Mission Statement

The mission of UPWARD MEN is to provide coaching, education and support for women in their career advancement and professional development by:

• Building a network in support of women’s leadership and development

• Establishing professional relationships from other leaders

• Engaging in topical discussions and career programming supporting women

Why UPWARD Men

“We cannot fully empower women and girls without also engaging men and boys, and when we do, we find out that gender equality is a good thing for men as well as women.” (Michael Kimmel)

If women are to make significant progress in the advancement of their careers, the relationships and support of men are going to be vital in their advancement. It’s crucial that we begin engaging men in the advancement of women leadership as a priority to an organization’s operational strategy and change initiative.

In an article by Harvard Business Review, it is stated that evidence shows that “when men are deliberately engaged in gender inclusion programs, 96% of organizations see progress — compared to only 30% of organizations where men are not engaged”. Studies also show that boards with women will out perform those with no women on their board. And, overall gender parity has shown correlation with increased productivity, revenue, customer, and profits.

With the majority of men as senior leaders, there is a high regard in necessitating men in the discussion, roles, and events for women advancement. Creating diversity will create the disruption needed to make significant progress for women leadership. By bridging men and women in an educational, supportive, and intentional partnership, more will succeed.