Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Each March, Women’s History Month gives us a chance to recognize, celebrate, and reflect on the accomplishments of women—including the women who work at Mr. Cooper.
In honor of women everywhere, we asked the 2022 officers of our Women’s Network group to talk about their experiences and aspirations as a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) officer at Mr. Cooper.
Latasha T., Chair
What’s one thing that you are really proud of and why?
I am proud that I’ve been part of The Women’s Network (TWN) since the beginning, and now I am seeing it grow and change.
What are your aspirations as an officer of the Women’s Network at Mr. Cooper?
I would like to remain a part of the DEI culture shift that is happening. I would like to help build out the renewed vision for TWN, with metrics and ways to measure our footprint at Mr. Cooper Group.
Why is it important to have women in leadership AND mentorship roles?
Women belong in rooms where decisions are being made. Our experience and input are valuable. We must use our stories to help others continue to push for more.
What is your personal motto?
Be thankful for each day!
What can allies do to support gender equality?
I’d like to see more allies as mentors or even sponsors. They can continue to invite us and solicit our feedback, and they can also be our voice in the room when we’re not present.
Is there something you wish you knew in your 20’s that you know now?
People will value your feedback, so don’t be afraid to speak up. Don’t be afraid to show what you know.
Lauren B., Vice Chair
What’s one thing that you are really proud of and why?
My husband and I were able to build a house and plan a wedding in the middle of the pandemic. It may not sound like a lot, but I feel it’s not something everyone is fortunate enough to be able to do.
What are your aspirations as an officer of the Women’s Network at Mr. Cooper?
When I moved here from Houston, I only knew a handful of people in Dallas and they didn’t work at Mr. Cooper, so The Women’s Network was where I was able to attend great events and really build great relationships through those events. It would really mean a lot to me if I can help create that environment for other women.
Why is it important to have women in leadership AND mentorship roles?
It’s SO important to have a leader and mentor who has already been in your shoes before and knows on a personal and professional level what you may be struggling with. I would not be where I am today—personally or professionally—without several of the great female leaders and mentors that I’ve been fortunate enough to have.
What advice would you give young women new to the workforce who experience imposter syndrome or a lack of confidence in their roles?
I don’t accept compliments very well, so I struggle with this daily to an extent. What I do is pretty simple in just reminding myself daily (sometimes several times a day) that I deserve what I’ve received because I’ve worked really hard to achieve what I have.
Is there something you wish you knew in your 20’s that you know now?
If it doesn’t make you happy or help you grow, it’s not worth your time or effort.
Sandra S., Treasurer
What are your aspirations as an officer of the Women’s Network at Mr. Cooper?
The Women’s Network (TWN) has so many phenomenal leaders involved and willing to share their story with our members. I hope that we can motivate and help our Coopers to really build the career they love. There are many talented people at Mr. Cooper, and our employee resource groups help to provide growth opportunities to keep our talent here.
Why is it important to have women in leadership AND mentorship roles?
I’ve been the only woman in the room before and I know how intimidating it can be, especially as a new leader. To see women lead with confidence and skill is inspiring, but to be mentored by those women and to get the opportunity to learn from their failures and successes is a game changer. Success is so hard to achieve when you face obstacles without guidance from those who came before you.
What is your personal motto?
“Everything you do, do it well!” A college senior said this to me when I was an undergraduate and it has stuck with me since then. You always want to put your best foot forward—you never know who is watching.
Rehana K., Membership Chair
What are your aspirations as an officer of the Women’s Network at Mr. Cooper?
Any time I’m around any of the DEI members, I feel uplifted. I feel energized. And most of all, I feel like I’m part of something that’s impactful. That feeling is truly unique, and I love it! We have many exciting things planned for 2022, and we’re aspiring to make this the best year yet at Mr. Cooper.
What’s one thing that you are really proud of and why?
When I think of what I’m really proud of, two things come to my mind. 1) My work: I love working for a company that values me, provides an amazing, inclusive culture, and of course, my team is amazing. 2) My family: I have the most amazing family and friends who have been with me through many personal hurdles. I definitely would not be here today without them.
What can allies do to support gender equality?
First off, admit that inequality exists and listen to your women counterparts. Ask them how they feel about it and gain insight on what their views are. Look at their professional lives and see where they may be able to help break some of those inequalities.
What advice would you give young women new to the workforce who experience imposter syndrome or a lack of confidence in their roles?
When you’re young(er), it’s easy to fall prey to the expectations of the world. Try and focus on the bigger picture and remember that work is a part of life, not your entire life. You’ve been chosen to do the job because you can!
Is there something you wish you knew in your 20’s that you know now?
As cliché as it sounds: life is too short to keep on worrying about the “small” things. Keep your chin up and keep on shining! And it’s okay to make mistakes—that’s how we learn.
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