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The WICT Network 2022 Leadership Conference

The WICT Network 2022 Leadership Conference, held October 10-11, 2022, at the New York Marriott Marquis, featured more than 70 executives, academics, journalists, entrepreneurs and athletes who shared their wisdom as coaches, panelists, moderators and speakers.

The WICT Network: Greater Pittsburgh chapter was represented by several members of our group, including the 2022 scholarship recipient, Jennifer Rudd.

"I felt such sense of pride that I was chosen to represent us at the conference. It was such an honor to represent our chapter and be among these remarkable women and men from a wide range of companies in the industry. I am rarely at a loss for words and at times I honestly was. As I sat there taking it all in, I listened to every word the executives, journalists, entrepreneurs, and athletes spoke as they shared their powerful stories, words of wisdom, and shared some advice based on their experience. There were many laughs and even some tears.” she said. “There were so many memorable moments from the conference."

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"There were so many memorable moments from the conference. Having the opportunity to listen to the FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, the first woman holding this position.  She spoke of the importance of getting your seat at the table and finding your way is, so your voice is heard and that it is important to bring others along with you. Be a mentor or sponsor and advocate for others. This resonated with me, knowing the importance of having people in the room who have advocated for me in my own career.

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Many who know me would tell you that I am crazy for Christmas and love Hallmark Christmas movies, I watch them all year long! When Wonya Lucas, President and CEO of Hallmark Media was honored and Women of the Year for Programming, I was so excited and knew I had to meet her.  She spoke of her journey and the numerous companies that paved her way and led her to Hallmark, the people around her at Hallmark and the family that they have become. I had the opportunity to meet and talk to Wonya after the awards ceremony during the luncheon, even got a photo with her. She was the nicest kindest woman, and yes, you know we talked Hallmark Christmas.

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A few more memorable moments and highlight for me was having the opportunity to hear Robin Roberts speak. She was truly phenomenal, and we could have listened to her all day. She spoke about Brighter days, her latest book that helped shape the person she is today and her outlook and how she views the world today. Robin also shared stories of her days at ESPN, her parents and being a cancer survivor. Steve White, President, and Special Counsel to the CEO of Comcast spoke and his speech was very memorable. Something we can all takeaway - his first question he asked – “Are you living your why?”  He spoke of the importance of creating a life of impact and success so people are cheering your name.  Steve left us with this, which really makes you think, “If there are 80k people in a stadium, are they cheering, booking, or worse is there no impact?”       

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I had such an amazing time at the conference, and I had the privilege and opportunity to spend it with some of my Comcast colleagues from the Keystone region who also attended; Lauren Trocano, Jo Posti, Ann Masland, Kristin Ritchey, Jennifer Frees, and our VP of HR, Erica Dean. We had a great time learning together.

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This was truly a memorable experience for me and one that I will cherish. Not only for all the remarkable speakers, but also the many people I got to meet and new relationships I have formed thanks to attending the conference. I encourage everyone to add this to your bucket list, and next year when you have the opportunity, apply for the scholarship. The conference is going to be September 18-19 in NY at the Marriott Marquees."