Celebrating Women in Marketing: A Day of Inspiration in New York City
This week, the vibrant city of New York played host to a heartwarming gathering that celebrated the remarkable achievements of women in the marketing industry. On the picturesque banks of the Hudson River, marketing professionals from all corners of the nation came together to honor innovation and community at the highly anticipated Top Women in Marketing Awards 2024 Luncheon.
Setting the Stage for Success
The event took place at the chic City Winery in Manhattan, setting a perfect backdrop for an afternoon filled with inspiration and camaraderie. Mary C. Buhay, the chief growth officer and head of councils at Ragan, welcomed attendees with an emotional and empowering speech. “We stand on her shoulders, and we stand on the shoulders of our ancestors, our allies here in the room, and all of our loved ones,” she said, pointing to the Statue of Liberty visible from the venue. Her words resonated with everyone present, reminding them of the power of community and shared experiences.
Sharing Voices and Wisdom
As the awards were distributed, the honorees took the stage to share their personal journeys and insights that shaped their careers. Geri Berdak, CEO of The Dairy Alliance, reflected on the challenges she faced in following her passion for food and nutrition. She encouraged the audience with a strong message, saying, “Don’t give up on your passions.” Her journey from skepticism to success was a true testament to perseverance.
Elizabeth Paffenbarger, the senior vice president of strategy at Klick Health, highlighted the role of grace in leadership. She shared that if she were to pen an autobiography, it would be titled “Lead Through Grace.” “One of the most key parts of being gracious is being gracious to yourself,” she explained, showcasing how personal well-being is crucial for effective leadership.
Marketing with a Purpose
In a thought-provoking presentation, guest speaker Jodi Patkin, who serves as the chief marketing & communications officer at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, emphasized the importance of transforming awareness campaigns into life-saving missions. Referring to the familiar pink ribbons seen every October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Patkin asserted, “Awareness enough is not alone. We must work with the best and brightest minds to advance lifesaving research and rid the world of breast cancer.” Her passionate advocacy pushed the audience to think beyond mere awareness toward tangible results.
Empowerment Through Communication
Breaking new ground in personal storytelling, Kristen Potter, digital marketing director at John Guilfoil Public Relations, drew on her experience as a mother to inspire the next generation. She encouraged her daughter to speak up and embrace her voice. “Don’t be afraid to be heard, be confident in what you say, and don’t ever hold back,” Potter advised, igniting a spark of confidence among the younger participants in the audience.
A Night to Remember
The Top Women in Marketing Awards 2024 Luncheon was more than just an awards ceremony; it was a celebration of resilience, strength, and the unwavering commitment of women leaders in a dynamic industry. It reminded everyone of the profound impact these trailblazers have not just on their respective fields, but also on future generations. With encouraging words and shared experiences, they uplifted the spirits of everyone in attendance.
As the sun set on the Hudson River, it was clear that the women honored during this event are not just shaping marketing; they are planting seeds of inspiration that will flourish for years to come.
