Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in the field of economics. Our Women in Economics (WiE) group seeks to inspire the next generation by encouraging young women to pursue economics degrees. WiE sponsors a variety of programs that introduce students to alumnae, highlight their diverse achievements, and showcase the versatility and impact of an economics degree.
Events
On October 23, 2025, Women in Economics Networking Night featured keynote speaker Alaina Hartley ’16, Private Equity Expert and former EA President, who shared insights from her journey in finance and offered encouragement to current students pursuing careers in economics and related fields.
Students had the opportunity to engage directly with alumnae representing a wide range of industries, including asset management, consulting, finance, law, public affairs, and wealth management. Participants included Ingrid Lee ’05 (CIM Group), Marlaina Leo ’22 (Cornerstone Research), Sarah Figueroa ’23 (Stellant Systems), Katherine Hurley ’15 (Ares Management Corporation), Emily Ching ’23 (Bryson Gillette), and Hannah Lewis ’21 (Sentinel Bridge Wealth Management).
On October 23, 2024, the Women in Economics forum brought together students and alumnae for an enriching evening of engagement and networking. Attendees had the chance to connect with successful economics alumnae across fields in finance, consulting, law and actuarial science, gaining valuable insights and fostering important conversations. Participants were encouraged to come with questions and actively join the discussion, making the event a dynamic opportunity for growth and collaboration.
A special thank you to our moderator and four panelists:
DEBORAH SENIOR PhD ‘95
Board Chair of iACT, Founding Chair of USC Women In Economics
RAMINA HEDAYATI ‘20
Senior Associate, TM Financial Forensics
CORINA JOHNSON JD ‘16
Associate Attorney at Fisher Phillips
KATHERINE HURLEY JD ‘15
Financial Services Associate, Dechert LLP
NICOLE PARK ‘22
Actuarial Analyst @ UnitedHealth Group
In October 2023, WiE hosted 50 freshmen and sophomore women at their Semi-Annual Forum and Networking event. A panel of alumnae discussed how their economics education helped advance their careers. Following the panel discussion, students networked with alumnae who shared their professional experiences and offered future support.
On May 23, 2023, WiE hosted a Community Happy Hour at a beautiful private rooftop in the LA Arts District. It was a wonderful opportunity to bring together alumni and faculty to get acquainted and develop relationships. Many alumni, friends, and faculty enjoyed an opportunity to connect, or re-connect.
On March 3, 2023, Women in Economics hosted lunch and a Career Chat with alumnae Elizabeth O’Neill-Harris ’99, Partner, Value Driven Solutions, and Leticia Lujan ’02, Partner, Broadway Advisors.
Economics Opportunity Fund
This fund empowers our academic community by promoting student engagement, alumni connections, and departmental innovation through flexible funding.
