Helen Gordon: In Conversation

An in-conversation event with the first female Chair of the University Council will take place this summer, hosted by the Women@Reading staff network.

Helen Gordon is Chief Executive of the Science Council and became Chair of the University’s Council in 2022.

She’ll be joined by Professor Elizabeth McCrum, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience), for a live in-conversation event hosted by Women@Reading on 26 June.

Hear from Helen about her career and personal journey, from training as a nurse in London, through a career in NHS practice and management before taking on leadership positions in scientific and academic organisations.

Coming to higher education later in life, she is passionate about inclusion, and mentorship as a way to inspire and encourage people to have the confidence to see themselves taking on a leadership role.

All colleagues can sign up on UoRLearn now.

Women@Reading

The Women@Reading staff network champions issues of gender equality across the University. To join Women@Reading, visit the Teams channel.

There’s also still time to fill in the Women@Reading survey and have your say on what you want from the staff network. To respond, go to the Women@Reading Teams channel and click the survey link at the top of the page. The survey closes on Friday 12th May.

What’s on this summer

Here’s the full list of events organised by Women@Reading this summer.

Imposter Syndrome: what is it and how can I overcome it?

24 May, 12:00 - 13:30 (Online)

Back by popular demand, this remote, guided session, commissioned by Women@Reading and led by People Development, will explain the different types of Imposter Syndrome and share constructive ways you can begin to overcome this negative thought cycle. Sign up on UoRLearn.

In conversation with Helen Gordon

26 June, 13:00 - 13:50 (G11, Henley Business School, Whiteknights campus)

Join Women@Reading and Helen Gordon, Chief Executive of the Science Council and first female Chair of Reading’s University Council. She will be interviewed by Professor Elizabeth McCrum, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience) and sex equality champion on the University Executive Board. The session will be recorded. Sign up on UoRLearn.

Women’s Health Café

First Wednesday of every month, 13:00 – 15:00 (Library Café, Whiteknights campus)

Share advice and support over a hot drink at this monthly session dedicated to women’s health and wellbeing. You’ll also get 50% off your first drink with a voucher from the facilitator. No need to register – just turn up.