Women, Work, and AI: Preparing for the next workforce shift
Published April 17, 2026
Nazareth University will host Women, Work, and AI: Preparing for the Next Workforce Shift on Thursday, April 30, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. in the Shults Center Forum on campus, bringing together leading voices to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the workforce and what it means for women’s careers.
A recent study published by Forbes suggests women may face a higher risk of job disruption due to AI. However, the research also highlights a promising trend: nearly 70% of workers in highly exposed roles already possess the skills needed to adapt or transition into new opportunities.
The event will feature a keynote address by Karen Hobbs, senior vice president at Butler/Till and a Nazareth alumna. Hobbs will also participate in a panel discussion alongside Olivia Goldstein, CEO of Upstate Venture Connect and partner at StartFast Ventures; Karla George, CEO of FLX AI; and Lawana Jones, a global technology executive and AI governance strategist who made history as the first female chief technology officer at United Way Worldwide.
The panel, moderated by Jeffrey Allan, Ph.D., director of Nazareth’s Institute for Responsible Technology, will examine the implications of rapid AI adoption. Topics will include how leaders can prepare their organizations, the emergence of new roles and skills, and strategies for women to position themselves for success in an AI-driven economy.
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Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
