Maria Brennan

It’s been a busy year for Brennan and WICT. Under her leadership, WICT’s membership surpassed the 10,000 mark last year for the first time in its 39-year history, and WICT recently launched two new chapters—Greater Memphis-Jackson and Latin America—setting a new record in chapter numbers at 23. If the industry needs more proof that gender diversity is the way to go, all executives have to do is look at the numbers. “There is an abundance of research at our fingertips which demonstrates that strong gender diversity makes stronger, more profitable companies,” she says.

Who is your favorite current female TV character and why? 
Olivia Benson from “Law & Order: SVU,” still the biggest bad-a** on TV.

What is one way the industry can continue to evolve in ridding itself of gender discrimination?
There is an abundance of research at our fingertips which demonstrates that strong gender diversity makes stronger, more profitable companies. WICT goes a step further to benchmark gender diversity in the industry through the PAR Survey, allowing companies to know precisely where they stand. We use the PAR survey data to help companies set goals, share best practices, and put in place policies that generate progress for women.

Best advice for relieving stress? 
Unplug, detach, unwind, and take a long walk (dog optional—though highly recommended).

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