Purdue Alumni Association to unite alumnae at 2020 Women’s Conference

The International Council of Purdue Women held its inaugural Women's Conference in Chicago in 2018. This year, the Women's Conference will take place in April 30 and May 1 in Indianapolis to explore the theme "Design Your Journey." (Image provided) Download image

The International Council of Purdue Women is hosting its second-ever Women’s Conference in downtown Indianapolis on April 30 and May 1.

The event brings together Purdue women from across campus — and the world — to connect and uplift one another as together they imagine and design the lives and careers they want. The conference theme, "Design Your Journey," will highlight the peaks and valleys of personal and professional journeys, shared from the main stage and through numerous breakout sessions and facilitated conversations.

Session highlights are:

Purdue at the Zoo: Women’s Reception & Oceans Biome Multisensory Experience
Take a trip through the Indianapolis Zoo’s Oceans biome on a special after-hours tour hosted by Purdue alumna Shauna Gallagher. View penguins, touch sharks and marvel at this mysterious underwater world.

Opening Keynote: Three P’s of Success — A Journey Story of Education, Ethics and Using Your Voice
Purdue alumna Melissa Stapleton Barnes was the first member of her family to graduate from high school. She had little idea that her journey would lead to one day becoming the senior vice president, enterprise risk management at Eli Lilly and Co., as well as the company's chief ethics and compliance officer.

"Digging in Their Heels: An Energized, Eye-opening Story of Women’s Battle for the Vote"
2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing women’s constitutional right to vote. "Digging in Their Heels" is the story of women’s suffrage told in a way attendees will never forget.

In addition to the lineup of speakers and workshops, the conference will offer a number of intimate breakout and networking sessions where attendees can connect with colleagues and make new contacts.

Participation is geared toward women of Purdue but is open to all. The conference will take place at The Alexander, 333 Delaware St., Indianapolis. Cost is $349 for Purdue Alumni Association members, $399 for nonmembers and $199 for students (Friday only). Online registration is available here.

The International Council of Purdue Women is an affinity network of the Purdue Alumni Association. For those who are not already members of the association, conference registration secures a yearlong membership at the PLUS-level, including membership in the International Council of Purdue Women.