Yesterday, the Greater Atlantic City Chamber was proud to host our Women in Leadership Panel at Stockton University, bringing together four exceptional female leaders from diverse backgrounds and industry sectors. The event, proudly sponsored by Atlantic City Electric, Fox Rothschild, and TD Bank, provided a platform for candid conversation about the challenges, opportunities, and unique perspectives women bring to leadership roles.
Our dynamic panel featured Maisha Moore, Deputy Executive Director, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA); Michele Siekerka, Esq., President and CEO, New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA); Kristin McEvoy, Director of External Affairs, Atlantic City Electric; and Bridget Sykes, Partner, Fox Rothschild. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Joanna Gagis, Senior Correspondent for NJ Spotlight News.
A significant portion of the discussion centered around how women can navigate environments where they may be underestimated. The panelists shared experiences of entering rooms where their expertise was questioned and highlighted how thorough preparation became their most powerful tool. Maisha Moore recounted a particularly telling experience where she was walked by in a meeting, with the person assuming someone else was the decision-maker. Her powerful response: “They will come back.” Similarly, Kristin McEvoy described situations where people would approach her male counterpart first, only to be redirected back to her as the actual authority on the matter. Bridget Sykes spoke about her experiences in complex real estate deals, noting that being the most prepared person in the room shifts the dynamic dramatically. “Being underestimated can become an advantage,” was a sentiment echoed by several panelists, who discussed how low expectations can create powerful opportunities to demonstrate leadership and expertise.
When asked about the skillsets that help them command presence in their work, our panelists emphasized clear, direct communication; building strategic relationships; emotional intelligence; technical expertise in their respective fields; and the ability to navigate complex situations with confidence and adaptability. Michele Siekerka highlighted another important consideration for women in leadership positions: the awareness of appropriate business attire, noting that presentation can impact how women are perceived in professional settings.
The panel engaged in a thoughtful discussion about gender and diversity in hiring and leadership. Without delving into politics, the speakers addressed the tangible benefits of diverse leadership teams and inclusive workplaces. Siekerka observed that companies with diverse leadership teams consistently outperform those without, presenting the business case for inclusion beyond social considerations. The panelists discussed how organizations can thoughtfully approach diversity initiatives while focusing on qualifications and merit.
In one of the more personal segments of the evening, panelists shared candid reflections on managing demanding careers while maintaining healthy personal lives. They acknowledged the ongoing challenges women face in balancing professional advancement with family responsibilities. The conversation highlighted the importance of supportive workplaces, the strategic use of time, and the necessity of self-care.
The panelists agreed that mentorship is particularly vital for women navigating industries where female representation in leadership remains low. Collectively, the panel emphasized that advancing more women into leadership positions requires intentional effort from current leaders, organizations, and women themselves. They discussed the progress made—with women now comprising approximately 10% of Fortune 500 CEOs—while acknowledging that the pace of change remains insufficient.
The panel concluded with advice for young women building their careers, with an emphasis on developing confidence and advocating for yourself; building networks and finding mentors; continuously expanding your skillset; taking calculated risks; and supporting other women.
The event drew an engaged audience who participated in a lively Q&A session. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the panel as “inspiring,” “insightful,” and “empowering.” Several attendees noted how valuable it was to hear candid perspectives from women who have successfully navigated leadership journeys in different sectors.
The Greater Atlantic City Chamber extends sincere gratitude to our host, Stockton University, and our sponsors Atlantic City Electric, Fox Rothschild, and TD Bank for making this important conversation possible. We also thank our remarkable panelists and moderator for sharing their time, wisdom, and experiences. Events like yesterday’s panel highlight the Chamber’s commitment to fostering leadership development and providing platforms for important conversations. We look forward to continuing these discussions and supporting the advancement of diverse leadership across our region.
For information about upcoming Chamber events and initiatives, please visit our website or contact our office.
