This year marks Women & Hi Tech’s 20th anniversary as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and we have been “Celebrating Our Past and Investing in Our Future” all year! On September 26-27, 2019, an intimate group of Women & Hi Tech members and friends convened at The French Lick Resort to continue our 20th Anniversary celebration at The Fall Retreat with a focus on connection, relaxation, and rejuvenation. In the spirit of diversity and inclusion, notably, Women & Hi Tech was pleased and honored to welcome our first male attendee this year at the Fall Retreat!
Informally, the retreat began on Thursday afternoon with the Women & Hi Tech Board participating in a bowling teambuilding event. Later, retreat attendees dressed in their best 1920’s flapper or gatsby attire, before they paraded through the French Lick/West Baden campus to their dinner venue. Resort onlookers, which coincidently included Dr. Sue Ellspermann, President of Ivy Tech Community College, joined the fun by taking pictures and bantering with the retro-clad group.
The official kickoff of the Fall Retreat occurred with a 1920’s-themed dinner and reception at the beautiful West Baden Hotel Veranda overlooking the fall foliage offered by historic French Lick. In addition to an exceptional buffet meal, the welcome reception included photos and rides in a classic car, dancing, games, and gifts. The evening was capped off with other activities available at the French Lick Resort, including big wins for some ladies at the casino!
Friday began with activity or personal relaxation time. Attendees then enjoyed a lavish brunch before a powerful and inspiring professional development seminar delivered by keynote speaker, Paula López Reck. Paula’s talk was followed by an open, honest, and critically necessary conversation amongst the attendees representing early, mid, and senior career professionals about the importance and necessity for authenticity, equity, and opportunity in STEM professions in Indiana.
Women & Hi Tech sincerely thanks all attendees, sponsors, and supporters of this year’s Fall Retreat. It was truly a historic event to cap off a year of celebrating our 20th Anniversary. If you missed this biennial event, Women & Hi Tech invites you to attend the next Fall Retreat in 2021!
