In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Chamber is honored to recognize just a few of our region’s female leaders who represent the powerful impact of women on our region’s growth and success.
How can businesses continue to strengthen and support the women in the workplace and beyond?
Colleen M. Arnold, President, Aqua, an Essential Utilities Company:
“Businesses can continue to strengthen and support women in the workplace by ensuring they are interviewed and recruited at all levels and providing an environment where diversity of all kinds is celebrated. Workplace allies help by making sure their female colleagues voices are heard. I have worked my entire career as an engineer in the minority and have many times had a male employee repeat what I said and get credit for it. Be mindful – and create an atmosphere where all voices are heard.”
How has your identity impacted and helped shape you into the leader you are today?
Farah Jimenez, President and CEO, Philadelphia Education Fund:
“I am the child of immigrant parents, who escaped their country with little more than their education. I witnessed how, even during the height of the Civil Rights era, with an education, a black woman – my mom – could become a doctor…I am driven by my parents’ powerful example to take on the challenge to ensure that every Philadelphia student understands that an education can be the greatest gift they give to themselves and their progeny.”
What does diversity mean to you and why should it be celebrated?
Veronica McKee, Chief Marketing Officer, The Haverford Trust Company:
“Diversity creates the opportunity to think differently as a result of exposure to others’ experiences and viewpoints. It also sets the stage for an inclusion environment that fosters that type of thinking. Including diversity in your personal or professional journey is a sure way to become the best version of what you’re after.”
The Chamber positions diversity, equity, and inclusion as critical for business maturation and growth. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative drives economic competitiveness, highlights diverse employee populations, and promotes inclusive growth throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.
