The third annual International Women’s Day Conference, hosted by the Women’s Leadership Program at Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and Economics and Brea Chamber of Commerce Women Rising Leadership Academy (WRLA), provided CSUF students, alumni and members of the Orange County business community a transformative experience filled with growth, inspiration and meaningful connections.
Held March 6, the conference centered on the theme “Maverick Moves and Mental Fitness: Keys to Your Success,” highlighting the role of resilience, adaptability and intentional career growth in today’s workplace.
Keynote speaker Gina L. Osborn, a retired FBI agent turned TED Talk speaker and podcaster, addressed the challenges and opportunities facing women in today’s workforce and how to choose growth over comfort for best career outcomes.
Lori Muse, director of the Women’s Leadership Program, noted that the 2026 conference drew a record 320 attendees, including a strong student presence and an expanding network of business professionals, creating valuable connections for students beyond CSUF. “Participant feedback highlighted that they left inspired and equipped with practical tools to make their own maverick moves and are already looking forward to returning in 2027,” she said. “I am deeply grateful to all who contributed to what we accomplished this year.”
Business resource groups from Mercury Insurance were the presenting sponsors for the third year, sponsoring speakers at the conference. Mercury also sent 40 attendees from around the country. Student sponsor, Word & Brown sponsored 160 students for attendance. Jamboree Housing also supported the event by bringing 18 employees to participate.
The speaker lineup also included career coaches Karen Gifford, Nahid Casazza, Tara Norton, Lois Carson, and Nanor Ohanesian, who led interactive sessions on positive intelligence. Students and professional attendees had opportunity to ask questions and gain insights from these leaders who have decades of expertise in the business world. A highlight of the event was the recognition of Dorothy Heide, founder of the Women’s Leadership Program, who was met with a standing ovation as she encouraged attendees to invest in students by giving their time and support.
The Women’s Advancement Champion Award was presented during the event, recognizing women leaders who foster empowerment and the male allies who advocate for their advancement. Honorees in 2026 were Provost Emeritus and Woods Center Director Anil Puri, President of Family Enterprise USA and CSUF business grad Pat Soldano, and Southern California Edison Director of Workforce Development and Inclusion and Head of Enterprise Learning Keisha J. McNeil.
For More on Women’s Leadership
From the annual conference each March to regular workshops and individualized advising for undergraduate and graduate students throughout the academic year, the Women’s Leadership Program at CSUF’s College of Business and Economics is dedicated to empowering the next generation of women leaders by addressing underrepresentation of women in top leadership roles. To learn more about the program, visit their website or read more of our articles on women’s leadership.
