WNY Women's Foundation to spotlight business strategies for strengthening leadership pipeline at 'What She's Made Of'

Foundation’s signature event brings together community leaders for a breakfast gathering at Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Press Release

The WNY Women’s Foundation will present “What She’s Made Of 2025.” The morning event will feature keynote speaker Kweilin Ellingrud, a senior partner at leading global management consulting firm McKinsey & Company. McKinsey’s comprehensive studies, like “Women in the Workplace,” provide actionable insights to help guide business decisions across corporate America.

“What She’s Made Of 2025” will be held from 8-11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. Tickets are available now at www.wnywomensfoundation.org.

One of the WNY Women’s Foundation’s signature events, “What She’s Made Of” brings people together in support of uplifting women in our community for an intimate gathering combining networking with an empowering keynote presentation.

“We’re very pleased to welcome Kweilin Ellingrud to Buffalo for an informative and inspirational discussion about the obstacles women face in climbing the career ladder,” said Sheri Scavone, CEO of WNY Women’s Foundation. “Attendees will have the opportunity to gain important insights, connect with peers, and leave with the confidence to advocate for themselves and for others.”

Ellingrud, co-author of “The Broken Rung,” has studied where the career ladder breaks for women, far before they reach the “glass ceiling.” Despite performing well in higher education, women lose their advantage to men upon entering the workforce, with the first promotion to manager often marking the biggest career hurdle. For every 100 men promoted to manager, only 81 women advance. This “broken rung” weakens leadership pipelines, impacts women’s lifetime earnings, and costs businesses top talent.

At “What She’s Made Of,” Ellingrud will share insight on navigating the “broken rung,” and provide businesses guidance on sustaining the leadership pipeline and achieving balanced representation.

“What She’s Made Of,” which raises critical funds to support the WNY Women’s Foundation’s mission, is made possible by presenting sponsor M&T Bank, event sponsor Delaware North, and keynote sponsor Broadview Federal Credit Union.