Kick off the fall with an evening designed to help the Academy community build connections, exchange career insight, and explore the many ways scientists lead, communicate, and create impact across STEM.

Open to attendees of all genders and career stages, this interactive in-person program will spotlight leading women in STEM as role models and conversation facilitators while inviting the full Academy community to engage in practical discussion about scientific careers today. 

Participants will take part in three themed breakout sessions selected from five available conversation topics. Each session will be guided by women scientists and STEM leaders who will draw on their own lived experience to support candid, practical discussion about building visibility, navigating career transitions, strengthening professional networks, leading from any role, and applying STEM expertise across sectors. The evening will also include unstructured networking over light refreshments, creating additional space to continue conversations, exchange ideas, and make new connections. 

At registration, participants will be asked to identify their top three preferred breakout themes.

By participating in this program, attendees will be better able to: 

• Identify strategies for building professional visibility, credibility, and authentic communication around their scientific work 

• Compare approaches to navigating STEM career transitions, decision points, and evolving professional goals 

• Describe ways to build networks that support collaboration, mentorship, career exploration, and future opportunities

• Explain how STEM expertise can be applied across sectors, roles, and forms of societal impact 

• Identify behaviors that support leadership, influence, and collaboration without formal authority 

• Reflect on how visible women STEM role models can expand perceptions of STEM careers, leadership, and professional possibility 

• Apply discussion insights to identify at least one concrete next step for their career development, professional network, or scientific engagement 

Membership with The New York Academy of Sciences connects you to a global network of scientists and innovators, offering discounted access to programs, events, and professional development for learning, collaboration, and career growth.

Nonmembers can purchase membership directly during event registration and start enjoying member pricing right away.

*Our Student community includes Postdocs and Fellows.