On December 12, 2024, Michael Milligan sponsored two tables at the Massachusetts Conference for Women where 18 UMass employees joined more than 11,000 attendees for a day of motivating speakers, educational workshops, and networking. The inspirational conference included workshops on a variety of topics such as inclusion, self-care in the workplace, leadership, and advancement, offering positive advice and anecdotes to further energize and promote one’s career. The theme of this year’s conference was “Power in Unity”, a message which was woven throughout the entire conference, but which especially rang true in the powerful keynote addresses. We were treated to speeches from Olympian Gail Devers, supermodel Beverly Johnson, journalist Lulu Garcia-Navarro, basketball player Caitlin Clark, journalist Robin Roberts, Governor Maura Healey, journalist Gayle King, and the one and only Oprah Winfrey.  

This annual event in the Boston Seaport will happen next year on December 3, 2025 and will again be attended by UITS and colleagues in the President’s Office.  CIO Milligan along with SVP Calise will be looking to expand the opportunity for other UMPO members. While Michael had to miss this conference to participate on the UMass Chan Medical School’s Search Committee for the selection of their new CIO, he will be there next year. Michael said to his UITS staff and the UMPO folks invited to attend this year, “I am very committed to events like this and to your development.  I am proud and happy to know I was able to commit to two tables of eager folks wanting to be part of this.  Having gone last year, I will miss it even more knowing I’ll miss Oprah.”

Thank you, Michael Milligan, for the opportunity to attend the Massachusetts Conference for Women, and we look forward to even greater conference experience next year.