At Comcast NBCUniversal, we stand for including everyone. We believe that a diverse and inclusive company is a more effective company, leading us to approach diversity as a driver for business growth and innovation. Celebrating this diversity and inclusion is one reason Women’s History Month is important to us. It affords us the opportunity to showcase a few of our brave, fearless and talented women leaders who are shaping our workplace and the world.
Check out what some of our women leaders, who are champions in all areas of the business had to say about Women’s History Month, and leadership.
Nikia Farria-Green
Director, Business Assurance
Leading with a courageous heart of service is the motto that Nikia Farria-Green, our Director of Business Assurance lives her life by. She has been with Comcast for 14 years, and feels it is important to have women in positions of leadership, because diversity is essential for the success of any organization. As a woman leading the Comcast brand in Houston, Farria-Green says “Being a leader means being the difference! As leaders we impact the lives of both the people we lead and the people they love.” Nikia has been married for 20 years to her wonderful husband, Christopher. They have four children as well as a four-year old granddaughter Adria. They enjoy traveling as often as possible to as many countries as possible.
Melinda Little
Director, Government Affairs
Networking and building strong relationships is what Melinda Little, Director of Government Affairs credits to building a successful career. “The network you build, will help you grow, learn and be prepared as you move up in your career”, Little says. Melinda feels women have an important story to tell, and can make big impacts in our world. As a woman in a leadership position, she feels diversity of voices help us think about all sides and come to solutions that are more impactful for the business and our community. Melinda married the love of her life, Russell, while in college at the age of 19. They’ve raised three children and have one granddaughter, Vivienne who is the light of their life. Melinda is an avid reader who loves to travel with her husband. She is the proud graduate of the University of Houston, with a BA in Psychology.
Maria Mairena
Interim Director, Customer Experience
Maria Mairena, believes in a healthy life-balance, hence her life motto Work Hard, Then Play Hard. As the Interim Director of Customer Experience, she believes it is crucial to the long term success of business that women hold positions in leadership. Maria feels that living the life of a leader means putting your heart into the investment of others and most importantly living a life of moral and ethical courage. Maria is a mother of three children who all have different little personalities. She makes it a priority to have them involved in activities they enjoy. Maria enjoys jogging, hiking nature trails and taking dancing lessons.
Carolyn Schaff
Senior Director, Engineering
“Pursue your interests boldly, and take ownership of your education, goals, and your life.” This is the advice Carolyn would give to a young student reading this (blog). Schaff, Senior Director of Engineering, for Comcast in Houston believes setting a positive example through both good times and bad is a trait all leaders must possess. She also feels, it’s important that we acknowledge Women’s History Month and the progress that has been made to ensure we continue moving forward to achieve equality for women around the world. Carolyn is married to her wife, Samantha, and they are celebrating their first anniversary March 14. She has B.S. in Bioengineering and a B. S. in Electrical Engineering – both from Texas A&M University. She enjoys down time at home with her pets – one dog and three cats.
Suzy Winger
Director, Field Operations
“Don’t let gender factor into your goals and aspirations. Do what you’re passionate about, success and fulfillment will come easier that way,” says Suzy Winger, Director of Field Operations. Suzy has been with Comcast for nine years and feels it is important to celebrate Women’s History Month to recognize those who’ve played a role in changing the world. Winger adds “Diversity of thought produces the best solutions, therefore, it is important to have women leaders at the table.” Suzy has been married for 34 years. When she’s not working you can find her riding her Harley-Davidson motorcycle, exploring new places, or somewhere on the water.