Women employees across the University of Utah, from staff to faculty, are finding connection through the Utah Women in Higher Education Network, UWHEN. For nearly 14 years, the network has been providing opportunities for professional development, networking, and community building for women who work in higher education throughout Utah.
When Lisa Rightrup, operations manager at the U’s Institutional Review Board, came to the institution in 2006, she had never heard of UWHEN University of Utah Chapter. As of this May, she’s now a board member.
“I’m finding that this is common for folks who have been at the U for a long time,” she said. “We go about our lives for sometimes decades and don’t hear about some of these groups.”
Through events such as conferences, book clubs, wellness walks, and social mixers, UWHEN University of Utah Chapter creates spaces where women can connect, share experiences, and support each other. The sense of mutual respect within the organization is palpable, fostering an environment where women feel empowered to grow both personally and professionally.
For Rightrup, UWHEN has been more than just a professional network, it’s been a source of personal and career development. As she began attending UWHEN events, including the annual conference, she quickly realized the value of this unique organization.
“The UWHEN Annual Conference was hundreds of working professionals, women from all over the state,” Rightrup said. “It was a really cool experience, being able to commiserate with other women who are working in professional settings and trying to lift each other up.”
As a manager, she found the conference’s sessions on leadership especially valuable as she learns how to support her team in a post-pandemic environment where some members work remotely.
“Hearing how others have navigated similar situations has been really helpful,” Rightrup said.
Cassie Cathcart, the new director of UWHEN’s University of Utah Chapter, shared her enthusiasm about Rightrup joining the board. According to Cathcart her involvement has been a welcome addition to the organization. Having served on staff council and previously participated as a general member of UWHEN, Rightrup brings with her not only valuable connections but also a deep understanding of the university’s structure and culture.
Cathcart believes she can help support the chapter’s mission to expand its reach and strengthen its network on campus. Cathcart emphasized that Rightrup’s proactive engagement, particularly in social events and discussions, has helped maintain momentum during a transitional summer period. As the organization moves forward, there is great anticipation for the contributions Rightrup will make in continuing to promote UWHEN’s mission and supporting its future growth.
The impact of these opportunities extends beyond the individual. As more women engage with UWHEN, they bring back new ideas and approaches to their own departments and teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation across the university.
“What makes UWHEN special is the diverse group of women who come together to support each other,” Rightrup said. “We all share common experiences, but the different perspectives and backgrounds make it a really unique and powerful community.”
As UWHEN continues to grow and evolve, its potential to positively impact women at the University of Utah and beyond becomes increasingly clear. The organization’s commitment to empowering women, fostering professional development, and building a supportive community positions it as a vital resource for those seeking to advance their careers and connect with like-minded peers.
For women at the University of Utah, UWHEN represents an opportunity to be part of something greater, a network that not only supports individual growth but also contributes to the collective advancement of women in higher education. As more women discover and engage with UWHEN, the organization’s influence will undoubtedly continue to expand, paving the way for future generations of women leaders.