Video: Seize this ‘Perfect Time to Act with Purpose,’ Alumna Urges Incoming Students
Judith Scimone ’00, senior vice president and chief talent officer at MetLife, co-founded the affinity group Black Business Alliance while at Yale SOM.
“You are in the perfect place at the perfect time to act with purpose,” Judith Scimone ’00 told Yale School of Management’s newest students on August 26.
Scimone, senior vice president and chief talent officer at MetLife, delivered her talk as part of a three-day virtual orientation.
Scimone discussed her time at Yale SOM—which included co-founding the affinity group Black Business Alliance—as well as what drew her to the institution and what has continued to resonate with her in the years since.
“In SOM I found a socially conscious institution and classmates who were drawn by each other’s desire to make a real difference,” she said. “Now more than ever our world needs leaders who will stand for what’s right, who will build and nurture our global community. Our leaders are called at this moment to drive positive change, enhance personal freedom, and spread empowerment. You’re likely here because you want to be a part of that movement.”
Scimone also told students that Yale SOM is an ideal training ground for becoming a leader who places inclusion and belonging at the forefront. She advised them to seize that opportunity for growth.
“Being at SOM surrounds you with diversity, open-minded thinkers, a stimulating learning environment. It’s a perfect place to practice inclusion and belonging. While you pursue these academic and career goals, it’s actually the perfect time to do the deeper personal work required to become a more inclusive leader. This intentional focus will not only serve you well over the next few years, but for many years to come.”
