Celebrating Women in Business: Together, We Will Break Boundaries

This International Women’s Day, Rice Business is proud to celebrate the women who are shaping industries, opening new doors and redefining what’s possible in business and beyond. 

Expanding Opportunities, Innovating Businesses

Our school is committed to accelerating action and elevating women leaders through its organizations, faculty research, conferences and other year-round events. 

As Prof. Daan van Knippenberg, co-author of a recent commentary on gender-inclusive leadership in business schools, notes: “True gender-inclusive leadership requires rethinking not just who holds power, but how power itself is exercised. When we elevate diverse perspectives and create systems that value collective decision-making, we build stronger, more innovative organizations. This shift isn't just about equity — it’s about better business.”

From Campus to Career: A Supportive Network 

On Rice campus, the student-led Rice Business Women’s Organization is passionate about opening doors and empowering students across our MBA programs by connecting them with successful business leaders, mentors, professional development programs and career opportunities. 

Our efforts extend to the student-run Women in Leadership Conference (WILC), an annual event that welcomes attendees from all walks of life. The consistently sold-out conference serves as a platform for women to share their experiences, setbacks and successes with others in the Greater Houston area.

25 Years of WILC: Elevating Voices 

This year’s 25th Women in Leadership Conference, held on Feb. 28, welcomed nearly 600 attendees and featured uplifting keynotes from Marie Myers and Kathryne Reeves. The day included discussions on important topics applicable to all participants regardless of background or gender — from analyzing the Texas legal landscape and elevating your personal brand to strategizing assertiveness and charting new paths as a women-led venture. Throughout the conference, we asked attendees to share their thoughts on leadership, career growth and the impact of events like WILC. Here’s what they had to say:

What motivated you to attend WILC, and what do you hope to gain from it? 

Sofia Romero, industrial planning analyst at Tenaris: 

"I recently began my career in leadership, and I wanted to enrich myself with the stories of all the strong women that are here today — especially those who have navigated so many challenges and established themselves as leaders.

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Emily Brown, ’25, WILC president: 

"When I began my career in engineering, I was often one of just two women in the room — or maybe even the only woman in the room. I quickly realized how important it would be to surround myself with a group of women that offered support and encouragement, and I’ve since found that at WILC."

What’s one of your key takeaways from WILC?

Sara Cardenas, accounting analyst at Vopak:

“So far, my favorite workshop has been the one on negotiation. The speakers reminded us: don’t undersell yourself. Believe in yourself. Do the research. Educate yourself in the roles that you're applying for, and go for it.”

Ivory Ibuaka, ’27: 

“One of today’s keynotes, Marie Myers, addressed something that my current manager, Ashley, has always reminded me: ‘Always remain focused, and try not to shy away from asking the questions that come to mind.’ As a young woman at large corporations, I’ve always been scared to ask questions out of fear that I’ll seem unprepared or unqualified. But it really is important to ask those questions to create visibility for yourself, educate yourself and show your curiosity. Being engaged is always a good thing.”

Who is a female mentor that has impacted your career? 

Dildora A. ’23, senior product manager at HP: 

“My mentor, Suzy, is very inspiring. She leads with her heart, and she’s true to her values — that's what I respect about her the most. We are both constantly learning from each other, and it’s a beautiful relationship.”

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Sarah Aldin, ’25, WILC Operations Chair: 

“My manager during my first internship, Mai Abu Kaff, believed in me. She gave me real responsibility at a young age, trusted me to figure things out and taught me so many foundational business skills. The way she supported me and pushed me to do more has had a lasting impact on how I work and lead today.”

Are there any other women you’d like to give a shoutout to? 

Emily Brown:

“My sister has always been my role model. She’s autistic, and growing up with her has taught me so much — from learning to enjoy the little things in life to leading with empathy. I’ve learned so much from her, and I’m grateful for the perspective she has given me.”

Sara Cardenas: 

“All the women. The women in the workforce, the women at home. We’re one big support system, and I’m so grateful for every woman in my life.”

Shaping the Future, Together 

As a testament to our mission, this year’s sold-out Women in Leadership Conference showcased the resilience and ambition of our Rice Business community — and sparked important conversations that will continue to empower women in the years to come.