The National Structured Settlements Trade Association (NSSTA) Women's Caucus is making significant strides in advancing women's leadership within the structured settlement industry. In a recent insightful podcast, Eric Vaughn spoke with Erin Jesberger and Sylvia Mukengele, two new Women's Caucus leadership team members, about their vision, upcoming events, and the impact they hope to make.
Meet the New Leadership
Erin and Sylvia bring fresh perspectives to their new NSSTA Women's Caucus leadership roles. Erin, who stepped into her position after taking over from one of the original female brokers in the industry, expressed how honored she is "to support women in the industry and hopefully have a place that they can ask any question and feel that they can have a place to be within NSSTA."
Sylvia, who has been in the industry since 2017, shared her enthusiasm about the Women's Caucus since her first NSSTA experience in Las Vegas. She was drawn to the organization because of its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to collaboration.
Growing Community in the Structured Settlement Industry
The Women's Caucus has experienced remarkable growth, now boasting over 200 members. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to expanding membership, particularly among case managers who represent the future of the industry.
"A lot of the best consultants I know started as case managers," Erin noted, highlighting how the Women's Caucus provides an ideal forum for professional development and industry networking.
Sylvia added that she hopes "to encourage more case managers to join" because "these are the people who would understand your best and your worst days."
Exciting Events at the NSSTA Annual Meeting in New Orleans
The podcast revealed several exciting events planned for the upcoming NSSTA Annual Meeting in New Orleans (April 28-May 1):
- The Inaugural Women's Leadership Summit - Featuring "Branding Brilliance: Marketing Yourself and Building a Powerful Brand" with Courtney Barber from Independent Life, this interactive session will help women in the industry develop their personal brands and marketing strategies.
- The Networking Power Hour - An intentional networking lunch designed to connect women who might not otherwise meet.
- The Art of the Schmooze - A collaborative workshop focused on practical communication skills for mediation settings and client interactions.
- Foster Love Charity Project - A service initiative where participants will create decorated duffle bags filled with essentials for children in foster care, providing them with dignity when moving between homes.
- Women's Caucus Dinner at Brennan's - A must-attend gathering at one of New Orleans' finest restaurants.
A Foundation for the Future
The leadership team expressed deep appreciation for Paula Rubinstein, who was instrumental in establishing the Women's Caucus after many years of effort. They see themselves as building upon the strong foundation she created.
"Paula started a really beautiful thing and it's up to us to continue that legacy and grow it," Erin shared. "I just want it to be a place of collaboration and belonging for women in the industry."
Join the Movement
The podcast concludes with an invitation to all women in the structured settlement industry, as well as their supporters, to get involved with the Women's Caucus.
"The Women's Caucus organization welcomes all women as well as the people who support them," Sylvia emphasized, encouraging listeners to sign up for the newsletter to learn about upcoming events, including dinners, annual invites, and member-only events.
As Eric Vaughn noted in closing, the Women's Caucus has been "an Energizer bunny" driving growth and enthusiasm in the industry. With their focus on in-person events, mentorship, and community building, the new leadership team is poised to take the organization to even greater heights.
For more information about the NSSTA Women's Caucus or to become a member, visit the NSSTA Women’s Caucus website or contact the organization directly.
