Keynote:

Championing Gender Equity

“It was amazing how Colin connected with our audience in such a natural and comfortable way. His insights were relevant and helpful to our staff, and the feedback was incredibly positive. We really appreciated how Colin provided very tangible takeaways, from basic to more difficult, that we can apply as we continue this conversation.”

Denise L.

Director of Workforce Vitality, Cox Automotive Inc./Dealer.com

‘3 Keys to Recruiting Male Allies’ @ WEOC 2017

From 2016-2018 Colin served as the only male Commissioner on the Vermont Commission on Women. Colin’s story of going from stuck in silence to shining a spotlight on the powerful stories of women across Vermont will inspire you to do the same. Through humanizing honesty, hilarious storytelling, and a truly inspirational message, Colin’s keynote will illuminate how you too can be a champion… by being someone who champions the wisdom, needs, and perspectives of women in your world and workplace.

Colin is a passionate advocate for gender and pay equity, and has partnered with the Vermont Women’s Fund, Change The Story, the Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference, and Male Champions for Change. Colin lives in Burlington with his wife Lindsey Lathrop.

Colin Ryan, on his time with the Vermont Commission on Women:

“At times it was deeply troubling, like when I learned that 43% of Vermont women who work full-time cannot pay their basic living expenses. At times it was totally inspiring, as I saw firsthand the programs equipping women with the skills they need for leadership and to gain employment in high growth fields.

I don’t think I would have discovered any of that if I hadn’t started attending events with “Women” in the title. And when you do, it’s pretty clear why there aren’t a lot of guys there. It’s a problem of language. When you put “Women” in the title, men assume that it’s not about them, it doesn’t affect them and it’s probably not even for them.

By attending these events and hearing women’s stories, it became clear right away that equality is not a women’s issue. It’s an economic issue. And that as men we have a far bigger role to play than just remaining silent for fear of saying the wrong thing. Each of us has a role to play in moving the conversation for equality forward both in the workplace and in the world.”