Interview with Lisa Bogart, Bank of America, Senior Vice President, Technology – Business Solutions Manager

What is your passion? 

I am fortunate to have a leadership role in one of our enterprise-sponsored Diversity & Inclusion networks, LEAD for Women. Our group is focused on helping women within our company succeed by providing networking opportunities, leadership skills training, and so many more valuable programs.

We also partner with several community organizations, including Girl Scouts of Western New York. One of my favorite volunteer activities is our Financial Literacy session which highlights basic financial skills tailored to adults or students. The feedback we receive from students is how surprised they are about the cost of everyday items (cell phones) and the importance of budgeting and saving. It’s so rewarding to watch them progress and learn new skills that will help them thrive in the future.

Why is it important for young girls to develop leadership skills?

Most importantly, they become more confident in themselves and more likely to succeed in so many areas of their lives, such as school, friendships, and family. I encourage other women to consider becoming a mentor either formally or informally. When girls have a trusted mentor or advisor, they see opportunities are attainable and can begin planning their path to a successful future.

What 3 women do you admire most personally and professionally?   

I have to start with the strong women in my family, especially my mom. She has always shown me the importance of faith, resilience, and compassion.  

Professionally, I’ve had several successful female role models and mentors who shared similar traits, including great communication skills with the ability to articulate their vision. Most importantly, they advocated for women in junior roles and provided them with opportunities to succeed. 

Why do you believe this year’s Women’s History Month theme: “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” is important?  

It’s such a positive message… healing and hope. It’s important to realize that everyone has faced significant adversity in the past couple of years, including the pandemic which turned our lives upside down. It’s a timely message reminding us there are better days ahead. It also reminds us to be more compassionate and accepting of others’ differences as we try to gain some normalcy at home, school, and work. 

Throughout March, GSWNY will be highlighting more local women making HERstory in the community. Celebrate Women’s History Month with us by sharing the stories of these incredible women who help make the world a better place!