ACE Women of Southern California Lunch and Learn Unites Multiple CSU Leaders

The ACE Women’s Network of Southern California’s Lunch and Learn event was recently held at our campus. The luncheon gathered over 140 students, leaders, and staff from The Beach, Cal State Fullerton, Cal Poly Pomona, Cal Poly Humboldt, and Salesforce. Attendees were given the opportunity to network and build relationships with institutional leaders and colleagues, followed by a panel of CSULB leaders discussing their own journeys to success. Panelists included President Dr. Jane Close Conoley, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Karyn Scissum Gunn, and Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Beth Lesen. The panel was also facilitated by Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Studies Dr. Kerry Johnson. 

The luncheon’s theme was “The Power of Purpose, Passion, and Perseverance.” Our panelists shared their stories, how they combat gender norms, and detailed their success in attaining institutional achievement. Other topics of discussion included their experiences and struggles as professionals. An impactfully transparent panel, our speakers opened the floor at the end for questions where they gave attendees words of advice and encouragement. CSULB was a proud host campus for the day, exhibiting our plethora of women leaders and the possibility to excel in a male-driven society.  

The ACE Women’s Network is a national organization with the goal of advancing and supporting women in higher education. For over 25 years, the organization has supplied information and counsel to constituencies within the higher education community regarding policies, issues, education, and research that influence women's equity, diversity, and advancement.  

For more information on the ACE Women’s Network of Southern California, please visit their website.