Industry leaders discuss being a woman in communications

By Kianna Coley

The College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts’ Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver Center for the Advancement of Women in Communication hosted the Inaugural Virgil and Joann Smith Thought Leaders Forum, Future of the Information Age” on March 31.

Moderated by School of Communication + Journalism alumna Nathalia Ortiz, award-winning journalist and founder of Natush Media, the virtual event offered a space to discuss the current and future state of communications, and the role women play in shaping it. The event also hosted special guest speakers: Marsheila Hayes, VP of Diversity and Inclusion at FOX Corporation, and Amalie Nash, SVP Local News, and Audience Development at USA TODAY Network.

“We had two very accomplished women professionals… who had a very important message for young people entering careers in the communications industries or hoping to move into leadership positions in the future,” Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver remarked on the event.

In the spirit of USA Today’s ‘5 Things’ podcast, Nash provided a list of five things all communicators should consider as they navigate through the new age of media and technology:

• the consequences of too much information
• how to combat miscommunication and “fake news”
• developing new ways to deliver messages to audiences
• preparing yourself for the future/career you want
• the benefits of having women in higher positions and decision-making roles in the workplace

In addition, Hayes highlighted the importance of believing in and being yourself, staying focused, and having a mentor or support system behind you to push you and celebrate your successes with you. She attributes her success to her mentor, Virgil L. Smith, for whom the annual forum is named. She also emphasized the power of speaking to your own authenticity.

“Don't mold yourself into something you are not,” Hayes urged viewers. “Find environments where you can be your authentic self.”

The online seminar concluded with a Q & A session. One student asked how men can act as advocates for women in the workplace.

“Be an ally,” Nash concisely responded. “We’ve all seen women get interrupted in the boardroom or being talked over by a male colleague.” She went on to say that men can be allies by sticking up for their female colleagues when they notice such instances.

Another student question addressed the stereotype that women are overly emotional in the workplace. Hayes and Nash were asked how they manage the physical and emotional experiences of womanhood, while “staying strong” enough to navigate male-dominated arenas.

“I don't identify as a strong woman. It eliminates your ability to feel,” said Hayes. “We are not robots. We are not Superwomen! We are real people. Don't apologize for how you feel. We are professionals, but we are humans first.”

“Don't be a wall of steel, be able to connect with people,” Nash added. “Show your emotion, be vulnerable so others feel comfortable working with you. Emotions can be powerful tools in making connections.”