Colleen has been a dedicated member of WIN of Philadelphia for over a decade and is truly the engine behind the scenes. As WIN’s longtime administrator, she keeps the organization running smoothly, from coordinating event invites and managing communications to updating the website and capturing the moments that bring our community to life through her photography. With a professional background that spans IBM, education, and volunteer leadership, Colleen brings heart and precision to everything she does. In this spotlight, she shares how she became involved with WIN, what inspires her work, and why the community continues to be such a meaningful part of her life.
How did you first get involved with WIN?
My neighbor (and WIN Advisory Board Member), Maxine Dotseth, introduced me to WIN over ten years ago. At the time, the group was still small and looking for someone to help with administrative support. I had volunteer experience through my children’s school sports, so it felt like a natural fit. What started as a small monthly position became something bigger and more meaningful. I’ve stayed involved ever since.
What do you do professionally?
I work in education, specifically in special education at the middle school level. I support students with learning differences, assisting with everything from small-group instruction to test accommodations. Before that, I worked in marketing and sales at IBM, selling mainframe systems. After having my children, I decided to pursue a master’s in education and make the shift. It was always a future career in my heart.
What inspired the shift from business to education?
I’ve always loved working with children. I’m the oldest of seven, so it’s in my DNA. While my work experiences gave me a strong foundation, once I had three children (under the age of two), I realized what I was doing wasn’t sustainable. Education was a long-standing interest, and I felt called to make a difference in that space.
What keeps you engaged with WIN today?
The people, hands down. I’ve met incredible women of all ages and backgrounds. Even though I don’t work in finance, I attend many of the events. Some of the topics go deep, but I always walk away having learned something new. More importantly, the connections I’ve made through WIN have had a real impact. Members have offered advice, mentorship, and even helped my children with career support. It’s a community that truly cares.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Gardening! I have a certificate in horticulture from the Barnes Foundation, and it’s something I genuinely enjoy. I also love learning – whether through formal education, volunteering, or picking up something new. That’s probably part of why I love being part of WIN, there’s always something to discover!
An Additional Note to Colleen:
On behalf of the entire WIN of Philadelphia community, thank you for everything you do.
Your dedication, consistency, and behind-the-scenes magic keep this organization running. From event invitations and newsletters to capturing our favorite memories through your photos, you help with everything that makes WIN feel like a connected, organized, and welcoming community.
You never seek the spotlight, but we want you to know how deeply appreciated you are. Your kindness, energy, and leadership have helped shape WIN into what it is today, and we are so grateful to have you as such an integral part of this network. Thank you, Colleen!