Mary Talks Round III: Glenn Close Theater

Sunday, September 14, 2025 | 11:15 am - 12:15 pm

Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) Memorial Hall, Glenn Close Theater

Mary Talks — our version of TEDx talks — spotlight alumnae, faculty and staff as they speak about their passions and how they hope to change the world in ways big and small. Each block showcases a lineup of presenters sharing personal insights, big ideas and bold perspectives on issues that matter to women. You’ll leave informed, inspired and energized.

Leading Authentically Through Grief | Jennifer A. Hess Hodge ’90

After her husband died in an accident, Jennifer Hess Hodge ’90 continued to serve as a senior government executive, leading teams while grieving. Thanks to her organization’s support, she began to heal and find her voice again. In this talk, Hodge touches on personal grief but focuses on the lessons she learned as she shifted her leadership perspective, approaching problem solving, strategy and human capital with renewed authenticity.

We Are All DEI | Rev. Enger “Allen” Muteteke ’00

Diversity, equity and inclusion is a recent movement with ties to the Civil Rights movement, the Jim Crow era and affirmative action. The history of the United States, over time, has included striving for equality and equity in every generation for all people. This talk posits that diversity, equity and inclusion is the story of all of us. Activities and reflections are included.

My Quantum Leap of Faith — How Facing My Fear of Failure Led to Success | Kaniah Whitehorn Konkoly-Thege ’98

In high school, Kaniah Whitehorn Konkoly-Thege ’98 dreamed of being a biologist but struggled with physics. A teacher told her girls weren’t as good at physics as boys, and she believed him, leading her to shy away from science for fear of failure. Now, Konkoly-Thege is the chief legal officer for the largest quantum computing company in the world. She got there by learning to face failure, blocking out the naysayers and trusting herself. It’s her goal to inspire other women to face their own fears, break out of their molds and pursue their dreams.

Navigating Distressing Times: Lessons in Care From Relational Cultural Therapy | Dr. Michelle Perkins Lange ’04

Elon Musk said in 2025, “The fundamental weakness of Western civilization is empathy.” Patriarchy says productivity, money and quantity are king. But king of what kind of kingdom? In this talk, Clinical Psychologist Michelle Lange will share lessons from Relational Cultural Theory, a feminist perspective that offers guidance for how, in times where we feel despairing and isolated, to care for and empower ourselves and those who are dear to us.