As part of its ongoing commitment to professional development and empowering future leaders, Arthrex recently welcomed more than 370 of its Southwest Florida employees to a Women in Leadership panel discussion at Arthrex global headquarters in Naples, Florida. Hosted by the Arthrex Women’s Network, the event brought together accomplished leaders from across the region to share insights from their professional journeys and the lessons that helped shape their careers.
Moderated by Arthrex Corporate Engagement Manager Meg Hardt, the discussion featured Florida Gulf Coast University President Aysegul Timur, PhD; Collier County Public Schools Superintendent Leslie Ricciardelli, PhD; CEO and Producing Artistic Director Kristen Coury; and Arthrex Vice President of Finance Margaret Schunko.
Throughout the discussion, panelists emphasized the importance of continuous learning, relationship building and stepping outside of one's comfort zone to grow professionally.
“I remember when, at a very young age, my mother would say to me, ‘No one can ever take away your education,’” said Dr. Ricciardelli, reflecting on the value of lifelong learning and the willingness to embrace new opportunities throughout her career.
Coury shared how pushing beyond her comfort zone helped transform Gulfshore Playhouse from an idea developed in her home into the organization's state-of-the-art performing arts center.
“It was so vitally important to be there on the ground, shaking hands, meeting people,” said Coury.
When asked about the skill that most influenced her leadership journey, Dr. Timur pointed to the importance of relationships.
“That is one of the most important skills you have to build,” she said. “Building a community and building that support around you is very important.”
Dr. Timur also shared how the support of community leaders, including Arthrex President and Founder Reinhold Schmieding, influenced her leadership journey as the fifth president of Florida Gulf Coast University.
Schunko echoed the importance of relationship building, describing how learning about different areas of the business and developing trust with colleagues helped her grow throughout her career at Arthrex.“I really think having the benefit of going out and meeting all the different leaders helped me here at Arthrex,” Schunko said. “To get to know people, get them to learn about me and for me to learn about them - forming that trust in those relationships.”
While each panelist represented a different industry, their messages aligned around the power of relationships, continuous learning and embracing new opportunities for growth. Through events like the Women in Leadership Panel Discussion, the Arthrex Women's Network continues to create opportunities for employees to learn from accomplished leaders and gain valuable perspectives on professional and personal development.
The Arthrex Women’s Network is a resource group for anyone employed by Arthrex who has an interest in women’s development, connecting on professional topics and personal growth.