Building & Retaining High-Impact Teams: Leadership Development and Elevating Women in Finance & IT

Kelly Taran – CIO, First American Education Finance

Robbie Campbell-Lissade – Senior Director Strategy, Planning and Analysis, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

 

Finance and IT leaders across higher education are navigating rapid change from technology transformation and enrollment declines to workforce shifts and increasing institutional complexity. At the center of it all is talent. Developing and retaining strong leaders is no longer optional; it is a strategic risk management priority.

**Led by the CIO of First American Education Finance, Kelly Taran, this panel session will explore how institutions and businesses alike are intentionally building high-performing teams while advancing women in leadership roles. Through candid conversation and real-world examples, panelists will share practical strategies for building leadership pipelines, fostering inclusive cultures, and aligning talent development with long-term institutional priorities. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to strengthen retention, elevate emerging leaders, and create more resilient, future-ready teams.

Learning Objectives

  • Led by the CIO of First American Education Finance, Kelly Taran, this panel session will explore how institutions and businesses alike are intentionally building high-performing teams while advancing women in leadership roles. Through candid conversation and real-world examples, panelists will share practical strategies for building leadership pipelines, fostering inclusive cultures, and aligning talent development with long-term institutional priorities. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to strengthen retention, elevate emerging leaders, and create more resilient, future-ready teams.
  • Evaluate approaches to building inclusive leadership pathways that support the advancement of women in traditionally male-dominated roles.
  • Apply talent development and succession planning principles to strengthen long-term institutional resilience.

CPE Available

  • 1 Credit: Personnel/Human Resources