Bethany College Hosts 11th Annual Women & Leadership Symposium Focused on "Winning in the Workplace and Beyond" - Bethany Colle
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:22
Bethany College Hosts 11th Annual Women & Leadership Symposium Focused on "Winning in the Workplace and Beyond" - Bethany College
Bethany College Hosts 11th Annual Women & Leadership Symposium Focused on “Winning in the Workplace and Beyond”
BETHANY, W.Va. (April 22, 2026)
— Bethany College welcomed alumnae, students, and professionals to campus for the 11th Annual Women & Leadership Symposium,
“Winning in the Workplace and Beyond,”
a two-day event focused on professional growth, connection, and shared insight.
The symposium brought together a dynamic group of speakers and attendees for meaningful conversations surrounding leadership, career development, and navigating today’s evolving workplace. Through a keynote session, breakout room sessions, panel discussion, and networking opportunities, participants engaged in thoughtful dialogue and built connections that extended beyond the event.
“Women thrive here at Bethany, they just do,” said Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi,
who gave opening remarks that highlighted the strength, resilience, and impact of women within the Bethany community.
Following was keynote speaker Toria Tolley ’78, an Emmy Award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor, who shared her perspective on communication, confidence, and leadership in high-pressure environments. Her remarks set the tone for a program centered on both personal and professional advancement.
“Learn as much as you can, because you could be doing it all,” said Tolley. “Being prepared and willing to step up makes all the difference.”
Additional sessions featured four breakout sessions led by accomplished Bethany alumnae and professionals, each offering focused insight and practical takeaways. These sessions included
“
From Paychecks to Passion Projects,
”
led by Kelly Murray ’09;
“
Winning in the Workplace,
”
led by Jennifer Fleahman Rohrig ’11;
“
Climbing the Ladder to Success: Capitalizing on Wins and Losses,
”
led by Jen Windmiller, MBA ’23; and
“
The Next Chapter: You’re Free. Now What,
”
led by Dr. Gail Frankle ’77. Each breakout provided attendees with actionable strategies while fostering open discussion, collaboration, and meaningful connection among participants.
Afterward, an expert panel shared their reflections aligned with the event’s theme, “Winning in the Workplace and Beyond.” Panelists included Dr. Kelly Chaney ’05, Lindsey Faddish ’11, Kristy Howell ’04, Michele Myauo ’00, and Erica Pietranton ’09, with Tolley acting as moderator.
“This year’s symposium created space for meaningful connection and conversation across generations of Bethany women,” said Vice President for Advancement Jason Koegler. “It was encouraging to see attendees share experiences, build relationships, and leave with ideas and perspectives they can carry forward in their personal and professional lives.”
The event also celebrated the recipients of the Scarlett Foster Scholarship, awarded to two Bethany seniors, Amelia Scott, and Catha Maria Recabeitia in recognition of academic achievement and leadership.
Bethany College extends its appreciation to the speakers, attendees, and organizers who contributed to the success of this year’s symposium. Named in honor of alumna Ann Wilkin Trombadore ’51, longtime trustee and champion for women’s leadership, the Women & Leadership Symposium continues to serve as a cornerstone event, reflecting the College’s dedication to empowering women and supporting leadership development.
See Photos
Bethany College Hosts 11th Annual Women & Leadership Symposium Focused on “Winning in the Workplace and Beyond”
BETHANY, W.Va. (April 22, 2026)
— Bethany College welcomed alumnae, students, and professionals to campus for the 11th Annual Women & Leadership Symposium,
“Winning in the Workplace and Beyond,”
a two-day event focused on professional growth, connection, and shared insight.
The symposium brought together a dynamic group of speakers and attendees for meaningful conversations surrounding leadership, career development, and navigating today’s evolving workplace. Through a keynote session, breakout room sessions, panel discussion, and networking opportunities, participants engaged in thoughtful dialogue and built connections that extended beyond the event.
“Women thrive here at Bethany, they just do,” said Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi,
who gave opening remarks that highlighted the strength, resilience, and impact of women within the Bethany community.
Following was keynote speaker Toria Tolley ’78, an Emmy Award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor, who shared her perspective on communication, confidence, and leadership in high-pressure environments. Her remarks set the tone for a program centered on both personal and professional advancement.
“Learn as much as you can, because you could be doing it all,” said Tolley. “Being prepared and willing to step up makes all the difference.”
Additional sessions featured four breakout sessions led by accomplished Bethany alumnae and professionals, each offering focused insight and practical takeaways. These sessions included
“
From Paychecks to Passion Projects,
”
led by Kelly Murray ’09;
“
Winning in the Workplace,
”
led by Jennifer Fleahman Rohrig ’11;
“
Climbing the Ladder to Success: Capitalizing on Wins and Losses,
”
led by Jen Windmiller, MBA ’23; and
“
The Next Chapter: You’re Free. Now What,
”
led by Dr. Gail Frankle ’77. Each breakout provided attendees with actionable strategies while fostering open discussion, collaboration, and meaningful connection among participants.
Afterward, an expert panel shared their reflections aligned with the event’s theme, “Winning in the Workplace and Beyond.” Panelists included Dr. Kelly Chaney ’05, Lindsey Faddish ’11, Kristy Howell ’04, Michele Myauo ’00, and Erica Pietranton ’09, with Tolley acting as moderator.
“This year’s symposium created space for meaningful connection and conversation across generations of Bethany women,” said Vice President for Advancement Jason Koegler. “It was encouraging to see attendees share experiences, build relationships, and leave with ideas and perspectives they can carry forward in their personal and professional lives.”
The event also celebrated the recipients of the Scarlett Foster Scholarship, awarded to two Bethany seniors, Amelia Scott, and Catha Maria Recabeitia in recognition of academic achievement and leadership.
Bethany College extends its appreciation to the speakers, attendees, and organizers who contributed to the success of this year’s symposium. Named in honor of alumna Ann Wilkin Trombadore ’51, longtime trustee and champion for women’s leadership, the Women & Leadership Symposium continues to serve as a cornerstone event, reflecting the College’s dedication to empowering women and supporting leadership development.
See Photos