Griffith University markedInternational Women’s Day todaywith an event featuring presentations from senior academics on career success, resilience and balance.

Nationally recognised as being an Employer of Choice for Women since 2001, Griffith was last year awarded anEmployer of Choice for Gender Equalityfor its commitment and best practice in promoting gender equality. It is one of only six organisations in Queensland and one of 12 universities and 90 organisations nationwide, to have been recognised in this way.

Pro Vice Chancellor and Head of Logan Campus Professor Lesley Chenoweth AO said one of the key priorities of the university’s Equity and Diversity plan was to improve the proportion of female staff in senior roles and improve the gender balance in academic and general staff roles at all levels.

“Griffith has created flexible working conditions and removed barriers that prevent staff from reaching their full potential,’’ said Professor Chenoweth, who was last year named in theAustralian Financial Review’stop 100 of Australia’s most influential women.

“I am ​honoured to be part of an organisation that has an ongoing commitment to a fair and equitable workplace that supports all staff, irrespective of gender, age, culture, sexual preference or disability.”

International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of women throughout history and the world. The theme for this year is Pledge for Parity.

“While we have come quite a way, we also know thatprogress towards gender parity has slowed in many places. The World Economic Forum predicted in 2014 that it would takeuntil 2095 to achieve global gender parity. Then in 2015, they estimated that a slowdown in the already glacial pace of progress meant thegender gap wouldn’t close entirely until 2133.

“At Griffith,​we ​have many wonderful women who contribute in ​ all kinds of ways not only ​ to​ the university but​across many​ international arenas. ​ It is important to celebrate their achievements but also to reflect on how much furtherwe have to go.”

The Cupcakes and Careers morning tea was held at Logan campustoday.