The Greek philosopher Heraclitus argued that “character is destiny.” If that is true, defining one’s character and destiny is a daunting task for students and young alumni, especially as they enter the professional world. However, through role models and stories of resilience, students and alumni become inspired and empowered, helping develop their character that will guide them on the road to excellence.
To help facilitate with that journey and to coincide with the celebration of Women’s History Month, FIU Alumni hosted the inaugural PantHER Series event, an opportunity for “female trailblazers who bleed blue and gold,” as moderator Alexandra Rokaw noted, to share their character with fellow FIU alumni, detailing success stories and insight into excellence in the professional world.
During the hour-long webinar, panelists Susana Klotz ’11 & ’22, Trustee Chanel T. Rowe ’14, and Wendy Barba-Tigrett ’02 shared their personal and professional experiences, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the philosophies that have guided their journeys. Their anecdotes made a valuable impression on the minds of attendees who will one day, as Rokaw commented, be “better people and better professionals” because of it.
Barba-Tigrett discussed how all great things begin by showing up, noting the importance of being “the best version of yourself” to excel in the workplace. “Excellence requires a lot of patience, a lot of work, and time to evolve,” she explained.
Rowe expanded on the topic, suggesting that personal excellence can transfer, as if through osmosis, to one’s fellow colleagues. “Be the best version of yourself and let your light shine” Rowe added. “Through that, as you’re letting your own light shine, it also brings out the best in others.”
Later in the webinar, the conversation addressed a challenge that women have long faced in the professional world; the choice between having a career and having a family. However, in the 21st century, this is quickly changing. According to Klotz, it is possible for women to have both a professional career and a family if they first determine what their goals are.
“You do have a choice, and you have to decide your calling,” Klotz explained. “Once you commit to your true self, you don’t feel like you’re choosing.”
Unfortunately, that was not the only barrier that can block the success of women that came up in the group’s discussion. One example of these potential barricades was a cognitive one. Rowe detailed that it could come in the form of “overthinking, fear, self-doubt, lack of confidence, lack of self-worth.”
For alumni and students watching, there was much more to glean from this engaging discussion. It spanned topics of interest like avoiding decisions that may hold oneself back from accomplishing a goal; responding to judgement from other colleagues; and valuing being underestimated in the workplace. Undoubtedly, the insight shared benefits any Panther.
“I look forward to seeing all of you at the top,” cheered Rowe to the attendees as the presenters declared “Paws Up” for the journey ahead.
If you missed the webinar, visit the FIU Alumni Facebook page or Youtube channel to watch a recording.
The PantHER Series is scheduled to be an ongoing event, so stay tuned as more alumni share their engaging stories of resilience, perseverance, and success.