturelli.

Moderated by Student Accessibility Coordinator Mikaela Kitka, the discussion included a panel of local women that have achieved success in a variety of industries:

• Senator Robyn Kennedy, state senator for First Worceste district
• Sedruola "Sedie" Maruska, director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center
• Linda Maykel, D.D.S., QCC board of trustee member and foundation director
• Tess Waresmith, CEO & founder of Wealth with Tess and VP of operations and technology at Acceleration Partners

The discussion covered topics such as challenges and expectations that are put on women as well as advice for women to take steps toward empowerment on a local level.

Maruska, "A lot of people don't understand how they got the right to vote. People went through horrific things in order to gain this right to vote and they also don't understand marginalized women, like black women, didn't get the right to vote until 1965. So there's a lot of education that needs to be put out there. 

Kennedy added, "I tell people that the president of the state senate has more power than the president of the United States in your day to day life. Civics engagement is so important."

As the first woman dentist in Worcester, Maykel told the crowd that she relied on many role models to continue her success.

"The more we keep mentoring and helping each other. That's why events like this Womxn in Power lunch are terrific in terms of networking. They can help you move on in your journey and we can keep the conversation going," Maykel said.

Waresmith recalled a story of a successful women in the finance industry that collaborated with her despite not knowing each other. The collaboration led to growth in Waresmith's business and she in turn tries to uplift those around her.

"I'll remember that forever," Waresmith said. "Even if we don't think we have much to offer, you might know someone or have a connection and this can create and build community."

Professor of English Margaret Wong told a powerful story of growing up as a girl in a traditional Chinese family and following her passion for education. 

"My sisterhood expanded beyond my family to the world of women. Along the way, I came to realize one voice is good, but a collective voice is even better, it's even more powerful," Wong said.

Professor of Human Services Brenda Safford wrapped up the event by thanking the panel and the audience and describing her mission at the college as making space for and lifting up others. Her advice: "You have to know who you are or you can't help anybody. Be you, be bold."