Boston, MA – March 29, 2007 – Wentworth Institute of Technology recognized the 35th anniversary of the first women enrolled at the Institute by hosting a dinner celebration on March 28. Ms. Shannon O’Brien, Chief Executive Officer of the Girl Scouts, Patriots' Trail Council, served as the keynote speaker, offering her perspective on the current state of women leaders and the barriers women face to obtaining leadership positions. Previously, Ms. O'Brien served as Massachusetts State Treasurer from 1999-2003, and served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and the Massachusetts Senate. (See photos.)

As part of the celebration, professor Regina Berkman of the electronics and mechanical department received the first annual 'Women at Wentworth' award, which was presented to her for the commitment she has demonstrated to Wentworth students and the outstanding leadership she provided for female students at the Institute. Over 70 alumnae, students, faculty, and staff attended the event.

Ms. O’Brien presented on the exciting state of women holding leadership positions in academia and politics, and the historical milestones of 35 years of women at Wentworth and the 95th anniversary of the Girl Scouts. She spoke of the satisfaction she receives through her role as CEO of the Girl Scouts, sharing her enthusiasm at building the next generation of women leaders and breaking down the barriers to their success. The need to overcome the hurdle of having a lack of women role models in leadership positions, as compared to male counterparts, is another topic she discussed relating to the challenges women face in obtaining these positions. Furthermore, she reflected on the challenges she faced while running for governor and the lessons learned, stressing the importance of establishing credibility and portraying strength and decisiveness.

“Celebrating 35 years of women at Wentworth provides a time to reflect on the important achievements women have made over the years, and their tremendous determination and vision to enter into technology disciplines,” said Zorica Pantic, President of Wentworth Institute of Technology. “Attracting and retaining women to careers in science, technology, engineering, math, and design are at the forefront of the Institute’s strategic initiatives related to diversity.”

This historical milestone recognizes the 35th anniversary of the first five women to enroll at the Institute. Doris Dennis, Jane Estella, Virginia Butcher, Deborah Banks, and Sue Hardt all played an integral role in our history as pioneers for women students at Wentworth.

In addition, to recognizing the achievements from the past thirty-five years, the event offered networking opportunities among current students and alumnae, forging partnerships that will inspire the next group of female leaders.

President Pantic and keynote speaker Shannon O’Brien,
Chief Executive Officer of the Girl Scouts.