On March 4, our Bedford, Massachusetts, team came together to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 under this year’s theme, Give to Gain. More than 150 employees participated in a two-hour celebration that welcomed colleagues from across the site, creating space for reflection, creativity and connection.
Give to Gain emphasizes the power of generosity and reciprocity. When women give knowledge, encouragement and support to each other, they expand opportunity and strengthen the communities around them. In Bedford, that idea became the foundation for an event centered on collaboration, learning, and shared growth.
Reflecting on How We Support Each Other
At the center of the celebration was a vision wall, where employees reflected on a simple but meaningful question: How do we give to each other at work?
Employees completed pledge cards, committing to one action they will take to support and empower women across the organization. These pledges remain displayed as a reminder that workplace culture is built through everyday actions.
The exercise highlighted an important idea: When people feel connected, supported, and encouraged to share ideas, teams are better positioned to collaborate, solve problems, and innovate.
Creating Space for Connection
The celebration included several activities designed to encourage interaction and creativity.
Employees participated in a hands-on craft activity, creating small “Give to Gain” bags by selecting and pressing patches onto fabric. The activity sparked conversations across teams and functions while adding a personal touch to the event.
A brunch featuring bagels, quiche and cinnamon apple strata provided an informal setting for colleagues to connect and share ideas.
Throughout the event, a screen highlighted International Women’s Day history, trivia and examples of influential women who have helped empower others through mentorship, advocacy and leadership. These examples included Melinda French Gates, Malala Yousafzai, Oprah Winfrey and Wangari Maathai, each demonstrating the impact that supporting others can have on communities and future generations.
Continuing the Momentum
The spirit of Give to Gain will continue throughout the year.
The Women’s ERG plans to support women’s career advancement through initiatives connected to Dress for Success, including volunteer opportunities such as interview preparation and professional clothing support.
The Bedford team will also continue encouraging learning and dialogue through a monthly book highlight program, where employees can explore and share books focused on leadership, empowerment and personal growth.
Additional connection-focused activities are also planned, including networking sessions that bring employees together across roles and teams. Through structured speed networking with guided prompts, participants will exchange experiences, insights, and practical advice.
When Giving Strengthens Growth
Give To Gain reflects a broader belief that when people invest in each other’s success, organizations become stronger, more innovative, and more connected.
By supporting one another through mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy, teams create conditions where individuals and ideas can thrive.
Celebrating International Women’s Day in Bedford was more than a moment of recognition. It was a reminder that when people give intentionally and build stronger connections, they create the foundation for growth, innovation, and shared success.
