Dear Columbia College Women Community,

As I write my final message as president of Columbia College Women, I find myself reflecting on what an extraordinary honor and fulfilling experience it has been to serve this highly engaged and connected community during the past two years.

Leadership is often described as building something new, but I have come to believe it is equally about stewardship — honoring what came before, nurturing what exists today and leaving an organization stronger for those who follow. Serving as CCW president has been one of the greatest honors of my Columbia journey.

Together, we have continued to strengthen CCW as a shining example of connectivity, optimism, celebration, mentorship, friendship, joy and community. In times that have felt uncertain, we have shown that the Columbia spirit is one of resilience and generosity. Through meaningful programming, thoughtful conversations, and the simple act of staying connected across geographies and experiences, we have demonstrated the power of women lifting up women.

For every good leader, there comes a time to pass the baton. It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome Iyobosa Bello-Asemota CC’19 as the next CCW president, beginning today, July 1, 2026. Iyobosa brings fresh energy, leadership skills and a deep commitment to our mission. I know she will lead CCW with vision, optimism and purpose, and I hope you will offer her the same partnership and support that you so generously extended to me.

I am also delighted to announce two new CCW executive board members: VP of CCW Strategy Rita Pietropinto-Kitt CC’93, SOA’96 and VP of CCW Governance and Operations Claire Gibson CC’06. We also welcome eight new board members; together they will help shape CCW’s future. Rather than listing the new members here, I encourage you to visit the CCW website to meet these remarkable women. Their willingness to serve reflects the best of our community, and I am grateful that so many alumnae continue to step forward as leaders.

One of the greatest joys of my presidency has been watching the CCW board evolve into a global team, with members serving from around the world. That breadth of experience and perspective has strengthened the group and expanded our reach in meaningful ways.

This past spring also reminded us of the power of bringing our community together. April’s Columbia College Women 2026 Signature Event, featuring speaker and former CEO of Xerox Ursula M. Burns SEAS’82, was a highlight of the year. It was an evening that celebrated leadership, bold thinking and the extraordinary accomplishments of Columbia women. Seeing alumnae, students, faculty and friends gather to learn from one another and celebrate our shared connection was a wonderful reflection of what makes CCW so special.

Another initiative especially close to my heart has been the Career Convo series. These alumna-student conversations have created space for mentorship, candid dialogue, career exploration and shared wisdom across industries and generations. They remind us that one of the greatest gifts of the Columbia network is our willingness to invest in one another’s success.

No president succeeds alone. I owe tremendous gratitude to our executive board, general board, committee leaders, volunteers, engaged alumnae community and the College’s Alumni Office. Thank you to everyone who attended an event, mentored a fellow alumna, participated in a Career Convo, volunteered, gathered informally on or off campus, or simply reached out to strengthen the bonds that connect us. You are the heart of this group.

As I transition to president emerita, I look forward to supporting the new leadership team and continuing to champion the mission we share. I have every confidence that the future of CCW is bright. My hope for the years ahead is that CCW continues to be a source of opportunity, inspiration, friendship and joy — a place where women and their allies around the globe feel connected to one another and proud to call this community their own.

Thank you for the privilege of serving as CCW president. Please join me in welcoming Iyobosa, as well as the new executive and general members, as they lead CCW into an exciting new chapter.

With Deepest Gratitude,

Nancy Pak CC’90, BUS’95
Columbia College Women President Emerita