--- title: WEST Wisdom | Giving Back description: Giving Back | --- [![Home](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/West%20August2017/Img/west%202016.jpg)](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/home) # WEST Wisdom Blog ## [WEST Leadership's Winter Traditions](https://info.westorg.org/blog/west-leaderships-winter-traditions) Posted by [Courtney Cyron](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/courtney-cyron) on Dec 12, 2023 12:20:27 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/WEST%20Winter%20Traditions%20Cover%20Image.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/west-leaderships-winter-traditions) > This time of year many of us are celebrating a diverse range of traditions, with common themes of joy, community, and generosity. Whether your family celebrates one holiday or many, whether you have a single tradition or many, there is a little something to fill each and every one of us with joy during this time.  > >   > > WEST Leadership has put together a few of the traditions that hold a special place in their hearts at this time of year. We hope you have the opportunity to celebrate your own traditions and take some time to reflect, relax and recharge as the year comes to a close. > We look forward to seeing you in the new year as we kick of our 2024 programming. Click [here](https://www.westorg.org/upcoming-events) to learn more and register! > >   > > > >   > > > >   > > > >   > > > > > > > >   [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/west-leaderships-winter-traditions) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/west-leaderships-winter-traditions#comments-listing) Topics: [Leadership](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leadership), [Boston](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/boston), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Giving](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving), [Holiday](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/holiday), [STEM Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem-women), [Traditions](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/traditions) ## [Being on a Board May Be the Career Tip You Didn't Know You Needed](https://info.westorg.org/blog/being-on-a-board-may-be-the-career-tip-you-didnt-know-you-needed) Posted by [Courtney Cyron](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/courtney-cyron) on Jun 14, 2023 2:31:51 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/2023-06-21%202x1%20(1).jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/being-on-a-board-may-be-the-career-tip-you-didnt-know-you-needed) Being part of a Board of Directors can seem like an exclusive, illusive position. It can seem like no matter how much you would really love to be part of an organization’s success, how much you’d like to support a nonprofit’s goal, being on the Board of Directors can feel out of reach. For many, it’s not that it’s out of reach, it’s that there isn’t always a clear path or easy to find information on requirements, process, support, or even general guidance on where to begin.  WEST knows the true value that each Board Member brings to an organization. We are always grateful for the insight, excitement, and endless pursuit of our mission that our Board Members and Advisory Board Members bring to WEST. Knowing how important Board Members are to an organization, WEST is thrilled to be bringing the event “Get on Board: Inside the Board of Directors” to our community. [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/being-on-a-board-may-be-the-career-tip-you-didnt-know-you-needed) 1 Comment [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/being-on-a-board-may-be-the-career-tip-you-didnt-know-you-needed#comments-listing) Topics: [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Panel](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/panel), [Networking](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/networking), [Industry](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/industry), [Business](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/business), [Influence](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/influence), [Developing Your Skills](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/developing-your-skills), [Board of Directors](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/board-of-directors), [Career Development](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-development), [Empowerment](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/empowerment), [New Opportunities](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/new-opportunities), [#WESTevent](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westevent) ## [2022-2023 Annual Theme Announcement](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2022-2023-annual-theme-announcement) Posted by [Courtney Cyron](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/courtney-cyron) on Oct 12, 2022 8:15:00 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/Blog%20Image%20ian-schneider-TamMbr4okv4-unsplash.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2022-2023-annual-theme-announcement) While we hoped that the COVID-19 Pandemic would come to a full close before the start of 2022, it has lingered on. The effects of this continue to impact how we work, where we work, the world we work and live in, our personal lives and relationships, and so much more. In addition to this, we have seen history come crashing down in Ukraine as the people of Ukraine have had to flee, some even separating from their families to offer the best protection they can for their children.  [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2022-2023-annual-theme-announcement) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2022-2023-annual-theme-announcement#comments-listing) Topics: [Announcements](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/announcements), [Science](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Global](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/global), [Culture](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/culture), [Annual Theme](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/annual-theme), [Professional](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/professional), [Connect](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/connect), [Collaboration](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/collaboration), [Confidence](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/confidence), [Polarities](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/polarities), [Leaders](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leaders), [Empowerment](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/empowerment), [Advocate](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advocate), [Inclusion](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inclusion), [Self-Reflection](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/self-reflection), [Diversity](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/diversity), [#WESTorg](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westorg), [Organizational Culture](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/organizational-culture), [STEM Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem-women), [Female Representation STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/female-representation-stem), [Strong Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strong-women), [Strong World](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strong-world) ## [Senior Leader Interview - Jo Viney](https://info.westorg.org/blog/interview-jo-viney) Posted by [Shreosi Ghosh](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/shreosi-ghosh) on Jan 15, 2021 4:05:11 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/Senior%20Leader%20Interview%20w%20Jo%20Viney.png) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/interview-jo-viney) Jo Viney is the President, Co-founder, and Chief Scientific Officer of Pandion Therapeutics. She is a prominent figure in the field of autoimmunity, and a past board member of WEST. She served as the WEST board’s president from 2016 - 2017, and she continues her affiliation with our organization as an active “Friend of WEST” sponsor. She is no stranger when it comes to supporting and inspiring women in the field of STEM. I recently sat down with Jo (virtually), where we talked about her journey. Her smile was infectious, and her journey struck a chord with me. [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/interview-jo-viney) 1 Comment [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/interview-jo-viney#comments-listing) Topics: [Leadership](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leadership), [Science](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science), [Transitions](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/transitions), [Career](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Interview](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/interview), [Women in STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem), [Member Spotlight](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/member-spotlight), [Biotech](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/biotech), [Rockstars](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/rockstars), [Inspiration](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspiration), [Role Models](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/role-models), [Leaders](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leaders), [Impact](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/impact), [Career Development](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-development), [Mentor](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mentor), [Advice](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advice), [Advocate](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advocate), [#WESTorg](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westorg) ## [20 Years, 20 Stories Total](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories) Posted by [Jaime Luna](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/jaime-luna) on Nov 2, 2020 12:30:00 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/2020%20Stories%20-%20Anna%20Li.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories) Celebrating WEST's 20th Anniversary with 20 stories of impact. [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories#comments-listing) Topics: [Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/events), [STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem), [Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women), [Transitions](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/transitions), [Career](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career), [Awards](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/awards), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Work Life Balance](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/work-life-balance), [Resilience](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/resilience), [Entrepreneurship](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/entrepreneurship), [Network](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/network), [Giving](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving), [Job](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/job), [negotiation](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/negotiation), [Leader](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leader), [Women in STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem), [Workshop](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/workshop), [Networking](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/networking), [Upcoming Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/upcoming-events), [Professional](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/professional), [Connect](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/connect), [Balance](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/balance), [Inspiration](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspiration), [Role Models](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/role-models), [Delegation](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/delegation), [Developing Your Skills](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/developing-your-skills), [Volunteer](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/volunteer), [Board of Directors](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/board-of-directors), [Confidence](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/confidence), [Leaders](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leaders), [Book Club](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/book-club), [Impact](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/impact), [Career Development](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-development), [New Opportunities](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/new-opportunities), [Mentor](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mentor), [Inclusion](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inclusion), [#WESTevent](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westevent), [#WESTorg](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westorg), [20th Anniversary](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/20th-anniversary), [Grow](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/grow) ## [20 Years, 20 Stories - Week 3](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories-3) Posted by [Jaime Luna](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/jaime-luna) on Sep 25, 2020 2:56:59 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/2020%20Stories%20-%20Week%203-1.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories-3) Celebrating WEST's 20th Anniversary with 20 stories of impact. This week's stories are from Chesley Chen, Maria Lalioti, Joseph Lehar, Anna Li, Enith Morillo, Makeda M, Liz O'Day, and Elizabeth Wu. [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories-3) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/20-years-20-stories-3#comments-listing) Topics: [Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/events), [Leadership](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leadership), [Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women), [Transitions](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/transitions), [Career](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career), [Awards](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/awards), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Work Life Balance](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/work-life-balance), [Resilience](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/resilience), [Entrepreneurship](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/entrepreneurship), [Network](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/network), [Giving](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving), [Job](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/job), [negotiation](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/negotiation), [Leader](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leader), [Women in STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem), [Workshop](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/workshop), [Networking](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/networking), [Upcoming Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/upcoming-events), [Professional](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/professional), [Connect](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/connect), [Balance](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/balance), [Inspiration](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspiration), [Role Models](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/role-models), [Delegation](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/delegation), [Developing Your Skills](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/developing-your-skills), [Volunteer](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/volunteer), [Board of Directors](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/board-of-directors), [Confidence](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/confidence), [Leaders](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leaders), [Book Club](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/book-club), [Impact](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/impact), [Career Development](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-development), [New Opportunities](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/new-opportunities), [Mentor](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mentor), [Inclusion](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inclusion), [#WESTevent](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westevent), [#WESTorg](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westorg), [20th Anniversary](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/20th-anniversary), [Grow](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/grow) ## [2020 WEST Making a Difference Award Nominations](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2020nominations) Posted by [Jaime Luna](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/jaime-luna) on Jan 23, 2020 1:14:11 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/2020-04-02%20Blog%20Pic.png) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2020nominations) On April 2, 2020, WEST will honor those who exemplify the mission of WEST. The two key award categories this year will be Making a Difference in the Community (e.g. running non-profit, helping in a soup kitchen, volunteering with animals) and Making a Difference for Women (e.g. supporting women's causes, mentoring, championing diversity). Do you know someone who is making a difference in one of these categories? If so, please nominate them [here](https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2020WESTAwards) by 2/6/2020. Nominations are open to the WEST community including members and the larger community of supporters, friends, and allies. Awardees will be announced mid-February.    [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2020nominations) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2020nominations#comments-listing) Topics: [Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/events), [Gender Balance](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gender-balance), [Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women), [Tech](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/tech), [Science](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science), [Nominate](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/nominate), [Awards](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/awards), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Panel](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/panel), [Network](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/network), [Giving](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving), [Inspire](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspire), [Making a Difference](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/making-a-difference), [#WESTorg](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westorg), [Be Fearless, Be Brave](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/be-fearless-be-brave), [Gender Parity](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gender-parity) ## [2019 #WESTawards: Own It #WESTorg](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2019-west-awards) Posted by [Diana Anderson](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/diana-anderson) on Jan 14, 2019 8:15:00 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/WEST-Giving%20Back%20Award%202017-186_web.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2019-west-awards) **Join WESTorg at Takeda on Wednesday, January 23, 2019, for the #WESTawards to honor individuals in the Boston science and technology community that embody WEST’s 2018-2019 theme, ‘Own It: Empowering Your Career & Your Life’.**  WEST is a learning community that provides women in the enterprise of science and technology with the inspiration, knowledge and connections to reach their full potential. Please join #WESTorg and our sponsors, Takeda, Johnson & Johnson and Safety Partners at Takeda’s Cambridge offices for the 2019 #WESTawards and Networking Night to honor individuals in Boston’s STEM community who embody WEST’s mission and our ‘Own It’ theme in their service of inclusivity and empowerment in STEM and STEM initiatives that benefit the community at large. [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2019-west-awards) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/2019-west-awards#comments-listing) Topics: [Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/events), [Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women), [Science](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science), [Career](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career), [Awards](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/awards), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Interview](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/interview), [Cambridge](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/cambridge), [Success](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/success), [Network](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/network), [Inspire](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspire), [Women in STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem), [Networking](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/networking), [Upcoming Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/upcoming-events), [Professional](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/professional), [Biotech](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/biotech), [Rockstars](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/rockstars), [Connect](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/connect), [Making a Difference](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/making-a-difference), [Inspiration](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspiration), [Role Models](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/role-models), [Volunteer](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/volunteer), [Compensation](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/compensation), [Strengths](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strengths), [Support](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/support), [Leaders](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leaders), [Impact](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/impact), [Own It](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/own-it), [Sponsor](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/sponsor), [Advocate](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advocate) ## [Senior Leader Interview with Career Insights from Sandra Glucksmann](https://info.westorg.org/blog/sandra-glucksmann) Posted by [WEST Volunteer](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/west-volunteer) on Aug 21, 2018 12:42:13 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/Sandra%20Picture.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/sandra-glucksmann) Sandra Glucksmann, CEO of Cedilla Therapeutics and a founding board member of WEST, sat down with us to share her experience and lessons learned over her 25-year career in biotech. Sandra holds a PhD in molecular genetics and cell biology from the University of Chicago and carried out her post-doctorate work at MIT. Sandra’s career path spanned both science and business. She attributes her success to being open to new opportunities that were not necessarily in her wheel house and to cultivating a strong network. After working as a bench scientist for eleven years at Millennium, she made a mid-career shift into the business side of biotech. She believes that staying deeply connected with her science background gave her a leg-up when developing her corporate presence in biotech.  [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/sandra-glucksmann) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/sandra-glucksmann#comments-listing) Topics: [Leadership](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leadership), [Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women), [Science](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science), [Career](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Interview](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/interview), [Success](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/success), [Network](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/network), [Inspire](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspire), [Leader](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leader), [Women in STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem), [Presence](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/presence), [Biotech](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/biotech), [Business](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/business), [Change](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/change), [Connect](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/connect), [Developing Your Skills](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/developing-your-skills), [Strengths](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strengths), [Career Development](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-development), [Influence Without Authority](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/influence-without-authority), [PhD](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/phd), [New Opportunities](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/new-opportunities), [Mentor](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mentor), [Sponsor](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/sponsor), [Advice](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advice), [Risk](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/risk), [Ask](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/ask), [Learn](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/learn) ## [Real-life Super Heroes](https://info.westorg.org/blog/gba2018) Posted by [WEST Board Member](https://info.westorg.org/blog/author/west-board-member) on Jan 11, 2018 9:44:00 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![](https://info.westorg.org/hubfs/WEST-Giving%20Back%20Award%202017-153_web.jpg) ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/gba2018) **Meet some “Wonder Women” and “Super Men” at the WEST 10th Annual Giving Back Awards!**   For most of us, working all day and managing to get dinner on the table is heroic. For others, like **Sara Nochur**, working all day is a prelude to fundraising that enables young children in rural India to stay in school by providing them with homes, food, and shelter. Or for **Elizabeth O’Day,** it’s starting a non-profit organization that recycles electronics and uses the resale profits to build computer centers in orphanages around the world. If these sound like incredible feats, it’s because they are. And yet amazing people working in our local STEM community are doing those extraordinary things, and much more.  [Read More](https://info.westorg.org/blog/gba2018) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://info.westorg.org/blog/gba2018#comments-listing) Topics: [Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/events), [STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem), [Women](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women), [Tech](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/tech), [Science](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science), [Career](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career), [Awards](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/awards), [Community](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community), [Giving Back](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back), [Life](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/life), [Cambridge](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/cambridge), [Success](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/success), [Women in STEM](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem), [Networking](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/networking), [Upcoming Events](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/upcoming-events), [Female](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/female), [Balance](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/balance), [Making a Difference](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/making-a-difference), [Inspiration](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspiration), [Role Models](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/role-models), [Volunteer](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/volunteer) [All posts](https://info.westorg.org/blog/all) [Next](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back/page/2) ### Subscribe to Email Updates ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Topic - [Career (159)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career) - [Women in STEM (152)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-stem) - [Women (150)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women) - [Community (138)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/community) - [Upcoming Events (129)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/upcoming-events) - [Events (123)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/events) - [Networking (106)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/networking) - [#WESTevent (99)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westevent) - [Career Development (96)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-development) - [Leadership (92)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leadership) - [#WESTorg (87)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/westorg) - [Science (75)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/science) - [Developing Your Skills (63)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/developing-your-skills) - [Connect (61)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/connect) - [Cambridge (54)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/cambridge) - [Communication (48)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/communication) - [Tech (47)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/tech) - [Discussion (46)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/discussion) - [Success (46)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/success) - [Inspiration (45)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspiration) - [Biotech (44)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/biotech) - [Impact (44)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/impact) - [Empowerment (43)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/empowerment) - [Professional (43)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/professional) - [Network (41)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/network) - [STEM (41)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem) - [Career Path (40)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-path) - [Leaders (40)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leaders) - [Interactive (38)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/interactive) - [Panel (35)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/panel) - [Be Fearless, Be Brave (33)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/be-fearless-be-brave) - [Confidence (33)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/confidence) - [Learn (33)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/learn) - [Own It (33)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/own-it) - [Resilience (33)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/resilience) - [Advocate (31)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advocate) - [Self-Awareness (29)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/self-awareness) - [Challenges (28)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/challenges) - [Career Possibilities (27)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/career-possibilities) - [Inclusion (27)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inclusion) - [Role Models (26)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/role-models) - [Change (25)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/change) - [Transitions (25)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/transitions) - [Values (25)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/values) - [Diversity (24)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/diversity) - [Resources (24)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/resources) - [Workshop (24)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/workshop) - [Advice (23)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/advice) - [Interview (23)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/interview) - [STEM Women (23)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem-women) - [Self-Reflection (22)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/self-reflection) - [Work Life Balance (22)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/work-life-balance) - [Awards (21)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/awards) - [Inspire (21)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/inspire) - [Tools (21)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/tools) - [Leader (19)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leader) - [New Opportunities (19)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/new-opportunities) - [Webinar (19)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/webinar) - [Women in Business (19)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/women-in-business) - [D&I (18)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/di) - [Relationships (18)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/relationships) - [Support (18)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/support) - [Giving Back (17)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back) - [Strengths (17)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strengths) - [Balance (16)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/balance) - [Gender Balance (16)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gender-balance) - [Influence (16)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/influence) - [Gender Parity (15)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gender-parity) - [Leading Ourselves (15)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/leading-ourselves) - [Life (15)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/life) - [Making a Difference (15)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/making-a-difference) - [Mentoring (15)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mentoring) - [goals (15)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/goals) - [Coaching (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/coaching) - [Insight (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/insight) - [Mentor (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mentor) - [Rockstars (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/rockstars) - [STEM Leadership (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stem-leadership) - [Strong Women (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strong-women) - [negotiation (14)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/negotiation) - [Annual Theme (13)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/annual-theme) - [Board of Directors (13)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/board-of-directors) - [Boston (13)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/boston) - [Culture (13)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/culture) - [Equity (13)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/equity) - [Grow (13)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/grow) - [Business (12)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/business) - [Identity (12)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/identity) - [Job (12)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/job) - [Emotional Intelligence (11)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/emotional-intelligence) - [Female Representation STEM (11)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/female-representation-stem) - [Giving (11)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving) - [Management (11)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/management) - [Mindfulness (11)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mindfulness) - [Decision Making (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/decision-making) - [Financial Planning (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/financial-planning) - [Gender Pay Gap (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gender-pay-gap) - [Innovation (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/innovation) - [Lessons Learned (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/lessons-learned) - [Member Spotlight (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/member-spotlight) - [Purpose (10)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/purpose) - [20th Anniversary (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/20th-anniversary) - [Best Practices (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/best-practices) - [Change Management (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/change-management) - [Corporate Culture (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/corporate-culture) - [Empathy (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/empathy) - [Gender Balance, STEM (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gender-balance-stem) - [Organizational Culture (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/organizational-culture) - [Speed Networking (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/speed-networking) - [Wealth Management (9)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/wealth-management) - [Book Club (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/book-club) - [Collaboration (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/collaboration) - [Entrepreneurship (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/entrepreneurship) - [Hiring Women in STEM (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/hiring-women-in-stem) - [Influence Without Authority (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/influence-without-authority) - [Personal Branding (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/personal-branding) - [Strong World (8)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strong-world) - [Compensation (7)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/compensation) - [Equal Pay (7)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/equal-pay) - [Financial (7)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/financial) - [Growth (7)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/growth) - [Team (7)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/team) - [Ally (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/ally) - [Allyship (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/allyship) - [Announcements (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/announcements) - [Conflict Resolution (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/conflict-resolution) - [Engage (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/engage) - [Focus (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/focus) - [Trust (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/trust) - [Vision (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/vision) - [You (6)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/you) - [#MemberSpotlight (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/memberspotlight) - [Breakfast (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/breakfast) - [Competence (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/competence) - [Experience (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/experience) - [Female (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/female) - [Lead (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/lead) - [Solutions (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/solutions) - [Storytelling (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/storytelling) - [Strategies (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/strategies) - [Venture Capital/VC (5)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/venture-capital-vc) - [20 Inspirational Leaders (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/20-inspirational-leaders) - [Choice (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/choice) - [Conversations (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/conversations) - [Delegation (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/delegation) - [Fearlessness (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/fearlessness) - [Feedback (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/feedback) - [Grit (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/grit) - [Holiday (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/holiday) - [Industry (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/industry) - [Nominate (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/nominate) - [Personality (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/personality) - [Presentation (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/presentation) - [Research & Development (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/research-development) - [Volunteer (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/volunteer) - [Women's History Month (4)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/womens-history-month) - [Academia (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/academia) - [Author Chat (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/author-chat) - [Bias (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/bias) - [Broadway (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/broadway) - [Business Development (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/business-development) - [Digital (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/digital) - [Discount (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/discount) - [Donation (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/donation) - [Earth Day (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/earth-day) - [Economics (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/economics) - [Excellence (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/excellence) - [Imposter Syndrome (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/imposter-syndrome) - [International Women's Day (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/international-womens-day) - [Introvert (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/introvert) - [Life Science VC (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/life-science-vc) - [MBA (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mba) - [Marketing (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/marketing) - [Open Innovation (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/open-innovation) - [Operational (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/operational) - [Outreach (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/outreach) - [Parenting (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/parenting) - [PhD (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/phd) - [Presence (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/presence) - [Problem Solving (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/problem-solving) - [Public Speaking (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/public-speaking) - [Risk (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/risk) - [Roadmap (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/roadmap) - [STEAM (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/steam) - [Sponsor (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/sponsor) - [Start-Up (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/start-up) - [Summer Reads (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/summer-reads) - [Talent (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/talent) - [The Arts (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/the-arts) - [Voice (3)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/voice) - [Assessment (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/assessment) - [Boundaries (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/boundaries) - [Clarity (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/clarity) - [Computing (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/computing) - [Devices (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/devices) - [Global (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/global) - [Gratitude (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gratitude) - [Grit, Growth, Gratitude (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/grit-growth-gratitude) - [Healthcare (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/healthcare) - [Hiring (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/hiring) - [Holiday Party (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/holiday-party) - [Investing (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/investing) - [LGBTQIA+ (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/lgbtqia) - [Membership (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/membership) - [Mom (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/mom) - [Organizational Change (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/organizational-change) - [Overwhelm (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/overwhelm) - [Passion (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/passion) - [Polarities (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/polarities) - [Stereotypes (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stereotypes) - [Sustainability (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/sustainability) - [Working Remotely (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/working-remotely) - [unConference (2)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/unconference) - [25th Anniversary (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/25th-anniversary) - [Agriculture (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/agriculture) - [Ask (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/ask) - [CEO (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/ceo) - [Digitial (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/digitial) - [Disability (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/disability) - [Equity Management (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/equity-management) - [Food Science (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/food-science) - [Gifts (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/gifts) - [Giving Tuesday (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-tuesday) - [Healing and Hope (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/healing-and-hope) - [Health (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/health) - [IP (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/ip) - [IT (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/it) - [Independent Consulting (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/independent-consulting) - [Intellectual Property (IP) (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/intellectual-property-ip) - [Listen (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/listen) - [Medical (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/medical) - [Patents (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/patents) - [Podcasts (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/podcasts) - [Reflect, Reimagine, Emerge Stronger (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/reflect-reimagine-emerge-stronger) - [Resume (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/resume) - [Retaining Talent (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/retaining-talent) - [Sleep (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/sleep) - [Stock (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/stock) - [Time Management (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/time-management) - [Trademarks (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/trademarks) - [Traditions (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/traditions) - [Value (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/value) - [Vote (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/vote) - [Waltham (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/waltham) - [Women's Health (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/womens-health) - [law (1)](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/law) [see all](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back#) [Member Login](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/login) [Search](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back#) - [Home](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/) - [About ](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/about) - [About WEST](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/about-west) - [Staff and Board of Directors](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/staff-and-board-of-directors) - [Advisory Board](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/advisory-board) - [Contact](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/contact) - [Blog](https://info.westorg.org/blog) - [WEST Events](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/west-events) - [Upcoming Events](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/upcoming-events) - [Past Events](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/past-events) - [Event Photo Gallery](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/event-photo-gallery) - [Event Scholarships](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/event-scholarships) - [Sponsorship](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/sponsorship) - [Sponsorship Benefits](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/sponsorship-benefits) - [WEST Sponsors](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/west-sponsors) - [Individual Donations](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/individual-donations) - [Membership](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/membership) - [Member Benefits](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/member-benefits) - [Join](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/join) - [Member Spotlight](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/member-spotlight) - [Volunteers](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/volunteers) - [Volunteer Opportunities](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/volunteer-opportunities) - [Volunteer Spotlight](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/volunteer-spotlight) - [Resources](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/volunteers) - [Job Postings](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/job-postings) - [Workshop Leaders](https://gwnew.memberclicks.net/workshop-leaders) - - - [Back to top ](https://info.westorg.org/blog/topic/giving-back#) [powered by ](http://www.memberclicks.com/)