Maureen McBride, Ph.D., has been named CEO of United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), the mission-driven, non-profit organization that serves as the nation’s organ donation and transplant system — the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) — under contract with the federal government.

Maureen McBride has been named CEO of United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), the mission-driven, non-profit organization that serves as the nation's organ donation and transplant system.

“We conducted an exhaustive nationwide search for a new CEO and were pleased to find that the most qualified candidate is Dr. McBride,” said UNOS Board President Jerry McCauley, M.D., who chaired the Search Committee. “She impressed the Committee with her innovative spirit, clear-eyed vision of transformational change at UNOS and knowledge of the challenges facing the organ donation and transplantation community today. Since taking over as Interim CEO seven months ago, Dr. McBride has shown that she embodies a much-needed change in approach and operations at UNOS. She has put the organization on a new trajectory by increasing transparency and communication with the organ donation and transplantation community, regulators, Congress and the public, and advancing new initiatives to modernize and improve the organ donation and transplant system to benefit patients and ensure public trust.”

Under McBride’s leadership, UNOS released an Action Agenda earlier this year, a comprehensive set of improvements in critical areas of the transplant system, including transparency, accountability, equity, transportation and modernization.

McBride has worked for UNOS since 1995. She has served as Interim CEO since October 2022 and before that, as Chief Operating Officer managing the OPTN contract. She was also the organization’s Director of Research from 2006 to 2014 and contributed to more than 50 research manuscripts and publications.

As CEO, she directs the efforts of 450 UNOS staff to ensure that the nation’s organ donation and transplant network efficiently and fairly serves the needs of transplant candidates and recipients, living donors and donor family members, and professionals in the field. She will be the first woman to lead the organization.

“I am humbled, thrilled and energized to be selected to serve as CEO of UNOS,” McBride said. “As long as there are patients in desperate need of organs, we have more work ahead of us. As we move forward in our mission to save more lives, I look forward to leading UNOS during a time of immense change. As I said in my first official remarks as Interim CEO: we can do better, we must do better, and we will do better. We are excited to show our ongoing commitment to saving lives, how we are best situated to help usher in proposed improvements and how our expertise should remain an integral part of the system. Additionally, I am excited to continue working with UNOS’ other non-OPTN business lines to enhance and grow our organization.”

In selecting McBride, the UNOS Corporate Affairs Committee agreed this is a pivotal moment in the organization’s history. They cited her leadership skills and proven ability to navigate organizational change both internally and externally as the lifesaving work continues and as UNOS prepares to respond to the federal government’s upcoming RFPs for the new OPTN contract.

This includes her institutional knowledge of UNOS and the entire organ donation and transplant community; her experience in the field; her commitment to clear and frequent communication to build trust, understanding and consensus; and her unquestioned commitment to the organization and its mission to save as many lives as possible through organ donation and transplantation.

She received her bachelor of science in mathematics from Loyola College in Maryland and her Ph.D. in biostatistics from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia.

McBride has served as the Executive Director of the OPTN since October 2022. She will begin her new role with UNOS immediately.

United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is the mission-driven non-profit serving as the nation’s transplant system under contract with the federal government. We lead the network of transplant hospitals, organ procurement organizations, and thousands of volunteers who are dedicated to honoring the gifts of life entrusted to us and to making lifesaving transplants possible for patients in need. Working together, we leverage data and advances in science and technology to continuously strengthen the system, increase the number of organs recovered and the number of transplants performed, and ensure patients across the nation have equitable access to transplant.

Today, iconic sneaker brand Keds announces a brand refresh and an updated brand platform and vision. Keds will debut an updated logo in a new blue hue, a revised brand platform centered around self-expression and the joy of dressing, and modern brand messaging that expresses the Keds core values of optimism, inclusion, authenticity, and play. In celebration of this new vision, Keds is also launching a new collection inspired by the iconic Keds Champion.

With a heritage that has spanned over a hundred years, Keds has been known to offer classic, comfortable, and fashion-forward accessible footwear that empowers customers to wear whatever makes them feel good about themselves. The brand's new vision will create a space where everyone is celebrated for their unique identity and sense of style.

"The brand refresh is rooted in Keds' rich history. Since its beginning over a century ago, Keds has championed the freedom of individual expression; creating accessible, comfortable, fashionable footwear that offers a blank canvas (both figuratively and literally) for wearers to experiment with style and self-expression." says Kathleen Sullivan, Senior Director of Marketing at Keds."Our new platform carries on our legacy of being advocates for self-expression with a promise to help you unlock your unique style, but what's particularly special about it is the focus on optimism, play, and inclusivity. The idea of self-expression through style isn't new to the footwear world, but with Keds it's all about the joy—the joy of stepping into something that feels just right. "

Alongside the brand refresh, Keds has launched three new upgraded sneaker styles to perfectly blend the brand's most iconic features: playfulness, timelessness, and its rich history. Starting with the classic Keds Champion, Keds reworked their original styles using the DNA of their classic sneaker silhouettes to create instant icons for today. The lineup includes:

The Keds Champion, an instantly recognizable design with all-day comfort;

The Court, a sporty spin with classic court sneaker vibes;

The Platform, an elevated update with dress-up appeal and cushiony comfort; and

The Mini, a streamlined, ultra-feminine twist with flirty ballet flat looks.

Pricing for these styles range from $50.00 to $80.00. The collection was brought to life through the lens of photographer Jacob Consenstein and production company Family Projects using bold, playful styling, clean, classic backdrops, and retro props.

To shop the new collection and preview the new website, visit keds.com.

For over 100 years, Keds has been making timeless, comfortable, accessible footwear for consumers to step out into the world their way. Ever since the creation of the iconic Keds Champion "sneaker" in 1916, Keds has held the belief that when we feel comfortable inside and out, we can leap forward and make our mark on the world. This belief continues to inspire and drive us every day. We design every product to support everyone— to give them the versatility, comfort, and style they need to live confidently as their truest selves.

Keds is part of the Designer Brands world-class portfolio of Owned Brands. Designer Brands is one of the world's largest designers, producers and retailers of the most recognizable footwear brands and accessories, transforming and defining the footwear industry by inspiring self-expression across every facet of its enterprise.

UNice Hair held the UNice Empowering Workshop on March 28th, 2023 to communicate face-to-face with offline users. UNice hair stylists and celebrity stylists were invited to share their tips and tricks on wig styling solutions for customers to install and style their wigs properly. UNice empowers customers with the professional skills they need to boost their confidence and make them radiate from the inside out.

According to the Brand Manager of UNice Hair Riker, "In 2023, UNice Hair is celebrating its 7th anniversary. We launched UNice Empowering Workshop activities with offline, face-to-face communication with clients. We invited professional stylists to teach girls and women hair styling and wig-related knowledge for free. Empowering women with the skills and knowledge they need to feel confident and beautiful from the inside out.

In addition, through the UNice Empowering Workshop event, we can comprehensively raise brand awareness so that more people will know about UNice Hair and its efforts to make a better wig-wearing experience for customers. More importantly, the free public sharing activities in UNice Hair salon can create more opportunities for direct interaction with users, allowing us to better listen to the real voices and suggestions of our customers and users, helping UNice Hair to create higher quality and meet the needs of users' products and services, and better give back to users."

Currently, UNice Hair is holding its 7th-anniversary event offline to celebrate the milestone. It also encourages every woman to be themselves.

In the future, UNice Hair will continue to develop new projects and activities to meet customer needs, help customers solve their concerns, and serve customers better.

UNice Hair is a supplier of high-quality human hair wigs and extensions. With the constant pursuit of high-quality wigs and the persistence to supply consumers with cost-effective products, UNice Hair has been one of the most renowned wig retailers. In the future, UNice Hair will also strive for excellence and continue to work on research and product development to provide customers with a wide range of high-quality products for a better shopping experience.

Every year, the Financial Women's Association (FWA) recognizes changemakers in the public and private sectors who have made a difference.

This year, to mark its 65th Anniversary and gala dinner in New York City, the FWA recognized the contributions of NYSE Chair, Sharon Bowen as Public Sector Woman of the Year, and BMO Capital Markets Chief Executive Officer Dan Barclay as Male Ally of the Year. In addition, the FWA celebrates its Past Presidents for their legacy in making the FWA the success it is today, recognizing them as Private Sector Women of the Year.

"It gives us great pleasure to recognize Sharon and Dan for their contributions to our mission to promote the professional development and advancement of all women through education, mentorship, scholarships, networking, alliances, and advocacy across the financial community," said FWA President Hermina 'Nina' Batson, who is also the association's first Black president. "This year's in-person gala dinner, which comes a day after International Women's Day and as we celebrate Women's History Month, is an opportunity to thank our leadership and members, past and present, for helping to drive IDEA – Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access – as we pave the way forward for all women in finance."

The March 9th event at Convene, located in the heart of New York City overlooking Times Square, also recognized FWA undergraduate scholars and mentors from the FWA's educational initiatives.

The FWA provides a forum for women to demonstrate their leadership and advisory skills through networking, ground-breaking educational programs, distinguished speakers, with peer-to-peer and next generation mentoring, along with practical and professional development training.

Since its founding, the FWA has shown unwavering commitment and dedication in supporting these goals and sharing best practices and building a stronger pipeline.

"Thanks to the FWA leadership team and especially thanks and congratulations to Nina Batson, a trailblazer and history maker in her own right," said Sharon Bowen, who broke barriers by becoming the first woman and the first person of color to become Chair of the Board of Directors of the New York Stock Exchange. "I also want to congratulate those who are being honored."

"BMO is proud to celebrate the long-standing and impactful partnership with the Financial Women's Association," said Dan Barclay, who has 31 years of investment banking experience in a broad range of industries and has been recognized as a Champion of Change. "Congratulations to the FWA for its 65th anniversary. BMO is honored to play a part in accelerating the success of women in the financial sector."

The FWA's Awards Ceremony is an annual tribute to the FWA's robust history and to its ongoing mission to advance the leadership growth and accelerate the success of all women in the financial sector by fostering alliances and preparing the current and next generation of professionals.

FWA President's Circle Supporters

The FWA gratefully acknowledged the generosity and commitment of its President's Circle Fortune 500 partners, who support the FWA in providing mentoring programs and scholarships to over 6,500 underrepresented and underserved young professionals and students. In particular, the FWA acknowledged the contributions of BMO Capital Markets to the FWA Education Fund over the past 11 years, including through the BMO "Equity Through Education" program and the Back2Business Program.

About the FWA

The FWA was founded in 1956 to help advance the leadership of women in the financial community. The New York-based organization partners with companies to share best practices and provides opportunities for members to build their careers, meet industry leaders, earn the support of powerful women and major companies, and contribute to the next generation of female leaders. The FWA's community activities include mentoring, scholarships, and training programs. The FWA High School Mentoring Program has impacted the lives of dozens of young women, empowering them to overcome sometimes overwhelming odds to graduate from high school and attend college. The FWA's Wall Street Exchange Program has helped over a thousand interns develop professional and networking skills; the FWA Adult Financial Literacy training programs have helped educate over 200 underserved women about personal financial matters, and 2,000 students have participated in the FWA's Financial Backpack Literacy training. In addition, 140 scholarships have been awarded to MBA students and 250 Undergraduate FWA/BMO Scholarships have been awarded to undergraduate students.

Photo: L-to-R: FWA BMO Student Honoree Jenny He; FWA President Hermina “Nina” Batson and FWA Baruch Student Honoree Amber Watts (CNW Group/Financial Women's Association)

Women everywhere are looking for secrets to enduring youthfulness - and for a good reason- who wants to age prematurely? We want to look our best for as long as possible. But as women age, there are certain secrets they can consider to maintain a youthful appearance. Yes, while ageing is inevitable, there are many ways to ensure a woman can keep a youthful look and feel. Here are steps to take to keep your body and mind looking and feeling young:

Get Plenty of Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for healthy ageing. Not getting enough sleep can lead to various health issues, including wrinkles, dull skin tone, and poor mental clarity. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your body and mind looking and feeling their best. Also, getting enough restful sleep reduces stress and keeps our skin and hair looking vibrant. Eat healthy and exercise regularly: Eating a balanced diet with a variety o fruits, vegetables, and proteins can help us maintain our health, vitality, and youthful appearance. Doing this can boost our energy levels, strengthen the immune system, and keep the skin and hair looking their best. Further, eating a balanced diet can reduce your risk of age-related diseases.

Sleeping for eight hours a night is essential for physical and mental health. Getting adequate sleep can also boost the immune system and help to maintain a healthy weight. Research has shown that sleeping 8 hours a night can have a wide range of benefits, including improved cognitive performance, better moods, and even reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Exercise is also essential to keep our bodies functioning optimally- it keeps our skin looking supple and healthy. Generally, exercising regularly is among the most important things you can do for your body. Not only does it keep your muscles toned and healthy, it also helps with weight management and overall well-being. Exercise also releases endorphins, which help you feel happier and reduce stress. It can also help improve your body’s circulation, which can give your skin and hair a more youthful glow. Also, hydrate and moisturize: Staying hydrated is essential for our skin and hair health. Moisturizing regularly keeps our skin looking and feeling soft and smooth. Hence, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Use a moisturizing to keep your skin looking youthful.

Avoid Sun Damage: Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can cause wrinkles and age spots on the skin. Always use sunscreen with an SPF. Wear protective clothing when basking in the sun. Use natural anti-ageing products: Natural anti-ageing products such as serums and creams can reduce wrinkles and nourish the skin. Look for products with ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and natural extracts. Get Plenty of Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin, bones, and hair. Get enough vitamin D by spending time in the sun or by taking a supplement. Taking supplements can help support your health and keep your body running smoothly. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and collagen can keep your skin looking its best and fight signs of ageing.

Relax- take time for yourself: Avoid stress; stress can have a huge impact on how quickly we age. Stress and anxiety can also take a toll on our appearance. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to practice some calming techniques like deep breathing or meditation. It’s also important to try to maintain a positive outlook on life and surround yourself with positive people. Taking time for yourself can reduce stress and make sure that you are looking and feeling your best. Yes, pamper yourself; treat yourself to a spa day once in a while. Taking the time for yourself is important for keeping your mind and body in a relaxed state. A massage, facial, or manicure can help reduce stress and help you look and feel your best.

These are merely some secrets to enduring youthfulness in women. By following the tips, you can keep yourself looking and feeling youthful and beautiful. Taking the time to care for your body and mind is essential for keeping your skin looking its best and feeling your best. It's never too late to start taking better care of yourself.

Pixyle AI helps fashion ecommerce deliver better search experiences by generating detailed and accurate product attributes, so consumers can get to their desired items faster. The poor product discovery experience of consumers is costing online sellers and ecommerce companies billions in lost sales as they fail to live up to user expectations. Helping them address this problem, visual AI startup for e-commerce, Pixyle AI, is today announcing a €1M seed funding round from South Central Ventures with a mission to connect retailer's online audience with the products they are really looking to buy.

Founded in 2018 by Svetlana Kordumova, a PhD in AI and Computer vision from the University of Amsterdam, Pixyle AI helps fashion retailers with image recognition solutions, enabling them to deliver a better online shopping experience, boost e-commerce sales, and improve efficiency in catalogue management with smart product data entry.

Pixyle's visual AI finds the location of fashion items in images, determines the category of the item i.e dress, sneaker etc and then Pixyle AI digs deeper into the image to classify attributes i.e. colour, pattern etc in language that shoppers use. This enhances the product data and improves the relevancy in search results for product discoverability, leading to higher conversion rates. The tags generated by Pixyle AI can be easily absorbed into a retailer's existing e-commerce stack, making their search and discovery platform run seamlessly and faster.

Svetlana Kordumova, founder and CEO of Pixyle AI commented: "In search, understanding customers' shopping intent is vital. We are laser focused on this using neural networks that train Pixyle's AI algorithms to see and interpret images exactly how humans would. For example, in ecommerce when site visitors are looking for a specific product to buy and type "short summer dress with flower print in purple and pink" in order for these kinds of dresses to be shown to the customers, in the catalogue they need to be tagged with length "short", occasion "summer", with "floral" pattern, and "purple" and "pink" colours. It starts with building the right taxonomy. Having the right metadata associated with product images helps retailers capture everyday popular search queries as well as long-tail searches. We're trying to make online shopping as frictionless as possible, and hopefully a bit more fun and enjoyable by letting people easily find what they are really looking for."

The premise behind Pixyle AI is that search engines and site search are failing shoppers owing to inconsistent, incomplete and inaccurate data quality linked to products that isn't helping them find what they are looking for. Research shows that 94% of searches deliver irrelevant results and 72% of sites completely fall short of search expectations. As a result, the majority of shoppers abandon their search and they're not coming back. Google has estimated (in the US alone) the cost of such bad search experiences is $300B in lost revenue each year.

Svetlana Kordumova added: "Retail footfall has increased post pandemic but online shopping for clothes will continue to grow. We are also encouraged by the growth of the fast-growing fashion resale market, which presents a significant first-mover opportunity for Pixyle AI to help the circular economy take off. We have built algorithms specifically for user-generated images, allowing the AI to detect and recognize fashion items even in blurry, homemade selfies."

Pixyle AI, with offices in Amsterdam and North-Macedonia, helps brands and retailers all over the world including Tendam (Spain), Otrium (Netherlands) and Miinto (Denmark). Since going live in 2019, Pixyle AI has worked with retailers having tagged over 250M images, improving the relevance and accuracy of product attributes with 95% accuracy and increasing conversions by 10% on average. Pixyle AI will use the seed funding round to further expand our geographic reach, enhance the product offering, and move into new verticals.

Jan Kobler, Managing Partner at South Central Ventures commented: "Ecommerce has gone from strength to strength in recent years with several innovations to help the channel become second nature for consumers. A pivotal part of engaging online shoppers is product search, being able to find what you want easily and quickly. However, search has been hugely underserved and remains an unmet need for retailers and shoppers until now. Pixyle AI is laser focused on this opportunity and is already moving the dial with more sales for retailers. They have built a robust tech stack, which has been tried and tested in the market and is ready to scale. We are very much looking forward to working together with the founders and helping them grow their business in years to come."

Pixyle AI is on a mission to transform the way people discover products online by helping retailers build better search with visual AI. Pixyle AI provides image recognition solutions for fashion retailers, enabling them to improve efficiency in catalogue management, deliver a better online shopping experience and boost e-commerce sales.