Victoria Cantrell's acceptance speech at the
2003 Annual JCT Awards Dinner

Dear Friends:

It is my extreme honor to accept this recognition, and through my efforts, be able to provide a benefit to the Women’s School of Engineering. 

Information technology objectively transcends industrial boundaries, and the JCT Women’s School of Engineering is developing leaders for every industry by providing a world-class education while meeting specific needs of its student body.   Because we have all heard about and seen the wonderful technical curriculum, I would like to talk to aspects of the specific student environment that strike a chord with me.

The first is the ability for these women to take advantage of learning in an environment conducive to their lives, and accommodating their challenges as women.

Since I began my career, I have been in retail and retail technology. Although there are many women in the retail industry, there were not many in upper management positions. Many times I had to prove myself but by applying the premise to never stop learning, and taking the time to build relationships; I have a history of great experiences, a comfort with my abilities, integrity and many more years of applying my education and growing in my field. But most important, as JCT is providing for their students, I have a strong support system. I would not be able to take advantage of the career options I have if it weren’t for this incredible and necessary support.

The second is the incorporation of strong values embedded in the curriculum. In my personal and professional life, I have come to appreciate and surround myself with people of high integrity and a strong sense of what is right. For the school to recognize the importance of this is a great asset for these women, and the companies and society they will serve.

During the time I was receiving my education, I was faced with many life challenges, and it is because of this that I support and work for a number of educational institutions.  JCT has done an exemplary job in making the Women’s School of Engineering a haven for learning and a launching pad for the student’s success.

While I am fortunate to be one of the individuals who is being recognized, I in turn, need to recognize and thank the wonderful people who support me in all that I do every day. My boss, Roberto Pesaro, and the extremely capable management team at Giorgio Armani. They have made my transition to Giorgio Armani a smooth one and I am thankful to be working with a group that is smart, talented and remembers what is important in life 

My terrific staff members both past and present. It is working with these people that remind me that one needs to be a student and teacher every day.

And last but most important is my wonderful family. My children, Taylor and Michael who are always proud of their Mom and remind me why I work as hard as I do, and my main source of support, my husband Jerry who without him doing his job, I wouldn’t be able to do mine.

I want to thank each of you who attended the event. With your help we have made a significant contribution to not only this admirable institution, but to all of us who will reap the benefits that these students will create.