When Cal State Fullerton alum Martha Blanding got the call that The Walt Disney Co. was going to recognize her with its distinguished Disney Legends Award, she was “humbled, honored and speechless.”
The award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the company, inspired Blanding to reflect on all that she has learned throughout her 50-year Disney career.
She shared those lessons with faculty, staff and students at Cal State Fullerton’s inaugural LeadHERship Women’s Conference, encouraging them to persevere in the face of adversity, lead with respect and pursue professional opportunities that bring them happiness.
“Do not let somebody tell you that you can’t do something when you know you can,” said Blanding. “You have to believe in yourself and always put your best foot forward.”
Presented by the Division of Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence, the conference invited campus community members to hear from several guest speakers as they reflected on the impact of women’s leadership and shared strategies for future success.
Women make up more than 50% of the employee workforce at CSUF, and of that workforce, more than 90% hold college degrees, explained Phenicia McCullough, vice president for human resources and inclusive excellence.
“We stand on the shoulders of the women who came before us,” said McCullough. “We must continue to broaden our network, engage, uplift and help one another.”
ASI President Haneefah Syed shared her experience learning to navigate leadership as a college student. Although initially nervous about representing more than 45,000 students, Syed said she found comfort in learning about the women who came before her and the way they transformed the campus through their work.
“Women pave the way every single day, so that generations after us can walk with greater ease, confidence and hope,” said Syed. “My personal hope is that we leave this room and not only commit to recognizing the leadership within ourselves, but illuminate pathways ahead for leaders like me to grow in the future.”
CSUF President Ronald Rochon said he is confident about tomorrow’s leaders because he’s seen firsthand how students like Syed are making a difference with their hard work and dedication.
“We are ready for you to take the baton. We’re ready for you to share your voice,” said Rochon. “I encourage you to understand the significance of leadership right now at this time and in this moment. It’s difficult. We need courageous, compassionate and brilliant leaders.”
During the program, Darcy Totten, executive director of the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls, encouraged attendees to embrace advocacy as a way to enact positive change through public policy. Professional leadership coaches Gretchen Hydo and Melissa Majors shared strategies to help attendees lead with clarity and purpose.
“The purpose of today’s conference was to deliver empowerment, skills, community and self-discovery, so that every person can see themselves as a leader and recognize the leadership that they provide to our campus,” said Cecil Chik, assistant vice president for engagement and belonging/senior diversity officer.