Our Mission

The Simon Women’s Alliance (SWA) connects Simon alumni in a meaningful, ongoing, and growth-oriented way. The SWA provides opportunities and forums for alumni to link up, benefit from the experiences of a diverse group of women at all stages of their careers and lives, and find camaraderie as well as learning.

Our programs facilitate the exchange of information, experiences, and support to enable University of Rochester Simon Business School alumni to reach their full potential, both personally and professionally. The group is led by the Simon Women’s Alliance Board (below). 

While this organization centers on the experiences and perspectives of women, we welcome and encourage participation from individuals of all backgrounds, including men. Your presence, support, and engagement contribute to a richer dialogue and a more inclusive community. Your interest in these organizations demonstrates a commitment to learning, respect, and shared growth—all of which strengthen the University and move us toward a better future.

 

Membership Benefits

  • Exclusive in-person and virtual networking opportunities including: 
  • SWA receptions in large metro areas
  • Private gatherings before alumni events with speakers and fellow SWA members
  • Invitations to participate in Simon Alumni Circles, small groups of facilitated conversations on various life topics allowing for the participants to truly connect, learn and inspire one another
  • Greater connectivity to other Simon alumni for networking, professional and social opportunities

Membership Criteria

  • Connect with Simon students and/or alumni in any number of ways. Become as engaged as you want to be. Choose what suits you, such as: 
  • Be a student club speaker
  • Attend alumni events
  • Volunteer with the Admissions office
  • Engage and partner with Simon School Advancement
     

We’d love to see you at our next event!

Questions? Contact Shane Ryan, senior director of alumni engagement, via email (sryan31@simon.rochester.edu).

Anyone is welcome! 
 

Simon Women’s Alliance Board Roster 

  • Lynne Amerson ’09S (MBA), Chair
  • Senior Portfolio Manager, Northern Trust Corporation
     
  • Molly Mesko ’20S (MBA), Vice Chair
  • Director of Portfolio Development and Alliance Management, Empire Discovery Institute
     
  • Dorothy Coleman ’16S (MBA)
  • Retired CFO/SVP Government Business Division, Anthem, Inc.
     
  • Rose Cooper ’10S (MBA)
  • Manager, Sales Acceleration and Revenue Operations, Paychex
     
  • Kristen Duckles ’19S (MBA)
     
  • Kelli Duprey ’93S (MBA)
  • Partner, K&PD Consulting
     
  • Kristine Lemke ’87, ’88S (MBA)
  • Independent Strategy, Commercialization and Business Consultant
     
  • Carla Nunes ’98S (MBA)
  • Managing Director, Global Leader of Valuation Digital Solutions, Kroll
     
  • Julie Richards ’90S (MBA)
  • Community Volunteer
     
  • Debbie Saik ’94, ’96S (MBA)
  • Sales Director, Lumentum
     
  • Lena Wiedemann ’18S (MBA)
  • VP, Senior Vice President- Commercial Lending Product, M&T Bank