Sam is a Business Marketing Manager at altafiber. She has been working full time since she graduated from Miami University (Oxford, OH) in 2020. She serves as a leader of our women's employee resource group, ARROW.
In honor of Women's History Month, we sat down with her to discuss how ARROW has impacted women at altafiber and what Women's History Month means to her.
ARROW stands for 'Advancing Resources and Representation Of Women'. altafiber ARROW aims to create a space that fosters a community among employees, especially women. ARROW welcomes diverse viewpoints and seeks to learn from others' experiences.
Q: How does ARROW provide a space to foster women at altafiber and outside of altafiber? What events does ARROW hold?
As a company, altafiber does a great job at giving women the resources and environment to professionally and personally grow. The amount of women we have in leadership positions can attest to that. One of many initiatives ARROW has is bringing in these women in leadership positions within the company to talk about their experiences. We also bring in outside leaders from small and local businesses to talk about their challenges and success stories.
Every other year, we host a large “Rise” event, which typically includes a conference or some sort of networking activity. Last year we went to Camp Joy for team building, and it’s actually been one of my favorite memories in my career at altafiber so far. We also hold happy hours, coffee runs and more to get to know each other outside of professional settings.
Lastly, volunteering is huge with our employee resource group. Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank is one of the few nonprofits we give back to each year and many of our members favorite part about ARROW.
Q: Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day? What does it mean to you?
It is important to celebrate International Women’s Day and Women's History Month because it gives credit where credit is due. Celebrating this month allows for women to stand out, especially with a day dedicated to being recognized. I think this month is often an eye-opener for a lot of people, and acts as a push for women to be appreciated for their contributions at all times, not just in March.
Q: What's the most valuable piece of advice you can pass on to anyone, especially women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for gender equality?
One thing I like to pass on to other women establishing their careers is confidence. Confidence can bring you a long way, especially in the workplace. Focus on presenting yourself in a way that comes off strong to others, with positive self-talk and putting yourself in uncomfortable situations to grow…fake it ‘til you make it if you have to!
Q: If you could have dinner with one inspirational woman, who would it be and why?
Michelle Obama is a woman that comes to mind. To me, she was the first First Lady in my generation to really make a name for herself, independent of her husband’s work. The Obamas seem to have an equal, respectful relationship which I always loved, too. Michelle exudes confidence and really just seems like a great person to have dinner with!
Learn more about how altafiber and ARROW are involved in the community and make a difference in diversity and inclusion by visiting the button below!
