By: Grace Eberts (EIC)
The Business Pride Network (BPN) is a student organization here at GW focused on building a community at the intersection of LGBTQIA+ issues and the business world.
Kate Dressel is a Junior studying Business Analytics and Finance in GWSB and is the president of BPN. You may recognize BPN from their recent feature on the Student Life Instagram– check out Kate’s “10 Questions” video! Recently, The Local had a chance to speak with Kate and learn more about her organization and what they are doing here on campus.
What is the main objective behind starting the BPN?
“The main objective behind starting the Business Pride Network was to provide and promote an inclusive community on GW’s campus, specifically within the business community. We aim to blend the personal and professional development of LGBTQ+ students at GW, as well as equip members with the confidence to express their identity in both personal and professional spaces. While we are geared towards undergraduate LGBTQ+ individuals/allies within GWSB, we welcome and encourage students of all majors/schools to join (in fact, 2/3 of our Executive Board is not in GWSB)!”
How often do you meet and what type of events do you host?
The BPN typically hosts 1-2 events each month. These can range from professional workshops and panel discussions to game nights and social events.
Kate said, “In early September, we partnered with other LGBTQ+ organizations on campus for an LGBTQ+ Org Mixer with pizza, music, and speed-friending. Our first General Body Meeting this year was an LGBTQ+ Culture/Resource ‘Scavenger Hunt’ where members got to team up and explore LGBTQ+ resources, spaces, and culture.”
Looking forward, BPN’s next event will be a collaboration with GW Persist, a progressive student organization focused on advocacy and campaign work. On Wednesday, October 19th at 7 PM in District B205, they will be hosting a jeopardy game night! Check it out on Engage here.
What was the transition like from “Out and About” to BPN?
Before Kate’s time at GW, BPN was previously known as “Out and About.” Around the start of the pandemic, says Kate, the organization rebranded to have a fresh start and refocus on the goals of their community.
“During my time as Treasurer last year, I was able to witness the first full year of in-person BPN event programming. As President, it has been inspiring to see the growth of our organization and to develop deeper connections with other orgs and initiatives on campus,” says Kate, as she reflects on her past two years in BPN.
What are some of the most common concerns that you hear from your members as they enter the professional workforce?
“Although every person is unique, I think a common concern among a lot of marginalized groups is whether they will be able to work in an inclusive and accepting environment. More than one in three LGBTQ+ Americans has faced discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Navigating insensitive comments in the workplace can be extremely frustrating and emotionally draining. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their workplace. I hope that we continue to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, beyond corporate messaging and truly put our words into action.”
What is a favorite event or meeting that you have had? What is your favorite part about BPN meetings?
Kate said that she loves the professional development that she experiences through BPN, but also appreciates being able to connect socially with other members.
“The first BPN event I attended was a virtual game night during the Spring of my first year at GW (which was fully virtual due to the pandemic). This is what inspired me to get more involved with the organization. I loved the low-stress environment of such an inclusive and close-knit community!”
How does BPN’s work spread beyond the GW community?
“BPN really aims to engage the community beyond GW, specifically through partnering with other LGBTQ+ organizations in the DMV area. We are currently working to host a partnership event with GW Women in Business in mid-November to volunteer for an LGBTQ+ organization.”
Kate said that BPN also tries to raise awareness of other opportunities for students interested in professional development and LGBTQIA+ rights. For example, O4U (Out for Undergrad) is a conference that helps undergraduate students in the LGBTQIA+ community find job opportunities.
Do you ever work with other orgs on campus or with GWSB? If so, what has been the benefits of these collaborations?
BPN values collaboration with other organizations on campus. Kate said, “Collaborations have become a core component of our programming, especially for this year’s E-Board. Last year, we partnered with GW Women in Business to host a panel ‘LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in the Workplace’ which won the Outstanding Initiative Award at the GWSB Student Leadership Awards. Partnering with other organizations whose values align with ours is extremely important to advance a more inclusive campus. We are so excited to continue our partnership with GWWIB, as well as develop new partnerships on campus this year.”
Personally, how has BPN helped you as you navigate your career?
“Personally, BPN has helped me gain more confidence to express my identity as a queer woman in professional settings. Growing up in Iowa, I often struggled with coming to terms with my identity. My involvement in BPN has encouraged me to prioritize my values when searching for a career and to become more vulnerable in expressing myself. I recently had the opportunity to present to the GWSB Board of Advisors about my experience as a student leader. Speaking openly about my involvement in BPN and the importance of supporting the LGBTQ+ inclusivity at GWSB was an honor. Opportunities such as these have been extremely impactful to me both personally and professionally.”
If you are interested in joining the BPN, you can fill out their 2022-2023 General Member Interest Form. To keep an eye on upcoming events and ways to get involved, follow BPN on Instagram (@businesspridenetwork)!
