Building a connection to those we work with can create increased psychological safety, the result of which is better innovation, ideation, and collaboration.
Thus, it is not a surprise that according to our latest CRN poll on Work-Life Balance in the Channel, women executives are looking for ways to connect within their organizations and across the channel at large. To help build this connection, we asked them: What is one thing most people do not know about you?
Brittany Fugate
President, CEO
Centric Network Services
One thing most people don’t know about me is my passion for board games. Beyond just a hobby, playing board games is a way for me to unwind and challenge my strategic thinking. It’s fascinating how each game requires a unique blend of strategy, skill, and sometimes a bit of luck. This interest not only serves as a creative outlet outside of work but also subtly influences my professional life. The strategic planning, problem-solving, and team dynamics inherent in these games mirror many aspects of business strategy and leadership, providing a playful yet insightful perspective on handling complex challenges.
Sarah Griffin
Director, GTM, Programs, Global Alliances
Dell Technologies
Recently, I’ve found a new passion, tennis. Unexpectedly, tennis has become a significant part of my life on and off the court. While playing the game, I’ve found a wonderful escape from daily stresses and a place where I can recharge. Tennis not only improved my health and built a new network for me, but also helped to enhance my strategic thinking—benefits that have surprisingly translated back to my professional life. It’s helped to enhance my focus, ability to adapt, illustrate the importance of patience and has been a great reminder that dedication and hard work pays off.
Melissa Van Dover
Sr. Director, Partner Marketing
GoTo
A fun fact that most people don’t know about me is that I practice Muay Thai and have been doing so for almost three years. I have set a goal for 2024 to start testing and increasing my skill level!
Andrea Vangas
Director, Global Business Transformation Programs
Juniper Networks
Most people don’t know that English is my second language. During my early childhood years, I only spoke Spanish and lived in Nicaragua.
Judy Vansell
Sr. Director, Global Alliances, Channel Chief
Rackspace Technology
In 2008, I decided that there was one goal in my life that I never obtained, and that was to graduate from college. Because I dropped out of college to pursue my career after just two years, I was only about halfway to completing my degree. My sons were in college and would graduate soon, so I decided I would beat them and enrolled at the University of Oklahoma. During the next two years, I participated in an accelerated program that enabled me to graduate in December of 2010, just five months before my son graduated.
Vicki Vaughn
Director, Cloud Services Provider Marketing
VMware by Broadcom
It has been a challenging journey as a woman and a lesbian in a high-tech career over the past 30 years. Although there is now more awareness and sensitivity to LGBTQ people, early days in Silicon Valley it was not an accepted norm in the workplace. I am so glad that has evolved and [glad] to see how companies have continued to embrace diversity. I am happy to share that I have been married to my wife for more than 25 years and that we have raised twins who are college graduates, employed and successful.
Rashmi Vikram
Global Head, Sr. Director, Global System Integration Business
Palo Alto Networks
I am a classical singer who has also practiced farming. I specialize in Indian Carnatic music and have successfully converted large barren lands into fertile ones, where I now cultivate coconut and mango trees.
Kim Vokey-Harris
Sr. Partner Account Manager
Cradlepoint, part of Ericsson
Many years ago before my IT career, I was a florist. I’ve executed hundreds of weddings over the years as a hobby and recently came out of floral retirement for one last wedding in the fall. It was extremely satisfying to create something beautiful for an incredible couple.
Kelly Walker
Sr. Partner Program Manager
GitLab
I love musical theater. For 6 years, I’ve had season tickets to see touring Broadway shows, 40-plus shows I’ve been privileged to see! I’ve performed in eight community theater productions since 2018, more if not for the COVID interruption in 2020 and 2021. Last summer, I checked off a bucket list item by performing as the Narrator in our local production of J oseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I’m also enjoying exposing my daughter to the magic of musicals by taking her to shows, including local high school productions, and encouraging her to join me on stage as well.
Michelle Wang
Director, Channel Marketing
Eaton
I am a proud Girl Scout troop leader! I love seeing the girls grow, fostering their relationships with each other and in their community, and keeping kindness in their hearts. I am grateful to share this experience with my daughter.
Kristine Wedum
Channel Sales Director, North Central, Canada
Pure Storage
I used to perform improv all around Chicago with various improv troupes. One highlight I will never forget was having the opportunity to do an eight-show run at the infamous Second City.