The Women’s Network, an organization run by women for women, is a group that supports and helps students at Seton Hall to prepare for their futures.
Alexandra Cherry, a junior biology major and president of The Women’s Network, said the organization’s mission is to “create a community of women that celebrates the desire to achieve and cultivate ambition to prepare the next generation of leaders.”
She added the organization hopes to “revolutionize networking for collegiate and recently graduated women.”
Cherry said she is a strong believer in all that women can accomplish, and she joined the organization to help other women feel empowered, successful and remind them they are not alone.
She said any female-identifying members on campus are free to join.
“They must want to learn and enhance their professional skills and network among other ambitious women,” Cherry said. “This organization is non-competitive, so anyone, no matter their major or education level, is welcomed.”
Isabella Joseph, a junior business management and economics double major, and vice president of The Women’s Network, said she agrees with Cherry.
“It exists as a non-competitive organization for women from all majors, and it breeds a community of learning and professional growth, which is crucial for women,” Joseph said. “We exist in a world as a minority and others don’t always see the beautiful worth we have.”
Joseph said she takes a more political view as a member of the organization.
“There is a large gap between women and men in the workforce, and women are not as financially trained when it comes to different aspects of life,” Joseph said. “Women bring a level of strength to the table and must be recognized and appreciated for what we can do to change the narrative.”
Leah Chan, a junior political science major and vice president of marketing, said she agrees with both Cherry and Joseph.
“This organization is a welcoming place that helps give women the tools to succeed by empowering, respecting and sharing with them,” Chan said.
Chan said that as vice president of marketing, she learned that “networking is not as intimidating as it seems when conducted in an inclusive and supportive environment.”
Chan said The Women’s Network gives shoutouts to women for their achievements on their Instagram. She added that the organization has “Spotify Sunday” where they will recognize a female singer or band.
Cherry added that The Women’s Network will host networking, career development and social events “to not only promote professional advancement but to allow our members to meet other women on campus in a friendly and relaxed environment.”
“We hold a variety of events with co-sponsorships that range from professional workshops like financial literacy events to bonding events,” Joseph said.
The Women’s Network currently has over 150 chapters across the nation and just recently went international.
“Our network has grown so expansively, and Seton Hall is one of the few New Jersey chapters,” Cherry said. “By bringing our chapter to Seton Hall, we’ve given our female-identifying community new opportunities to be a part of a life-changing organization.”
Cherry added that the organization’s main goal is to make connections and grow a network.
“The main goal is to allow other members to feel as connected to the network as I do and to continue to grow our The Women’s Network community, which is why we’ve worked so hard to be recognized on campus,” Cherry said.
Chan said The Women’s Network is an inclusive organization that brings women together and “allows them to shine.”
“As the motto goes,” Chan said, “Want in? You’re in. So, come join the family of The Women Network.”
Morgan Frye can be reached at morgan.frye@student.shu.edu.
