GLOW Hosts a Night of Connection
This article was originally published in the April 2026 print edition of The Bark, distributed at the University of Minnesota Duluth campus.
Visitors at Women’s Resource and Action Center’s table make bracelets and enjoy candy while learning about some of the resources offered to students. Photo by Macie Groth
The atmosphere of Girls Who Glow was one of empowerment, connection and community. The event was hosted by Girls Living Out Wellness (GLOW) in partnership with UMD’s career center on March 24 in the Kirby Ballroom.
GLOW is a newly registered student organization “seeking to promote a strong community of women who are passionate about mindfulness, fitness, and seeking an active lifestyle,” according to their Instagram page. The group often hosts events centered around well-being — both physical and mental. From pop-up yoga classes to group study sessions, a member is sure to feel their best when they show up to one of their events!
The night of Girls Who Glow began with a social hour, which allowed attendees to socialize with the clubs who were tabling. These included Women in Law, For the Girls Run Club, Women’s Resource and Action Center, and Recreational Sport and Outdoor Program, as well as GLOW itself.
The panelists nod and resonate with a statement made by Cassidy Glad, who is off-screen. Photo by Macie Groth
Attendees were encouraged to participate in small activities at each table in order to receive a ticket. They could ask questions and discover opportunities to get involved, which looked different for each group. The tickets allowed them access to food and refreshments later on in the evening, and acted as a way for people to get to know some of the women-focused groups established on campus. These various groups not only highlighted the range of resources available, but emphasized the importance of peer-led initiatives, specifically those created with women at the forefront.
The event was aptly timed, as it took place during Women’s History Month. Established in 1987, the month of celebration seeks to correct the lack of women’s stories throughout history, seeking out their many contributions to society. That is exactly what GLOW’s event produced: a conversation surrounding the advancement of successful women, by successful women themselves.
Attendants work on a pipe-cleaner craft at GLOW’s table. Photo by Macie Groth
The panel was an incredible interactive experience between the audience and guest speakers. Audience members were encouraged to ask their own questions, which resulted in some very in-depth and meaningful responses. These inquiries delved into topics like balancing a career with home life, the extra work it takes to be seen as competent in a male-dominated field, and tips for achieving high-status positions as a person in a minority group.
All of the women brought with them a wealth of knowledge and represented a diverse range of professional careers and life experiences. As founders, chief executive officers, business owners, directors, and more, they each brought different insight to the table. Alongside this, the open, candid way in which they spoke was refreshing to hear.
Honesty was a common theme throughout the night. In a question about balancing motherhood with work, one panelist responded plainly that she does not have it all figured out, even if it might appear that way to others. Another question was focused on the implicit understanding that women are expected to look more put-together in the workplace in comparison to men. To this, a different panelist said that while she recognizes the existence of that belief, she does not participate in it. Indeed, her competence in her career speaks for itself, and she refuses to take any extra steps that she herself does not care to take.
The dialogue was refreshing to hear, especially from women who had pushed past those barriers themselves. Audience members listened to the honest conversation, and left with wisdom that would stick with them after they left the event.
It is clear that GLOW is already achieving their goals of creating an uplifting and supportive community for women, despite it being their first year as a group. This was the first event of its kind, leaving attendees feeling inspired, many with new contacts and connections to women in their desired career paths. It is sure that the future of this group is bright, and their future events will not be ones to miss.