Marisa C. Steward

Manager of Career and Postsecondary Success (Part-time) @Seeds of Fortune Inc.

New York, NY, US

I focus on empowering young women from historically underrepresented backgrounds by guiding them through crucial stages of career development and postsecondary planning. My role centers on not just managing services, but also strategically enhancing the impact and reach of our programs. Driving Career Success: I manage a dynamic and comprehensive suite of career development services tailored for a cohort of over 400 members. By aligning internship placements with members\' aspirations and preparing them for post-graduate opportunities, I’ve contributed to a robust 65% full-time placement rate. This success stems from an in-depth understanding of career pathways and a commitment to personalized guidance. Strategic Partnerships & Growth: I actively build and sustain partnerships with industry leaders, not merely by connecting dots but by crafting mutually beneficial collaborations that drive growth. My efforts have led to a 30% uptick in partner-affiliated internships and employment opportunities, a result of targeted relationship-building strategies and the efficient use of tools like Salesforce for tracking and communication. Innovative Programming: Beyond event management, I design and implement programs that resonate with our members\' evolving needs. From conceptualizing workforce development workshops to managing the full event lifecycle—logistics, marketing, and stakeholder engagement—my initiatives have sparked a 25% increase in sustained member participation. This demonstrates my ability to adapt programming to maximize engagement and outcomes. Leadership & Mentorship: I lead a dedicated team of professional development coaches, focusing on delivering high-impact coaching sessions that cover resume crafting, interview preparation, and industry-specific training. My approach emphasizes not just skill-building, but also fostering confidence and readiness among our members as they transition into the workforce.