International Women’s Day is March 8, 2025. This year’s theme is “Accelerate Action.” As things currently stand, data from the World Economic Forum indicate that it will be 2158 until we reach full gender parity. That’s roughly five generations from now. I believe that’s five – maybe even six or seven -- generations too long. 

I also believe the generations that came before me would agree. Every day, but particularly on International Women's Day, I am so grateful to have grown up surrounded by strong female role models. Even if I didn't realize it at the time, these women shaped my understanding of leadership and possibility. 

The influence of strong women in my life didn't stop after childhood. Far from it. My best friend Beth, whom I met in law school, helped define my approach to career and advocacy. Beth and I bonded initially over academics (and our shared love of shoes), but she quickly became my career counselor, personal advocate and sometimes therapist. Through her example as an exceptional attorney who effectively prioritizes what matters most, she taught me a crucial lesson that I’ve shared often. Still, it’s worth repeating: It’s okay to not always say you can “have it all.” Instead, do your best at whatever you choose to take on. 

I want every girl and every woman to feel the support, encouragement and advocacy I felt. That’s not to say it was smooth sailing, particularly given my choice to enter male-dominated fields. It’s not enough to be aware of the gaps and lack of equality for women. We need action.  

That’s why I’m so excited about this year's theme for International Women’s Day, "Accelerate Action.” This theme challenges us to move beyond awareness to create tangible change. According to the International Women’s Day site, this year’s theme “emphasizes the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality. It calls for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face in both personal and professional spheres.” 

So, let’s talk about some of the ways we’re accelerating action. 

Connecting to champion change 

As the initial advocate for Ivanti's Women's Connection group, I've witnessed firsthand how creating spaces for authentic dialogue drives meaningful change. While our content focuses on helping women navigate their career journeys, our group welcomes everyone — regardless of gender identity. This inclusivity strengthens our ability to address the unique challenges women face in the workplace and create solutions that benefit all. 

The objective of our Women's Connection group is straightforward yet powerful: to inspire and foster the growth and development of Ivantians. By connecting women with other women, as well as creating a safe space for men and women to have dialogue about important topics, we're creating a support network that helps group members navigate career challenges and opportunities with greater confidence and clarity. 

Strength in numbers 

Numbers tell part of our story of progress. In 2023, women represented 24% of our new hires at Ivanti — matching industry benchmarks. Through focused, intentional action, we've increased that to 31% in 2024. There is more work to be done, but this shows that our intentional actions are paying off. We implemented specific strategies, including: 

  • Ensuring at least one female candidate appears on every shortlist when possible. 
  • Revising job descriptions to use gender-neutral language, recognizing how certain terms like "aggressive" might discourage female applicants. 
  • Highlighting benefits that appeal to diverse candidates such as flexible schedules and remote work options. 

The impact of everyday excellence 

What inspires me most about the women I work with is their incredible resilience and supportive nature. Each day, I witness the profound impact we can have on one another by uplifting each other, actively listening to one another's challenges and solving problems collaboratively. Our mutual support influences my approach to both leadership and advocacy. 

The diverse perspectives and innovative solutions that arise from our discussions have taught me the invaluable lesson of inclusive dialogue. As a leader, this has reinforced the importance of not just taking input but genuinely understanding and integrating different viewpoints. It has made me more empathetic, reflective and adaptive in my decision-making process. 

It takes all of us 

Women should not be alone in the push for change. I’m grateful that, at Ivanti, we have the unwavering partnership of our male allies and our CEO, who consistently champion gender equality. Their advocacy, combined with the courage, wisdom and excellence of our women executives and team members throughout Ivanti, creates a powerful force for change.

I can’t emphasize enough that it takes all of us. That includes you, the person reading this. The path forward requires collective effort, sustained commitment and accelerated action. I invite you to consider: How will you contribute to creating a more equitable future for girls and women? Every action, every connection and every opportunity to support women's advancement brings us further on the path. This International Women’s Day, and every day, I’m taking on the challenge — and channeling my friend Beth by choosing to do my best.