Womxn @ Work

a dark-pink poster that reads "Honoring exceptional women from the R I S D community"

Drawing inspiration from RISD’s pioneering history, Womxn @ Work honors and amplifies the voices of womxn within our campus community—fostering discussion around their experiences as working professionals, creatives and innovators.

Womxn @ Work 2025

Via photography and storytelling, the second iteration of our Womxn @ Work series celebrates the indomitable spirit, resilience and achievements of individuals who have been profoundly impacted by womxn in the workplace—in craft, in life and beyond.

This year’s honorees are individuals of of our community—regardless of gender identity—whose work has been influenced by womxn and/or womxnhood, whether through professional contributions, creative practices, leadership or volunteerism.

The Womxn @ Work initiative pays homage to RISD’s visionary founders and provides a platform for the impact of womxn to be heard and celebrated. Through interactive elements and storytelling techniques, we create an inclusive space for dialogue, reflection and education.

2025 honorees

2024 honorees

Myung Bender
Myung Bender

RISD/Brown Class of 2024, Design Engineering
student

Jay Davani
Jay Davani

RISD CE Class of 2009, Graphic Design and Photography
Creative Operations Specialist
RISD Marketing & Communications

Karen Harris
Karen Harris

RISD Class of 1986, Illustration
Senior Career Advisor and Internship Manager
RISD Careers

Rene Payne
Rene Payne

RISD Class of 1983, Graphic Design
Critic, Graphic Design department

Siena Smith
Siena Smith

RISD Class of 2018, Textiles
Critic, Textiles department

Watch the 2025 panel discussion

Read our annual coverage

2025 honorees pose for a photo in the Fleet
Womxn Honored at RISD’s Second Annual Womxn @ Work Event

Community members gathered in the Fleet Library at RISD to celebrate pioneering colleagues.

presenters and honorees gather at the Fleet Library for a group shot
Seven Womxn of RISD Honored via Inaugural Womxn @ Work Initiative

The honorees discussed the joys and pressures of modern womxnhood during an inspiring panel discussion at the Fleet Library.