Approximately 30 Mary Baldwin students attended the Female Leadership Initiative at Pfizer offices in Richmond on November 6. Mary Baldwinalumna and Pfizer Senior Associate ScientistKamala Chapman ’05 organizes theprogram each year.
“I began this career day at Pfizer to give back to Mary Baldwin and provide students with a first-hand experience of life within the pharmaceutical industry,” Chapman said. “In the past, the day was open only to students from Mary Baldwin, Sweet Briar, and Hollins. “This year, it wasexpanded to include students from Virginia Commonwealth University, Randolph Macon, the University of Richmond, and Virginia Union. All students who attendedare granted priority in the summer intern application process.”
Joining the student contingent were three faculty members — Associate Professor of Business Janet Ewing, Assistant Professor of Chemistry Maria Craig, and Associate Professor of Business Claire Kent—and Nell Desmond, director of the Vantage Point:Office of Personal and Professional Development.
“ had the most attendees at the event, and it was no surprise theyasked the most interesting questions and demonstrated leadership and positive presence throughout the day,” Desmond said. “It was a wonderful day of learning, and networking for students.”
Throughout the day, students were introduced to over-the-counter product development and business at ʴھwith an emphasis on womenin the industry. In particular, thecareer day focused on the scientific and business aspects of the pharmaceutical industry from an undergraduate perspective.