OWL: Advancing Diversity in Leadership Appoints New Executive Director, Gaynor Fries

OWL: Advancing Diversity in Leadership announced that Gaynor Fries has been appointed Executive Director of the organization.

Gaynor has been a key part of the support team behind OWL since July 2015. With a BA in Business Administration and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management from Duke University, she brings more than 25 years of experience as an administrator and management consultant to many thriving organizations.

“I am honored to be stepping into a leadership role with OWL and look forward to working more closely with the Board to fulfill OWL’s mission,” said Ms. Fries. “It is somewhat fitting that an organization devoted to advancing leadership is walking the walk, encouraging one of its own into a leadership role. I’m excited to guide OWL through the next stage in its development.”

“We are so thankful for Gaynor ‘growing up with us’ here at OWL, where she has made a lasting difference working with the board, committees and leadership team to enhance organizational and membership activities, communications, events and so many other aspects of OWL’s management,” OWL President Georgette Pascale said in a news release. “As Executive Director, her positive momentum and business savvy will help OWL progress towards our goal of advancing diversity on a global scale.”

This news comes directly after the success of OWL’s Signature & Networking events during this year’s American Academy of Cataract & Refractive Surgery meeting in Washington, D.C. The Signature event, which included panelists Jeffrey J. Kimbell, Jim Mazzo, Dr. Ahmet Tezel and Ruth Williams, generated a crowd of 200+ attendees. Overarching themes at the events included the importance of surrounding yourself with a diverse group of people, listening to a range of different of ideas, and taking risks to pursue one’s passions.