The Women's Center

Women's Professional Development Series - Spring 2008

Developing Your Digital Identity: Personal and Professional Possibilities
Friday, February 1st, 1:30 ~ 3:00 p.m.

Preparing for a job market search? Want to develop a blog or portfolio but just haven’t had a chance? This session will address a range of options for developing a digital identity, including blogs, electronic portfolios, and social networking software, including thee virtual possibilities of Second Life. The presenter will discuss the pros and cons of developing and maintaining a digital space that showcases your accomplishments and your interests, and how do an online identity complement your print-based dossier? This session also will include samples and opportunities for brainstorming design, artifact, and delivery choices, and leave participants will leave with a plan for acquiring a range of necessary technological skills for developing an online presence.
Presenter: Dr. Kris Blair, English

“Lifting as You Climb”
Friday, March 28th, 1:30 ~ 3:00 p.m.

During the 2001-2002 academic year, the Women’s Center was fortunate to have a remarkable young woman as a student worker.  She returns to us--and BGSU--to lead a discussion for future professionals about ethical issues in career development:  What is your ultimate life purpose?  How do your personal experiences and upbringing influence the choices and decisions you make (or aspire to make)?  How do you hope to navigate the path toward an identity independent from your family?  What decisions can you make now to ensure that your choice of career will enable you to leave behind a legacy of which you can be proud?  Join the conversation with an inspiring young professional who truly walks the talk.

Panel Moderator: Kimili Sims, BGSU Alumnus

To Come Out, or Not to Come Out at Work: That is the Question
Friday, April 18th, 1:30 ~ 3:00 p.m.

According to Fortune magazine, more than half of Fortune 500 companies now offer health insurance and other benefits to their employees’ same-gender domestic partners.  However, the workplace still is not always welcoming of lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people--especially to those who work in public schools, small or privately-owned companies, government or certain other venues.  This panel presentation will focus on the experiences of LGBT employees being out and/or coming out at work.  Panel members will explore the personal, professional, and legal aspects surrounding being LGBT in the workplace, and discuss ways in which they have navigated those issues.

Facilitator: Annie Russell, LGBT Resource Center