Take a look back at the twelve Woman of the Month honorees from 2023
We are taking a moment to reflect on the awesome power of AEO’s Women@AEO associate network. Throughout 2023, outstanding female associates were nominated by their peer group to be recognized for their contributions to AEO’s business and associate community as “Woman of the Month.” Keep reading to learn more about this associate resource group and the twelve honorees.
About
Women@AEO fosters an environment where women are empowered and inspired to achieve their full potential. The network provides opportunities for professional development, networking, resource sharing and support. Events are hosted to expand skills, share inspiring speakers, address unique issues that women face in their careers, families and communities, and make time to give back to our communities.
January 2023
For Veerangna Dhar, Senior UI Engineer, collaborating cross-functionally and working on challenging new problems are two primary motivators in her professional life. In her personal life, Veerangna’s passion is in child welfare: “Kids are the future, and to make our future truly bright, we need to make sure that our kids are given a safe and happy childhood and a good education.”
February 2023
Motivated by family and the desire to show her daughters that they can do anything they put their minds to, Meghan Welker, Senior Manager – Store Experience, values the growth opportunities AEO offers while maintaining a work/ life balance.
March 2023
Connection, community and coaching sum up a few of Catherine Gignac’s greatest passions. The Director – Digital Experience, Design shared, “Whether it’s at work or in my personal life, I am always filled up when I have shared a meaningful conversation, experience or success with a group or an individual.”
April 2023
Whether supporting the advancement of cancer research or transforming content management tools, teamwork truly makes the dream work for Meghan Frye, Product Manager -Digital Content Strategy. “I find it extremely fulfilling to have fantastic teamwork in the workplace — it’s very rewarding to collaborate with cross-functional partners to build amazing things together!”
May 2023
If you ask Kate Navickas, Director – AE Performance Marketing, what gets her out of bed everyday, she’ll tell you working with great people. Kate’s other key passions? Setting—and crushing—goals.
June 2023
Dedicated to development at all levels, Norma Lopez, Senior District Team Leader, leads 30 stores however, still makes sure to lend her time to support IDEA initiatives.
July 2023
Known for her superpowers of calmness and positivity, Erin Abbott, VP – Aerie Merchandising has an encouraging and empowering spirit that shines bright in growing OFFL/NE by Aerie with her team.
August 2023
Technology leader and master innovator Saileesha Garapathivenkatapoorn, Manager – Engineering, uses her passion for continuous learning and growth to not only keep AEO’s core distribution system running, but also streamline workflows and optimize processes.
September 2023
With people as her primary motivator, Anais Garcia, Senior Director – Aerie Technical Design, can always be counted on for encouraging words and a kind ear. “Anais can always be counted on for professional & personal support. She is an amazing listener who truly demonstrates a care for the work and the worker.”
October 2023
Gabrielle Bontempi, Associate Manager – Customer Care Training, brings her passion for positivity and enthusiasm for people to all of her professional and personal pursuits. “I have watched so many team members grow, develop, and thrive within the company, and it is really admirable to watch them build such strong careers and be awesome leaders.”
November 2023
Dedication, loyalty and passion served as the hallmark of Cathy Torhan, Lead Application Analyst’s 36-year career with AEO. As for Cathy’s plans for retirement? “Spending uninterrupted time with my grandkids.”
December 2023
Master chef and proud mother of two, Marybeth Harris, Senior Director – Inventory Strategy and Optimization, credits her team for keeping her motivation strong. “I love how my team is willing to always take a chance and be willing to try something new with the most positive of attitudes. I couldn’t be more fortunate to work with a group of fun, caring and supportive team.”
Congrats again to all of the 2023 Woman of the Month honorees– thank you for making a REAL difference!
Women@AEO’s mission is to inspire and engage our network of associates to help them reach their full potential and to give back to the local community to support women and girls in need.
