Four local top businesswomen and one businessman discussed leadership and networking with emerging business professionals at an event hosted by Prudential called “Wine, Wealth and Women” on Thursday, Nov. 8 at Times Ten Cellar. Two SMU students attended the event.

Liz Morris, Leigh Barnes, Emily Stroud, Stephanie Michelle and Rich Cavaness discussed topics such as mentorship and leading with authenticity.

“I believe it is probably your character, morals, and values that create who you are,” Morris said. “But you can have those things and still not be authentic because you are constantly trying to be someone else.”

“As long as you let the world dictate you who you think you want to be then you will never be authentic,” Morris continued.

In addition to the panel, there was time allotted for socializing, drinking and eating. Student Cate Mason attended the event to network and meet business professionals from the Dallas area.

“Networking events are an essential part of success because they expose you to so many people you would have never met otherwise,” Mason said. “I love going to them because they are filled with opportunities that could change my life.”

“Networking events are an essential part of success because they expose you to so many people you would have never met otherwise.”

Chandler Nichols, who is the talent acquisition manager with Prudential, helped plan and host the event to promote mentorship, leadership and success of women in a variety of industries.

“I am very passionate in financial services and bringing women together to empower each other,” Nichols said. “In general, women are so powerful. We are just unleashing our potential. It’s only 2018, and I can’t wait to see what is going to happen in 2019.”