WBC Trailblazer In Gender Equity And Diversity Award: Lucy Sanders
2024-08-19 17:00 - 19:00 UTC
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdwfZEN23Vc
The presentation of the third 2024 Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award to Lucy Sanders, Founder and Executive in Residence of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) was held Monday, August 19, 2024, in Boulder, Colorado. Women Business Collaborative honored her trailblazing efforts in gender equity and diversity and her leadership for global good.
Lucy Sanders is Founder and Executive in Residence of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), a national organization that works to broaden participation in computing. She has an extensive industry background, having worked in R&D and executive (VP) positions at AT&T Bell Labs, Lucent Bell Labs, and Avaya Labs for over 20 years, where she specialized in systems-level software and solutions (multimedia communication, and customer relationship management).
In 1996, Lucy was awarded the Bell Labs Fellow Award, the highest technical accomplishment bestowed at the company, and she has six patents in the communications technology area. Lucy serves as a Trustee on several organizational boards, including the Colorado School of Mines and the International Computer Science Institute at the University of California, Berkeley. She was a member of Governor Polis’ COVID response team in 2020, and currently is the workforce lead for the State’s submission to the U.S. Department of Commerce to designate Colorado a Quantum Technology Innovation Hub.

Women's Capital Summit 2024
2024-09-04 - 2024-09-05 | Convene Madison, 360 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10017, United States
Elevate and Empower:Connecting Leading Women Entrepreneurs and the Investors Who Fund Them
SEPTEMBER 4-5, 2024 | CONVENE MADISON, 360 MADISON AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10017

The Women’s Capital Summit is the premier opportunity for founders and funders to network and gain actionable insights from each other while exploring the funding paths needed to grow business. This annual event is where women are supported and create a future fueled with equal opportunity.
The 2024 Women’s Capital Summit was held in New York, NY on September 4-5. The two-day event allowed women entrepreneurs to meet investors who believe in their vision, hear stories from trailblazing women, and receive the tools to help advance their business.

“Once you sit down and hear everyone’s story, you realize you’re in the right place. You realize that not only do you belong here, but you’re going to meet someone who’s going to take you to the next level.”
– Awilda Grant Founder & Owner, AMG Online Strategies

Summit Agenda

September 4, 2024

September 5, 2024

1:30pm: Arrival, Registration, and Networking

2:30pm: Opening Remarks
Gwen K. Young CEO, Women Business Collaborative

2:45pm: Concurrent Panel Sessions
Strategic Decision-Making for Women Entrepreneurs: Navigating Ownership, Capital Terms, and Legal Complexities
This breakout panel session is your chance to gain invaluable insights into making informed decisions that align with your business goals. We’ll dive into critical considerations for women-owned businesses, including the implications of different business structures (LLC, partnership) on scaling, capital raising, and ownership. We’ll also explore the importance of WBENC certification and how it can impact your business’s growth and control. Plus, you’ll walk away with essential legal insights on protecting your interests during negotiations and shaping the future of your business from now through to exit. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to optimize your business strategies and achieve your goals. Eda Henries, Founder and Managing Principal, Henries & Co.Kirsty McGuire, Partner, H PartnersMerri Moken, Partner, Brown Rudnick LaKesha White, Senior Vice President, Certification, WBENC
Enter the World of Angel InvestingThere are over 400,000 angel investors in the US. This session will provide an inside look at angel investors, why they do this work, what they consider in making investments, and what entrepreneurs need to consider when raising funding from angels. This session will be relevant for both entrepreneurs and investors who may be considering becoming angel investors. Hosted by Loretta McCarthy, Co-CEO of Golden Seeds, an angel network that has been investing in women-led companies for 20 years.Loretta McCarthy, Co-CEO and Managing Partner, Golden Seeds, LLC
Unlocking Grant Funding: Strategies to Fuel Business GrowthIn this breakout session, participants will explore how to leverage grant opportunities to accelerate their business ventures. The session will cover practical strategies for identifying, applying for, and securing grants tailored to women entrepreneurs. Attendees will gain insights from successful grant recipients and experts in the field, learning how to craft compelling proposals and maximize funding to drive innovation and scale their businesses. Whether you’re new to grant applications or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide the tools and knowledge needed to unlock critical funding sources.Marissa Beatty, Founder & CEO, Turnover LabsShreya Dave, Co-founder and CEO, Via SeparationsAngela Dingle, CEO, Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP)Kalee Whitehouse, Co-founder and Advisor, Noon EnergyIris Wu, Investment Associate, Aramco Ventures

4:15pm: Opening Fireside Chat with Donna LevinJoin us for our opening fireside chat with Donna Levin, the CEO of the Arthur M. Blank School for Entrepreneurial Leadership at Babson College and Co-Founder of Care.comCarolyn D’Angelo, Senior Managing Director, Brand Operations, Gordon Brothers; President, Laura AshleyDonna Levin, CEO, Blank School for Entrepreneurial Leadership; Co-Founder, Care.com

5:00pm: Opening Reception and Women’s Business Marketplace Featuring DAMA Wines and Misha’s Cupcakes

7:00pm: Reception Concludes
8:00am: Arrival, Breakfast and Networking

9:00am: Welcome
Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative

9:05am: Fireside Chat
Bailey G. DeVries, Associate Administrator, Office of Investment & Innovation, United States Small Business AdministrationGwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative

9:40am: Navigating the Landscape of CapitalThe options for accessing capital make up a robust ecosystem that can often be challenging to navigate. This process requires a clear understanding of the types of capital that are right for your business as well as an awareness of the goals of investors and lenders. In addition, clarity of business strategy, exit planning, industry dynamics, and business goals are critical to choosing the right capital provider. In this session, our panel of experts will discuss the landscape of capital and how entrepreneurs can scale their businesses with the investment options that are best aligned with their company’s strategy and growth plan.
Julie Hyman, Anchor, Yahoo Finance (Moderator)Elisabeth Chasia, Investments Director, Momentus CapitalJoy Fairbanks, Portola Valley PartnersNicole Martello, Relationship Manager, BridgeAshley McLeod, Director, National Lending Programs, Momentus CapitalVijay Mehta, Arkview Capital

10:30am: Coffee Break

11:00am: Setting the Table: Understanding Early-Stage CapitalAs business owners work to scale their companies, creating the right capital structure from the beginning is important to long term growth. This allows entrepreneurs to be ready to access and receive capital and create the traction necessary to accelerate their growth. In this session, speakers will set the stage for exploring early-stage capital and how to prepare your organization for investment in the earliest stages of growth.Chisom A’Marie, Vice President/Partner New Voices FundKelly O’Connell, Managing Partner, 360 Venture Collective

11:45am: Presenting Sponsor Remarks, Ruth Jacks, Executive Vice President | Head of Diverse Segments Commercial Banking
Followed by Networking Lunch
Join us for a Networking Lunch where we will offer facilitated conversations to deep dive into the thematic topics explored over the two days. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange insights, and build meaningful relationships while revisiting key discussions and actionable takeaways from the Summit.

1:15pm: The Building Blocks of Capital: Growing with PurposeScaling a business is a process and not a lump sum event. This work requires a strong commitment to the company’s values, strategy, and objectives as well as purposeful commitment from both business owners and investors of capital. Entrepreneurs must be constantly evaluating whether their desired growth is in alignment with the goals they’ve set for their organization and the value they are creating for their customers. Join our panel of experts to discuss how to grow your business intentionally as well as how entrepreneurs and investors can build mutually beneficial relationships to achieve both business owner and investor goals.La Keisha Landrum Pierre, General Partner, Co-Founder, Emmeline Ventures (Moderator)Richard Gan, Division Manager and Managing Director, Wells FargoLexi Ginsburg, Senior Analyst, Altura Capital

2:00pm: Mergers & Acquisitions as a Growth StrategyUnlocking the potential for transformational growth, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is a powerful strategy for scaling women-owned businesses. This dynamic panel will delve into the intricacies of M&A, offering insights into how this strategy can serve as a catalyst for expansion, market penetration, and increased competitiveness.
Join us for this insightful session to discover how mergers and acquisitions can serve as a strategic tool for growth and transformation. Whether you are looking to acquire, merge, or attract investment, this panel will provide the knowledge and inspiration needed to navigate the complex M&A landscape confidently.Kirsty McGuire, Partner, H Partners (Moderator)Marilyn Adler Founder and Managing Partner, Mizzen CapitalDana Getschow, Vice President, Mid-Cap Investment Banking, Wells FargoAnjali “Ann” Ramakumaran, Founder and CEO, Ampcus, Inc.Mark Sirower, Principal | M&A Consultative Services, Deloitte

2:45pm Coffee Break

3:00pm Engineering Your Exit: Envisioning the Future of your Company While Building It
As entrepreneurs grow their businesses, it is critical to consider the future of the company. When the time comes, how will they separate from the business? What are the ultimate goals included in an exit strategy? Does the organization have a succession plan to prepare for change as the business transitions? Answering these questions is key to achieving positive outcomes for both founders and investors. Planning an exit strategy early in the development of the company can help maximize the return on investment and sweat equity. In this session, the panel will discuss how to incorporate an exit into the company’s overall business strategy and the value that a well thought out exit strategy can bring to both founders and capital allocators.
Eda Henries, Founder and Managing Principal, Henries & Co. (Moderator)Dao Jensen, President, Compass UOL North AmericaJohn Majeski, CEO & Partner, Portola Valley PartnersSuzanne Morrison, Executive Vice President Head of Commercial Banking & Wealth Partnership, Wells Fargo

3:40pm: Closing Fireside ChatBabba Rivera, Founder & CEO, CeremoniaPocket Sun, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, SoGal Ventures

4:15pm: Closing RemarksGwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
Followed by Closing Reception, sponsored by Stearns Bank

5:15pm: Closing Reception Concludes

Opening Reception Sponsor

Closing Reception Sponsor

WBC Action for Impact Summit
2024-09-25 | Virtual
September 25, 2024 • 10:00 AM • Virtual Event

Awards

Agenda

Speakers

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Register Now

WBC’s 2024 Annual Action for Impact Summit united thousands of attendees on a fully interactive platform, enabling participants to network, connect, and exchange ideas, innovations, and impact in real-time. We presented the 2024 CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity Awards and the WBC Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Awards below.

Download the Program

For more information on the separate VIP Event In the Arena: Women Leading Sports, click here.
2024 CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity Awards Recipients

Priscilla Sims Brown
President & CEOAmalgamated Bank

Priscilla Almodovar
President & CEO Fannie Mae

Judy Marks
Chair, CEO & PresidentOtis Worldwide Corporation
2024 WBC Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award Recipients

Vernā Myers
Founder & PresidentThe Vernā Myers Company

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-GeneralWorld Trade Organization

Lucy Sanders
Founder & Executive in ResidenceNational Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT)

Charles E. Johnson
President, SodexoMagic
2024 CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity Awards Recipients

Priscilla Sims Brown
President & CEOAmalgamated Bank

Priscilla Almodovar
President & CEO Fannie Mae

Judy Marks
Chair, CEO & PresidentOtis Worldwide Corporation
2024 WBC Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award Recipients

Vernā Myers
Founder & PresidentThe Vernā Myers Company

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-GeneralWorld Trade Organization

Lucy Sanders
Founder & Executive in ResidenceNational Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT)
Agenda & Panel Programming

10:00-10:10 AM EST

ACTION FOR IMPACT SUMMIT WELCOME
For the past four years, WBC has convened our community to highlight the ACTION being taken to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and purpose and the direct IMPACT it is having in making a difference. Join Gwen K. Young as she kicks off WBC’s annual summit and our impact as we work to advance all women in business.

Gwen K. Young, Chief Executive Officer, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

10:10 – 10:30 AM ET

AI AT WORK: NAVIGATING ETHICAL FRONTIERS IN THE MODERN WORKFORCE
As the modern workforce evolves, it’s critical that businesses acknowledge the growing presence of artificial intelligence. The evolving AI landscape is poised to alter the course of business operations, change the conversation on the future or work and have significant ethical implications. Leaders on this panel discuss how companies can adapt to the presence of AI while ensuring that they remain committed to their values, purpose and employees.

Moderator: Emily Wilkins, DC Correspondent, CNBC
Miriam Vogel, President and CEO, EqualAI
Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences, UNESCO

10:30 – 10:32 AM ET

CEO EXCELLENCE IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARDS 2024 – INTRODUCTION
The WBC CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity Award recognizes corporate leaders whose efforts have made significant contributions to the advancement of diversity within their companies and increased opportunities for women in business roles.

Gwen K. Young, Chief Executive Officer, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

10:32 – 11:05 AM ET

2024 CEO EXCELLENCE IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
The WBC CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity Award recognizes corporate leaders whose efforts have made significant contributions to the advancement of diversity within their companies and increased opportunities for women in business roles.
Join us for part one of our conversation with this year’s CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity award winners with opening remarks by WBC leadership.

Priscilla Almodovar, Chief Executive Officer, Fannie Mae
Priscilla Sims Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer, Amalgamated Bank
Judy Marks, Chair, Chief Executive Officer and President, Otis Worldwide Corporation

11:05 – 11:35 AM ET

EMPOWERING GROWTH: HOW WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES ARE SHAPING THE BUSINESS LANDSCAPE
Women owned businesses continue to grow in both numbers and in terms of revenue. This diverse group of accomplished entrepreneurs will discuss the strategies they and their companies employed to build their businesses from the ground up. This panel will highlight the transformative impact of women in business and their contributions to a more inclusive and innovative economic landscape.

Moderator: Edie Fraser, Chair of Board, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)
Laura Fote, Founder and CEO, L&B Concepts
Sharon Reynolds, Founder, President, CEO, DevMar Enterprises, WBC Board Member
Deb Ward, Founder and CEO, UV BIOCLEAN
Diedre Windsor, Founder & CEO, Windsor Group LLC

11:35 – 11:55 AM ET

TRAILBLAZER IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD: DR. NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA
WBC is pleased to award Her Excellency, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), our Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award in recognition of her remarkable contributions to gender equity and diversity.

Her Excellency, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO)
Interviewed by Gwen K. Young, Chief Executive Officer, WBC

11:55 – 12:15 PM ET

2024 WBC WOMEN CEOS IN AMERICA REPORT
Women Business Collaborative and our partners are committed to not just reporting, but also galvanizing, energizing and motivating organizations to usher in more women to the C-Suite and then to CEO roles. There is reason for optimism as we see an increasing commitment to populate the C-Suite and the Board with more women – and it is happening. WBC, C200, Catalyst and Ascend discuss the data, strategies and realities of women CEOs across the business landscape.

Moderator: Kevin Cirilli, Founder, Meet the Future NOW
Jennifer McCollum, President and CEO, Catalyst
Anna Mok, President, Ascend Leadership
Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

12:15 – 12:45 PM ET

CLOSING THE GAP: BOOSTING INVESTMENT IN WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES
Women-owned and led businesses have a deep impact on today’s economy yet they receive only 2% of venture capital. At the same time, women represent only 12% of decision-makers across the capital landscape. This panel will discuss strategies for fostering investment in women-owned enterprises and growing the number of women leaders in capital.

Moderator: Angela Dingle, CEO, WIPP
Nicole Cober, Founder, The BOW Collective
Denielle Finkelstein, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, Unicorn
Josephine Moran, President & CEO, Ledyard National Bank
Lisa Roberts, Senior Executive Vice President, Head of US Markets, Wilmington Trust
Kelly Skalicky, President & CEO, Stearns Bank National Association

12:45 – 1:15 PM ET

2024 CEO EXCELLENCE IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD RECIPIENTS
The WBC CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity Award recognizes corporate leaders whose efforts have made significant contributions to the advancement of diversity within their companies and increased opportunities for women in business roles. Join us for part two of our conversation with this year’s CEO Excellence in Gender Equity and Diversity award winners.

Priscilla Almodovar, Chief Executive Officer, Fannie Mae
Priscilla Sims Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer, Amalgamated Bank
Judy Marks, Chair, Chief Executive Officer and President, Otis Worldwide Corporation

1:15 – 1:45 PM ET

BREAKOUT PANELS
ELEVATING VOICES: WOMEN OF COLOR IN LEADERSHIP
Women of color are often underrepresented in leadership and yet make up a significant portion of today’s workforce. Companies must ensure that they are meeting the needs and expectations of women of color in their workforce by recognizing the unique lived experiences and challenges faced by the varied identities that make up this group. Join our speakers to hear about the experiences of women of color in the workforce and highlights of WBC’s Women of Color in Leadership report.

Moderator: Kimberly Lee Minor, CEO WOC Retail Alliance (WOCRA)
Purba Majumder, CEO, Cybervation
Victoria Holland, Congressional Delegate, United Keetoowah Band
Sandra Quince, Co-Chair and Board Member, Paradigm for Parity

BEYOND PLACEMENT: ADVANCING DEI IN STAFFING AND EMPLOYMENT
The staffing industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that provides temporary, contract, and permanent placement employees to businesses in a variety of industries with a workforce that encompasses diversity in race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity and identity. Join us for a conversation with industry leaders on how they are working to strengthen DEI in their organizations and the industries they support.

Moderator: Kip Wright, Chairman, INSPYR Solutions and WBC Board Member
Megan McCann, CEO, McCann Partners and Board Member, Techserve Alliance Board
Joanie Bily, Division President, Employbridge & Chair of the Board of Directors, American Staffing Association (ASA)
Francesca Profeta, Research Analyst, Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA)

BOARDROOM DIVERSITY: TRANSFORMATION IN CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Diverse board leadership can have a transformative impact on the decisions made by the senior leadership of a company and the evolution of organizational culture. Inclusive boards drive innovation, foster creativity, and enhance decision-making processes by bringing a range of perspectives and experiences to the table. Key leaders on this panel share insights, strategies, and success stories highlighting the profound impact of diversity in shaping the future of corporate governance.

Moderator: Belen Gomez, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Communications, Equilar
Singleton McAllister, Of Counsel, Husch Blackwell LLP
Mercedes Romero, Chief Procurement Officer, Primo Water & Independent Director at JB Sanfilippo and Marinemax
Angela Sun, Public Company Director, The Western Union Company, Cushman & Wakefield, Apollo Portfolio Company, Maxim Crane
Kamilah Thomas, Chief People Officer, Avaya & Public Company Director at Mastercraft

PATHWAYS TO LEADERSHIP: ADVANCING WOMEN INTO THE C-SUITE
As the overall number of women elevated to the C-Suite continues to be slow, especially for women of color, it is critical that businesses outline actionable strategies to move women into the c-suite and inevitably into CEO roles. Join our panel to hear actionable strategies and organizational initiatives aimed at breaking barriers and cultivating women for executive roles. Explore how fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the leadership journey not only benefits individuals but also drives organizational success and innovation.

Moderator: Gracie Lozano, Vice President, Senior HR Business Partner, USAA
Rashmi Chaturvedi, President, Kaygen

Simone Jentsch, VP Operations, Programs & Enablement, Akamai Technologies
Tai Koottatep, Director and General Manager, Worldwide B2B Payments & Lending, Amazon
Georgina Mayback, Managing Director & New York Tri-State Division Executive, Bank of America

1:45 – 2:05 PM ET

TRAILBLAZER IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD
WBC is pleased to award Vernā Myers, Founder and President of the Vernā Myers Company our Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award in recognition their remarkable contributions to gender equity and diversity.

Award Recipient: Vernā Myers, President, The Vernā Myers Company
Fireside Chat Moderator and Award Presenter: Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

2:05 – 2:25 PM ET

TRAILBLAZER IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD
WBC is pleased to award Charles Johnson, President of SodexoMagic our Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award in recognition their remarkable contributions to gender equity and diversity.

Award Recipient: Charles Johnson, President, SodexoMagic
Fireside Chat Moderator and Award Presenter: Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

2:25 – 2:45 PM ET

ALLYSHIP IN ACTION: TRANSFORMING WORKPLACE CULTURE
Allyship plays a critical role in building inclusive workplaces and cultures that foster belonging. Being an effective ally requires an intentional commitment to creating and nurturing relationships across the organization. Join our panel for a conversation on what effective allyship looks like in companies and how leaders can create positive change in their organizations and with their colleagues.

Moderator: Fabrice Houdart, Executive Director Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors
Helen Dietz, Managing Director – Total Wealth Management, Partner, Aspiriant
Maureen Howard, Vice President Equality & Inclusion, P&G
Gavriella Schuster, CEO, Gavriella Schuster, LLC

2:45 – 3:15 PM ET

CORPORATE LEADERSHIP: HARNESSING THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY
Tech leadership is critical to the success of business. Top women technology leaders including CIOS, CTOs and CISOs as well as leaders in cyber, AI, data analytics are more important than ever as companies transform their technological capabilities to meet the needs of the future. Join us for a dynamic conversation about how corporate tech leaders are harnessing the power of technology and data to drive successful outcomes in their organizations.

Moderator: Johanna Jones, President and CEO, ITSMF
Jo-Anna Rubin-Berman, Vice President of US HR Shared Services, Munich RE
Jennifer Bryant, Senior Director, Chief of Staff, Associate Experience and Engagement, Capital One
Jennifer Jones, USLI Chief Operating Officer, Genworth Financial

3:15 – 3:35 PM ET

TRAILBLAZER IN GENDER EQUITY AND DIVERSITY AWARD: LUCY SANDERS
WBC is pleased to award Lucy Sanders, Founder and Executive in Residence at The National Center for Women in Technology (NCWIT), our Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity Award in recognition of her remarkable contributions to gender equity and diversity.

Lucy Sanders, Founder and Executive in Residence at The National Center for Women in Technology (NCWIT)
Interviewed by Gwen K. Young, Chief Executive Officer, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

3:35 – 4:05 PM ET

TRUST AND TRANSFORMATION: BUILDING A CULTURE OF BELONGING IN THE WORKPLACE
More than ever, building a workplace grounded in trust is critical to the success of a business. This is even more important as employees look to their companies to provide stability for them in an increasingly turbulent landscape. Building a culture of trust in belonging in the workplace is critical as organizations move into the next evolution of the workplace.

Moderator: Dr. Rachel-Yvonne Talton, Founder and CEO, Synergy
Dr. Joy Dettorre, Global D&I Leader, IBM
Chloe Lemelle, Assistant Vice President of Workforce Diversity, AT&T
Nathan C. Pierce, Culture & Diversity Engagement Specialist, Tata Consultancy Services – TCS

4:05 – 4:35 PM ET

LEVERAGING INCLUSIVE GROWTH THROUGH SUSTAINABILITY
As sustainability strategies shape the future of our world, it is essential to prioritize inclusive growth in this agenda. As the world changes quickly, ensuring that economic progress benefits everyone — especially those most vulnerable — is key to fostering a more resilient and equitable world. Hear from trailblazing leaders who are driving transformation in their industries, as they share experience, insights, and practical strategies to create meaningful change from within.

Moderator: Balaji Ganapathy, Chief Social Responsibility Officer and Global Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Tata Consultancy Service and WBC Board Member
Tequila Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Reworld Waste
Marika McCauley Sine, Chief Sustainability Officer, Mars Petcare and Board Member, WBC

4:35 – 4:45 PM ET

IMPACT TALK: THE SCIENCE OF TURNING IMAGINATION INTO REALITY

Tiffany Norwood, Founder & CEO, Tribetan

4:45 – 5:10 PM ET

INCLUSION: TRANSFORMING OPERATIONS TO MEET THE REALITIES OF TODAY’S BUSINESS LANDSCAPE
The current landscape of the workplace requires companies to be intentional in all aspects of building company culture and their operations. Without a strong commitment to equitable and inclusive employee engagement strategies and practices, organizations cannot retain strong talent, lose competitive advantage and are less likely to increase their customer base. Join our speakers to hear how companies are transforming their operations and their organizational narrative to meet the expectations of the next generation of talent and consumers.

Moderator: Amy LaBella Rossi, Vice President, Lead Business Execution Consultant Commercial Banking Diverse Segments, Wells Fargo
Tracy Gee, Chief People Officer, NACD
Ashley Marchand Orme, Director of Equity and Stakeholder Leadership, Just Capital
Ryan Mitchell, Global Director – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, CBRE

5:10 – 5:20 PM ET

CLOSING REMARKS – HARNESSING OUR COLLECTIVE MOMENTUM FOR THE PATH FORWARD

Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

Speakers
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In the Arena: Women Leading Sports
2024-09-25 17:30 - 20:00 UTC | National Press Club, 529 14th St NW, Washington, DC, 20045, United States
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“In the Arena: Women Leading Sports” is an exclusive VIP reception that brings together influential women from the sports industry, policy-making, journalism, and business. This event is a part of the Women Business Collaborative’s (WBC) Action for Impact Summit.
Panel Discussion:
Join us for a compelling discussion moderated by legendary sportscaster Lesley Visser, featuring insights from Gwen Young, Chryssa Zizos, Briana Scurry, and Kate Greenberg. These leaders will share their experiences and strategies for advancing women’s roles in sports and business.
About WBC:
The Women Business Collaborative is a coalition of over 85 organizations and hundreds of business leaders committed to achieving equal position, pay, and power for all women in business. WBC advances this mission through collaboration, advocacy, action, and accountability.
Key Highlights:

Engage with Leaders: Network with top professionals in sports, business, and policy.
Learn from Experts: Gain insights from women who are leading the charge for gender equality.
Celebrate Achievements: Honor the contributions of this year’s CEO and Trailblazer awardees.

For more information, please contact us at events@wbcollaborative.org

National Girls & Women in Sports Day Film Screening
2025-02-04 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Angelika Pop-Up 550 Penn St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA, 550 Penn St NE, Washington, DC, United States
Days Hours Minutes Seconds
National Girls & Women in Sports Day Film Screening: The Herricanes
February 4, 2025 | Angelika Film Center Pop-Up550 Penn St NE, Washington, DC 20025

Click Here to Register

Join Us for an Inspiring Screening on National Girls and Women in Sports Day!
Celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day with the Women Business Collaborative and the UFL DC Defenders as we honor the trailblazing women of the Houston Herricanes, the first full-tackle women’s football team from the 1970s.
Event Details📅 Date: February 4, 2025⏰ Time: 7:00 PM📍 Location: Angelika Film Center Pop-Up – 550 Penn St NE, Washington, DC 20002🎟️ Tickets: $25
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCnF9ReZrI8
This event is part of the In the Arena Initiative by the Women Business Collaborative, highlighting women’s leadership across the sports industry. Join us as we dive into the untold story of courage, resilience, and love for the game. Filmmaker Olivia Kuan explores the journey of the Houston Herricanes, who defied odds, stereotypes, and challenges to pave the way for future generations of women in football. The Herricanes has been recognized with the Documentary Spotlight Audience Award and Special Jury Recognition at the 2023 South by Southwest Film Festival.
Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of women in sports, reflect on the progress made, and explore how we can continue to champion women’s leadership in the nation’s most beloved game.
Don’t miss this inspiring evening of film, conversation, and community.
Reserve your spot today!

Click Here to Register

Power Players: General Counsels Shaping the DMV’s Sports Landscape
2025-03-04 13:00 - 14:30 UTC | Paul Hastings LLP, 2050 M St NW, Washington, DC, United States
Power Players: General Counsels Shaping the DMV’s Sports Landscape
March 4, 2025 | Paul Hastings LLP2050 M St NW Washington, D.C.

Click Here to Register

Join us on March 4, 2025, for an engaging panel discussion spotlighting women at the forefront of legal leadership in the DMV’s dynamic sports industry. Hosted by Women Business Collaborative (WBC) and Paul Hastings LLP in Washington, D.C., this event celebrates International Women’s Day 2025 and the impactful contributions of leaders shaping the region’s sports landscape.
Featuring insights from top legal executives representing the Washington Capitals, Wizards, Mystics and Spirit, the UFL DC Defenders, and D.C. United, the event will explore pivotal legal trends, career journeys, and the ongoing rise of women’s business leadership in sports.
Enjoy networking opportunities, thought-provoking discussion, and a chance to connect with trailblazing leaders in sports law. Registration is open to WBC members and the public—space is limited.
The Agenda
All times are listed in Eastern Time (ET) Additional details will be provided as they become available.

March 4, 2025

1:00 pm: Arrival and Registration

1:20 pm: Welcome & Introduction

Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative

1:30 pm: Panel Discussion

Abby Blomstrom, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Monumental Sports & Entertainment
Shameeka Quallo, Chief Legal Officer, Washington Spirit
Jessica Wright, General Counsel, D.C. United and DC Power FC
Tara Giunta, WBC Board Advisor (Moderator)

2:05 pm: Audience Q&A

2:15 pm: Closing Remarks

Click Here to Register

Speakers
Abby Blomstrom
Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Monumental Sports & EntertainmentAs Executive Vice President & General Counsel for Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Abby Blomstrom is responsible for advising senior management on key legal and strategic matters as well as managing all legal matters for the organization’s sports and business operations.
Prior to joining Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Blomstrom served as assistant general counsel at AOL Inc., where she was the lead attorney for mergers and acquisitions and venture investments and was responsible for corporate legal matters. She earned her undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and her law degree from Northwestern University School of Law.
Shameeka Quallo
Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Washington SpiritShameeka Quallo, Esq. is the Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the Washington Spirit, where she leads Legal, Human Resources, and IT functions, driving strategic vision and fostering a culture grounded in diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a business-savvy legal executive, Shameeka provides strategic counsel to ownership and leadership on corporate decisions, contracts, and policy implications.
She is instrumental in negotiating major business contracts and developing policies that ensure compliance and mitigate organizational risk. Her leadership inspires high-performing teams and delivers measurable results.
Before joining the Spirit, Shameeka held key legal and DEI roles across several sports organizations, including Associate General Counsel and Senior Director of DEI for the Chicago Cubs, Associate General Counsel and Director of DEI at International Speedway Corporation (motorsports), and Associate Counsel for the Ladies Professional Golf Association. In these roles, she supported critical business initiatives across contract negotiation, labor and employment, compliance, and litigation management.
Previously, Shameeka spent a decade as an auditor with the National Futures Association, conducting risk-based financial and compliance examinations to maintain market integrity in commodities, options, and forex trading.
Beyond her professional roles, Shameeka is committed to community service. She is Vice-Chair of the board of USA Weightlifting, a board member of DC Scores, and serves on the council of the James R. Jordan Boys & Girls Club. She formerly served as Board Chair of Junior Achievement of Volusia County and Vice-Chair of Delta House North.
Shameeka is a life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and she serves as an arbitrator with FINRA.
Jessica Wright
General Counsel, D.C. United, DC Power FC, Audi Field and Segra Field
Jessica Wright is General Counsel for multiple entities including D.C. United, a Major League Soccer team; DC Power FC, a USL Super League team; Audi Field, a 20,000-seat stadium in Washington DC; Segra Field, a 5,000-seat stadium in Loudoun County, VA; the Inova Performance Complex, a state-of-the-art training facility in Loudoun County that is home to D.C. United, DC Power FC, Loudoun United FC, and the Washington Spirit.
Jessica’s responsibilities include matters related to the teams, venues, employees, new investors, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, and corporate governance across the entire organization. In her current role, she has worked to bring the XFL back to Audi Field; open the FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field; secure four separate front of jersey deals including the first cryptocurrency related front of jersey sponsorship deal in MLS; open and handle the naming rights for the Inova Performance Complex; bring in some of the biggest names in the sport as players and coaches; and secure and execute the 2023 MLS All-Star Game as well as the Broccoli City Festival, both at Audi Field.
She is also currently engaged in building a high-rise residential building with an entertainment venue on the ground floor adjacent to Audi Field, investigating building another stadium in the DMV, and creating/obtaining additional franchises. Prior to accepting her current role, Jessica was an associate attorney at a small firm in Manhattan Beach, CA where she practiced in the fields of business, contracts, intellectual property, and real estate law. Jessica has been a mediator since 1997 and a trained arbitrator since 2015.
In addition to associates degrees in English, Psychology, and Transfer Studies, she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from San Diego State University, J.D. from Southwestern Law School, LL.M. in Entertainment and Media Law from Southwestern Law School, and M.B.A. from California State University, Monterey Bay.
Tara K. Giunta
Strategic Risk Advisor, Governance Expert
Tara K. Giunta recently retired as a partner in the global law firm, Paul Hastings, where she was Global Co-Chair, ESG & Sustainable Finance practice and a member of the firm’s Investigations and White Collar Defense practice, which is routinely recognized by the Global Investigations Review (GIR) as a leading investigations practice and one of a handful of global “elite” practice groups. Ms. Giunta is a recognized risk, strategy and compliance expert and advisor to global companies on corporate governance and enterprise risk management. She advises C-suites and boards in identifying and mitigating risks, developing and enhancing compliance programs, investigating and remediating wrongdoing and/or internal control weaknesses, conducting compliance-related due diligence in M&A and other commercial transactions, and developing reporting and disclosure frameworks.

About WBC’s In the Arena Initiative
Women Business Collaborative (WBC) is an unprecedented alliance of 85+ partner organizations, 65+ corporate sponsors and hundreds of business leaders building a movement to achieve equal position, pay, and power for all women in business.
In the Arena builds a bridge between sports industries and the wider corporate arena, empowers more women to step into leadership positions and creates a stronger, more diverse workforce.
By being part of WBC’s Women’s Leadership in the Sports Industry Initiative, your company will be making a strategic investment in the future of business and sports, building an ecosystem for women to advance into leadership positions in not only the sports industry, but in all business.
Through partnering with WBC, your organization will be positioned to:

Enhance brand reputation & corporate responsibility
Strengthen your brand’s association with diversity and athletic excellence
Attract & retain top women talent with athletic leadership skills
Network with key stakeholders and influence policy & industry change
Boost financial & cultural performance by supporting women leaders
Be part of the movement shaping the future of sports & business

Accelerate Action: Empowering Women in Cybersecurity & AI
2025-03-06 16:00 - 17:30 UTC | Virtual
Days Hours Minutes Seconds
Accelerate Action: Empowering Women in Cybersecurity & AI
March 6, 20254:30-5:30 PM | Virtual
Register

Women Business Collaborative (WBC) and Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) are proud to present Accelerate Action: Empowering Women in Cybersecurity & AI, a virtual event celebrating International Women’s Day 2025.
This program brings together two powerful organizations committed to advancing women’s leadership in technology and business, combining WBC’s mission of achieving equal position, pay, and power for all women in business with ITSMF’s dedication to increasing Black representation in senior technology roles.
This public event will convene distinguished policy makers, industry leaders, and technology executives for an evening of meaningful dialogue and networking. The program will explore critical themes at the intersection of innovation, security, and inclusive leadership, addressing how diverse leadership perspectives are essential for navigating the complex landscape of emerging technologies.
Register

Agenda
All times are listed in Eastern Time (ET)

March 6, 2025

4:00 pm: Stream Start

4:05 pm: Welcoming Remarks

4:10 pm: Fireside Chat

Alicia Little; Chief Executive Officer, AI InnoVision
Johanna Jones; President & CEO, ITSMF (Moderator)

4:35 pm: Audience Q&A

4:45 pm: Panel Discussion

Yasmin Banerjee; Director of Professional Services, Akamai Technologies
Sherron Burgess; Global Senior Vice President and CISO, BCD Travel
Gwen K. Young; CEO, Women Business Collaborative

5:10 pm: Audience Q&A

5:25 pm: Closing Remarks

WBC Entrepreneurs of Purpose Weekend Retreat
2025-03-07 08:00 - 2025-03-08 18:00 (America/New_York) | Watergate Hotel, 2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20037, United States
Days Hours Minutes Seconds
Entrepreneurs of Purpose Weekend Retreat
March 7-8 | Watergate Hotel2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037

Agenda
All times are listed in Eastern Time (ET) Additional details will be provided as they become available.

March 7, 2025

March 8, 2025

Reflect and Recharge Together with Scale & Opportunity
10:00 AM MILITARY WOMEN’S MEMORIALAn Inspirational Journey and Our Own InspirationBus departs from Watergate Hotel to National Memorial at 10:00 AM.Hosted by Diedre Windsor, CEO, Windsor Group LLC with Phyllis Wilson, Retired Army Chief Warrant Officer and President, Women in Military Service and the America Memorial Foundation Inc. and Edna W. Cummings, Retired Army Colonel, Author and 6888 Champion

11:30 AM RETURN TO THE WATERGATE HOTEL AND LIBRARY

12:00 PM LUNCH: From Purpose to CourageHosted by Joyce Salzberg, CEO, Sunny Days

WELCOME – Amplifying our Collective Voices for PurposeDiscover the ‘Why,’ Explore the ‘What,’ and Amplify Our VoicesLed by Edie Fraser, Chair, WBC Board Directors and Sharon Reynolds, CEO, DevMar Manufacturing, WBC Board Director
Impact – Voices with Purpose, Impact with ActionLed by Andrea Simon, Founder and CEO, SAMC
Thank you from WBC and Entrepreneurs with Purpose — Highlighting Why Collaboration Is Essential – Gwen Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

12:30 PM COURAGE IS KEY – The Courage Gap – How Courage Fits All of Us!Dr. Margie Warrell, Leadership Advisor, Author, SpeakerMargie Warrell, in The Courage Gap, explores how fear and doubt hold us back, urging us to close the gap between where we are and where we want to be by summoning courage. She emphasizes that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act in its presence, empowering individuals to take bold steps toward their goals. Warrell’s insights remind us that courage is a universal trait that resides within all of us, waiting to be tapped into as we face challenges and create meaningful change in our lives.

1:00 PM PANEL: Voices of the Women of Entrepreneurs of PurposeLearn more about giving back to the community, scaling your businesses, implementing an integrated approach to purpose, leaving a legacy and philanthropy, and elevating our voices to show our contributions and commitment.

Esther Aguilera, Senior Advisor, Altura Capital and Senior Advisor, ALPFA, WBC Board Director
Gerri Mason Hall, Principal, The P3 Team and Senior Advisor, Astellara, WBC Board Director
Janice Migliore, CEO & Chair, PALCO
Joyce Salzberg, CEO, Sunny Days
Moderator: Andrea Simon, Founder and CEO, SAMC

2:00 PM PANEL: Purpose-Driven Leadership StrategiesExplore practical approaches from five women entrepreneurs on building team cultures, sustaining purpose, and scaling businesses with community impact. Gain insights on overcoming challenges, fostering inclusivity, and turning connections into contracts.

Crystal Davis, CEO, The Lean Coach, Inc.
Theresa Harrison, Senior Managing Partner, George Street Services
Sandra Long, Owner & CEO, SLA Worldwide and Publisher, HBCU News
Dr. Felicia Phillips, CEO, Heartland Solutions Incorporated
Sue Watkins, CEO & President, Telecom Transport Services
Moderator: Sharon Reynolds, CEO, DevMar Enterprises and WBC Board Director

3:00 PM COLLABORATION ON PURPOSEHow entrepreneurs can align their ventures with meaningful impact, partnerships, innovation, and shared values to drive both profit and positive change.Led by Sima Ladjevardian, Chair, National Women’s Business Council, Entrepreneur Advocate

3:15 PM BREAK

3:30 PM MINDFULNESS SESSION: Purposeful Pause with Dr. Renette DallasGood healthy life and Guided mindfulness and journaling session, helping participants reconnect with their inner motivation and energy.
Led by Dr. Renette Dallas, CEO, Life by Dallas IncIntroduction by Andi Simon, Founder and CEO, SAMC

4:00 PM PURPOSE AND IMPACTCommunicating the link between purpose and impact. A discussion with key entrepreneurs in the DMV on how they are driving, inspiring, and multiplying impact by elevating women.

Jenn White, Host, 1A, NPR/WAMU
Erika Pulley-Hayes, General Manager, WAMU
India Gary-Martin, Founder and CEO, Leadership For Execs and Relucent Learning, WBC Board Chair Elect
Sharon Reynolds, CEO, DevMar Manufacturing, WBC Board Director
Ilene Rosenthal, CEO, Footsteps to Brilliance
Helen Stefan Moreau, Founder & CEO, The Midtown Group
Diedre Windsor, CEO, Windsor Group LLC
Moderator: Edie Fraser, Chair, WBC Board Directors

4:45 PM WORKSHOP: Balancing Purpose and Personal Well-BeingExplore strategies for maintaining mental and physical health while leading a purpose-driven business. Discuss resilience practices and the “Thrive” approach to fostering collective commitment for 2025.Led by Dr. Barbara Brown, Founder and CEO, CapitolHill Consortium for Counseling & Consultation (CCCC)

5:15 PM WBC ENTREPRENEURS OF PURPOSERaising our voices and using communications.
Led by India Gary-Martin, Founder and CEO, Leadership For Execs and Relucent Learning, WBC Board Chair Elect and Gwen Young, CEO, WBC

5:30 PM TOAST: Our Voices and Impact

Edie Fraser, Chair, WBC Board Directors
Sharon Reynolds, CEO, DevMar Manufacturing, WBC Board Director

6:00 PM BREAK

6:30 PM DINNER: Evening Reflections On Our Collective GlowAt the Watergate Hotel.
Travel and Hospitality hosted by Gloria Bohan, CEO and Founder, Omega World Travel with Windstar and Delta, with Edie Fraser, Sharon Reynolds, Gwen Young
7:30 AM BREAKFASTHosted by Shoshana Grove, CEO, International Bridge

8:00 AM SETTING INTENTIONS FOR JOY and BEING A WARRIOREach participant sets a personal intention to focus their energy and vision and how creating intention builds joy.Led by Bershan Shaw, CEO, Warrior Training, Int’l Executive Leadership Trainer

8:15 AM VOICES OF ENTREPRENEURS OF PURPOSEYour purpose in business, life & legacy success deserves huge visibility. Are you ready to make headlines with Purpose? Join the media and marketing voices and celebrate the Proclamation from the Mayor. Signing of EOP commitment. Photos and Red Carpet!Hosted by Laura Fote, CEO, L&B Concepts

9:30 AM WORKSHOP: Amplifying Purpose in Brand and Marketing for Entrepreneurs of PurposeParticipants can explore storytelling techniques, digital presence, and outreachmethods that align with their values.

Erika Baez-Grimes, CM&AP – Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional, Senior Business Broker – Transworld Business Advisors
Donna Miller, MBA, SPHR-SCP, Co-Founder and CEO, Purse Power
Delia Passi, Founder and CEO, MyCabinet
Ilene Rosenthal, CEO, Footsteps to Brilliance
Glenda Thomas, CEO, Electrica Grid Solutions
Moderator: Dr. Rachel-Yvonne Talton, Founder & CEO, Synergy

10:30 AM BOLD LEADERSHIPInvesting into leadership for big and bold outcomes. Invest in Women in Business to Accelerate Action, Growth and ImpactLed by Monika Mantilla, CEO and Founder, Altura Capital

10:45 AM COLLABORATIVE SESSION: Key Voices in Capital, Innovation and Scale for PurposeParticipants share challenges and receive feedback from fellow entrepreneurs and core action ahead.
CAPITAL – Kathie Okun, President, Okun Financial GroupINNOVATION – Susan Brennan, President, Susan Brennan LeadershipSCALING BUSINESS AND GIVING BACK – Joyce Salzberg, CEO, Sunny DaysModerator: Gwen Young, CEO, WBC

11:30 AM BREAK AND CHECKOUT FROM HOTEL

12:00 PM LUNCH & NETWORKINGInteractive networking designed to strengthen bonds and foster future collaborative Success.Hosted by Ilene Rosenthal, CEO, Footsteps to Brilliance

1:00 PM LIght Her Way with Capital and Purposeful ActionJoyce Johnson, Global Private Debt and Equity Investor, introduction by Edie Fraser, Chair, WBC Board Directors and Sharon Reynolds, Founder and CEO DevMar Manufacturing, WBC Board Director

1:15 PM PANEL: Beyond Profit – Creating a Legacy: Where you are now and what are your commitments?Entrepreneurs share how they have created long-term, meaningful commitments and action with legacy. Participants can share their insights and actions, fostering an engaging dialogue on personal and professional legacies.

Rashmi Chaturvedi, Co-founder and President, KAYGEN, Inc.
Lynne Hardin, Founder and President Justice4All
Nicole Loftus, Founder & CEO, Pop Venture
Deborah Ward, Founder and CEO, UV BIOCLEAN
Moderator: Michael Norris, CEO, Urban Legacies, WBC Board Director

2:15 PM Our Commitment to Purposeful ActionGroup discussion and feedback on how we are moving forward together. Celebration of Legacy.

3:00 PM Accelerating Our Voices and Purpose for ImpactCelebration of achievements and growth, setting intentions to stay connected and support each other’s journey forward. Closing discussion on how to move forward collaboratively, building on WBC Entrepreneurs of Purpose and purpose.
Led by Edie Fraser, Chair, WBC Board Directors and Sharon Reynolds, CEO, DevMar Manufacturing, WBC Board Director

4:00 PM FASTER TOGETHER WITH PURPOSE

Deliberately Different Leadership
2025-03-26 12:15 - 13:00 UTC | Virtual
Days Hours Minutes
Deliberately Different Leadership: A Conversation on Timeless Traits and Modern Challenges
March 26, 2025
12:15–1:00 PM | Virtual Webinar

Zoom Webinar Registration

Join Women Business Collaborative (WBC) for an engaging conversation with Judee von Seldeneck, Founder and Chair Emeritus of founding WBC sponsor, Diversified Search Group (DSG), and Aileen Alexander, DSG’s current CEO, as they discuss their new book, Deliberately Different: Fifty Years. Two Generations. Leading in a Changing World.
Moderated by WBC CEO Gwen K. Young, Judee and Aileen will share their leadership journeys, the evolving role of executives in today’s business landscape, and the power of mentorship across generations. From the early days of breaking barriers to leading through transformation, this discussion will offer invaluable insights on how leaders can adapt, inspire, and drive change in an increasingly complex world.
This is a must-attend event for executives, emerging leaders, and anyone interested in the future of leadership. Participants will gain insights from 50 years of leadership and transition, exploring how leadership qualities have evolved while key principles remain timeless.
For more about Deliberately Different, visit deliberatelydifferentbook.com.

Zoom Webinar Registration

Agenda

March 26, 2025

12:15 pm: Webinar Begins

12:20 pm: Moderated Discussion

12:45 pm: Audience Q&A

12:55 pm: Webinar Concludes
Speakers

Aileen Alexander, CEO, Diversified Search Group
Judee von Seldeneck, Founder and Chair Emeritus of Diversified Search Group
Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative (Moderator)

On Deliberately Different: Fifty Years. Two Generations. Leading in a Changing World:

“You need the incredible insights from this conversation between two of the world’s top multi-dimensional leaders, so that you learn how to lead with integrity, practice effective strategy, and adapt easily to innovation.”
— Mel Robbins, New York Times bestselling author and award-winning host of The Mel Robbins Podcast
“In navigating the complexities of modern business, understanding CEO succession, executive leadership development, and strategic Diversity and Inclusion consulting is crucial. Deliberately Different eloquently captures these elements through the insights of Judee von Seldeneck and Aileen K. Alexander. Their compelling road map makes this book an indispensable resource for leaders committed to fostering inclusive and dynamic leadership.”
— Michael C. Hyter, President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council (ELC)
Speakers

Aileen K. Alexander, whose career spans the public and private sectors, is CEO of Diversified Search Group (DSG). She advises boards and executives from Fortune 500 to private-equity-backed and mid-market companies. Beginning her career in the military, she became a US Army captain. She’s also served in government, working on national security policy at the Department of Defense and in the US House of Representatives. Aileen is a graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School and Johns Hopkins University. She has received numerous awards and has been quoted as a thought leader in various publications, including Barrons, Bloomberg, Forbes, and Fortune.

Judith M. “Judee” von Seldeneck, Founder and Chair Emeritus of Diversified Search Group (DSG), was executive assistant to US Senator Walter F. Mondale before buying into and then acquiring a small Philadelphia firm founded to help women find professional roles. Over five decades, Judee built it into a national top ten executive search firm and the largest such woman-founded one in the world.
A longtime advocate for women entrepreneurs, she recently established the JVS Philadelphia Fund for Women. She’s served on numerous public company boards, has been named to the 2022 Forbes 50 Over 50 list, and is the only two-time Lifetime Achievement Award winner from the Association of Executive Search Consultants.

Women's Capital Summit 2025
2025-05-21 - 2025-05-22 | Wells Fargo Connections, 150 East 42nd Street, New York, New York
2025 WBC Women’s Capital Summit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIIe_SSE-R8
Investing for Impact: Connecting Leading Women Entrepreneurs and the Investors Who Fund Them

The third annual Women’s Capital Summit was held in New York, NY, on May 21-22, 2025. The two-day event convened nearly 240 entrepreneurs, investors, partners, and stakeholders for a dynamic two-day event focused on unlocking capital for women-led businesses. The Summit provided a strategic platform to educate attendees on the evolving capital landscape in 2025 and explore how capital influences growth at every stage of a company’s journey.
Summit Highlights and Outcomes

A Capital Community, Connected: The 2025 Women’s Capital Summit had a total of 237 participants, representing 235 unique organizations. Among the attendees were 102 entrepreneurs, 83 capital providers, and 50 speakers, while WBC also welcomed industry experts, WBC Partner Organizations, Sponsors, and Champions to the program.

Entrepreneurs Across Industries: The Summit attracted a broad and diverse range of entrepreneurs from various industries. Technology led as the top industry focus (24.49%), followed by Healthcare (14.29%) and Finance (12.24%). “Other” represents sectors such as Education, Retail, Manufacturing, and Real Estate, highlighting a broad but tech-forward entrepreneur base.
Capital Matchmaking & Deal Flow: The Summit facilitated nearly 40 curated investor-founder meetings, fostering real-time feedback, connections, and capital conversations, with ongoing follow-up to track funding outcomes.
Expert-Led Business Workshops: Eight interactive breakout sessions delivered actionable insights on funding, scaling, and strategic exits—equipping attendees with practical tools from top legal, finance, and private equity experts.
Marketplace & Reception: The WCS Marketplace featured 17 women-led businesses, offering visibility and networking during a high-energy reception that connected founders, funders, and partners in a celebratory close to the day
Every Kind of Capital: Participating capital providers spanned the spectrum of capital with debt, venture, private equity firms. These investors show a strong interest across a diverse range of industries, including leading sectors like Technology & Software, Financial Services & Banking, and Healthcare, as well as emerging areas such as Renewable Energy and CleanTech.

Opportunity for All-Sized Ventures: The typical investment range of providers is under $500,000, with investors seeking to fund in mid-sized investments, primarily in the $1–10 million range, indicating a focus on early to growth-stage funding rounds.

Summit Gallery

Speakers Include:
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Summit Agenda

May 21, 2025

May 22, 2025

12:30 pm: Arrival and Registration, Capital Matchmaking Participants

12:45 pm-2:00pm: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; spots are limited)

1:30 pm: Arrival and Registration, General Admission

2:15 pm: Welcome Remarks

2:30 pm: Breakout Sessions: Navigating Capital
Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30–3:15

Are you Angel Curious? Angel Investing 101This session will focus on what angels look for in investments, and what entrepreneurs need to consider when raising funding from angels. The discussion will also provide an overview of what angel investing is and why it’s so important to get more women involved. This session will be relevant for both entrepreneurs and investors who may be considering becoming angel investors. Hosted by Lisa Friedlander and Stephanie Marshall, co-founder of Citrine Angels, an angel group of women investing in women.

Lisa Friedlander, Chief Revenue Officer, NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers
Stephanie Marshall, Board President and Co-Founder, Citrine Angels

Bank Lending – Alternatives to a Cash Flow LoanWhen traditional cash flow lending is not the right fit or not sufficient, there are other bank financing options available to support business growth and working capital needs. This session will highlight three alternatives – Asset Based Lending (ABL), SBA Lending, and Equipment Finance – each offering unique benefits depending on a company’s financial profile and capital requirements. Attendees will gain insights into: how asset-based lending leverages receivables, inventory, and other collateral; the advantages and eligibility requirements of SBA-backed loan programs; and how equipment financing can help preserve cash / provide liquidity.

Alexandra (Allie) Cavallaro, Director, Loan Originations, Wells Fargo
Laurie Hartman, Vice President, SBA Lending, Wells Fargo
James E. Frantz, Executive Director, Lead Credit Product Sales Specialist, Wells Fargo & Company

Strategic Decision-Making for Women Entrepreneurs: Navigating Ownership, Corporate Governance, and Legal Complexities
This breakout panel session is your chance to gain invaluable insights into making informed decisions that align with your business goals. We’ll dive into critical considerations for women-owned businesses, including the implications of different business structures (LLC, partnership) on scaling, capital raising, and ownership. We’ll also explore the importance of WBENC certification and how it can impact your business’s growth and control. Plus, you’ll walk away with essential legal insights on protecting your interests during negotiations and shaping the future of your business from now through to exit. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to optimize your business strategies and achieve your goals.

Phala Kimbrough Mire, President & CEO, WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV
LaFonda Willis, Securities Lawyer, Davis Wright Tremaine LLP

The Role of Accelerators: Catalyzing Business GrowthIn this breakout session, leaders from top accelerator programs will share how they support and grow high-potential entrepreneurs. Participants will gain a behind-the-scenes look at how accelerators provide founders with critical resources — including mentorship, funding access, and strategic guidance — to accelerate growth and scale with confidence. Through real-world insights and examples, attendees will learn what makes a successful accelerator experience, how to identify the right program, and how to fully leverage the opportunities these platforms offer. Whether you’re exploring accelerators for the first time or looking to deepen your engagement, this session offers practical guidance from the experts who run them.

Krista Covey, CEO & President, First Flight Venture Center
Dr. Shakenna Williams, Executive Director of the Frank & Eileen™ Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership (F&E CWEL), Babson College

Round 2 (45 mins) – 3:30–4:15

Beyond the Bank: Unlocking GrowthWhether you’re just getting started or preparing for your next stage of growth, securing the right kind of capital can make all the difference. In this interactive session, our panel of seasoned funding experts will introduce you to practical financing pathways beyond traditional bank loans, including asset-based lending, equipment leasing, and revenue-based financing. You’ll learn when each option is most appropriate, how to assess the risks and benefits, and what it takes to position your business to qualify. Together, we’ll break down key financial considerations in plain language, giving you the clarity and confidence to pursue capital that aligns with your growth goals. Join us to discover how you can unlock new opportunities and fund your future—beyond the bank.

Kim Storbeck, Director, CSC Leasing
Terry Keating, Managing Partner, Donald J. Keating & Sons
Le’Jean Thompson, Regional Business Manager – Northeast, Founders First

Capital Ready: Building Financial InfrastructureAt this session, attendees will learn what’s important in building the kind of financial infrastructure that makes their business attractive to investors and buyers. We’ll cover the financial systems, forecasting tools, and internal controls that signal readiness and scalability. Attendees will gain insight into how to shape a compelling financial narrative that highlights the company’s strengths, growth potential, and value drivers—key elements that influence valuation. The session will also highlight the legal and governance framework that underpins investor confidence—ensuring that ownership, financials, and decision-making authority are all properly aligned. Ultimately, this session will equip women business owners with the tools to be capital ready and investment-worthy.

Stephen Amdur, Partner – Mergers & Acquisitions and Private Equity Lead, Pillsbury
Karen A. Artasanchez, Shareholder, WilkinGuttenplan
Kathleen Reynolds, CFO and Principal, ProCFO Partners

The Current Landscape of Public Funding for BusinessesGain insights into the current landscape of public funding for businesses from a panel of national leaders in grassroots advocacy, program development, and community support for women-owned enterprises. Hear from leadership at Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC) in discussion with Women Business Collaborative (WBC). This session will offer practical perspectives on current discussions within nonprofit organizations that support women entrepreneurs, key developments in the social, economic, and political climate, and strategies for navigating public funding opportunities in 2025. It is essential for entrepreneurs seeking to access and effectively leverage public resources to grow and sustain their businesses.

Angela Dingle, President and CEO, Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP)
Corinne Goble, CEO, Association of Women’s Business Centers
Gwen K. Young, CEO, WBC

Power Moves & Smart Exits: Mergers, Acquisitions, and Ownership TransitionsThis breakout session is designed for founders, owners and aspiring entrepreneurs thinking about what’s next. This dynamic session will unpack real-world strategies for positioning you to enter Entrepreneurship through Acquisition or prepare your enterprise for a strong exit—whether through a sale, merger, or internal succession. Erika & Allegra will share insights from the front lines of the M&A world, including how to avoid common pitfalls and create value buyers can’t ignore. If you’re planning or ready to move now, this session will equip you with actionable steps to navigate your transition with clarity and confidence.

Erika Baez-Grimes, CM&AP Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional | Senior Business Broker – Transworld Business Advisors
Allegra Stennett, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, New Majority Capital

4:15 pm: Break

4:30 pm: In the Arena Fireside Chat – Women Investors in SportsFramed by WBC’s In the Arena: Women in Sports Business initiative, this fireside chat will explore the rapidly growing leadership of women investors in the sports industry, highlighting the vital role they play in shaping the landscape for major organizations such as the WNBA, USL Super League, and the NWLS. With a focus on the intersection of sports and capital, the panel will provide insights into how to navigate this emerging and dynamic industry and spotlight the expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs and leaders in the business of sports.

Moderator: Jocelyn Moore, Independent Board Director, DraftKings; Minority Owner, USL Super League Fort Lauderdale United FC
Panelists:

Lucy Dobrin, Managing Partner, Providence Equity Partners
Betsy Morgan, Co-Founder, Magnet Companies, and Board Member, TOGETHXR
Anne Sempowski Ward, Chairwoman of the Board, SPS Commerce, Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Curio Brands, and The Lip Bar; Minority Owner, WNBA Chicago Sky and USL Super League Fort Lauderdale United FC

5:30 pm: Opening Reception and Women’s Business Marketplace

7:00 pm: Reception Concludes
8:00 am: Arrival, Breakfast and Networking

9:00 am: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and CapitalWelcome remarks from Women Business Collaborative CEO, Gwen K. Young

9:05 am: From Kernel to Empire: Building a Successful BrandA Fireside Chat with Angie Bastian, Founder of BoomChickaPop led by WBC CEO Gwen K. YoungIn this candid keynote conversation moderated by WBC CEO Gwen K. Young, BoomChickaPop Founder Angie Bastian will tell the story behind the creation and growth of her snack empire—from the early days of popping corn in her garage to a major acquisition by Amplify Snacks. Attendees will gain insight into the unique challenges women face in scaling consumer brands, the realities of navigating acquisition, and the mentorship that exist for women entrepreneurs in today’s competitive market.

9:40 am: Navigating the Landscape of CapitalAccessing capital is critical for growth, but navigating the array of available options can be challenging. This session will provide clarity on selecting the right capital provider for your business, understanding investor goals, and making decisions based on your company’s strategy. Join our panel as they explore the diverse funding paths and discuss strategies for scaling your business with the right investments.

Moderator: Andrea Stevenson Conner, Ecosystem Development Director, First Flight Venture Center
Panelists:

Debt Segment

Catherine Frazier, National Senior Loan Officer, Momentous Capital
Emily Reeves, Vice President, Capital Solutions, Bridge
Lori Avedikian, Head of Women’s Segment, Commercial Banking, Wells Fargo

Capital Segment

Kelley Arena, Founder, Golden Hour Ventures
Loretta McCarthy, Co-CEO and Managing Partner, Golden Seeds
Blessy Thomas, Partner, Innovate Capital Growth Fund

10:45 am: Coffee Break

11:00 am: Setting the Table: Understanding Early-Stage CapitalEarly-stage capital is key to setting the right foundation for your business’s long-term growth. This session will delve into how to structure your business for investment from the beginning, with a focus on building traction for accelerating growth.

Mico-Panel 1:

Ali Kaminetsky, Founder, Modern Picnic
Kelly O’Connell, Managing Partner, 360 Venture Collective
Ramona Ortega, Co-Founder and CEO, WealthBuild

Mico-Panel 2:

Joley Michaelson, President & CEO, The Sun Company
Kelly Ann Winget, Founder and CEO, Alternative Wealth Partners

11:50 am: The Power of Women-Owned BusinessesPresenting Sponsor Remarks from Wells Fargo

Ruth Jacks, Executive Vice President, Head of Diverse Segments, Commercial Banking, Wells Fargo

12:00 pm: Networking LunchJoin us for a facilitated Networking Lunch where you will have the chance to engage in thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange insights, and forge meaningful relationships.

1:15 pm: Midday Fireside Chat – Building the Future Business Landscape

Damien Dwin, Founder and CEO, Lafayette Square Capital
Arsha Jones, Co-Founder and CEO, Capital City Mambo Sauce

2:00 pm: Growth Capital Unlocked: Funding Your Next StageScaling a business requires strategic use of capital, smart decision-making, and the right financial partnerships. In this session, our panel of experts will explore how to leverage growth capital effectively, maximize investment impact, and navigate the challenges of scaling. Learn how entrepreneurs and investors can align strategies to drive sustainable expansion and long-term success.

Moderator: La Keisha Landrum-Pierre, Co-Founder & General Partner, Emmeline Ventures
Anouck Gotlib, CEO, Belgian Boys
Alex Jung, Managing Partner and Co-Founder, Amateras Capital

2:25 pm: “Stretch” Break

2:35 pm: Mergers & Acquisitions as a Growth StrategyMergers and acquisitions (M&A) can be powerful tools for scaling women-owned businesses. This session will explore how M&A strategies can unlock transformational growth and create new opportunities for expansion and market penetration.

Moderator: Christina Bresani, Managing Director and Head of Mid-Cap Mergers & Acquisitions, Wells Fargo
Panelists:

Nadia Damouni, Partner, Prosek Partners
Norah Drummey, Partner, EY
Michelle Gasaway, Partner – Capital Markets, Skadden
Cate Luzio, Founder and CEO Luminary

3:15 pm: Engineering Your Exit: Envisioning the Future of Your Company While Building ItAs your business grows, it’s essential to think about its future. This session will discuss the importance of planning your exit strategy early and how to integrate it into your company’s broader growth plan.

Moderator: Eda Henries, Founder and Managing Principal, Henries & Co.
Panelists:

Norma Kuntz, CEO, Gordon Brothers
Allison London Brown, Co-Founder, LUMINELLE

3:55 pm: Closing Fireside Chat: Building the Future Business Landscape

Jesse Draper, Founder and CEO, Halogen Ventures

4:20 pm: Closing RemarksGwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative

5:15 pm: Closing Reception Concludes
Thank You!
Thank you to our 2025 WCS Steering Committee, speakers, attendees, WBC Partner Organizations, Sponsors and Champions for making this event possible and impactful.
WCS 2025 generated an overwhelming wave of gratitude, energy, and purpose from its attendees. Each session, every meeting, and every panel was crafted to elevate the funding readiness of women entrepreneurs and expose capital providers to investable, scalable, high-performing ventures.

Action for Impact Summit 2025
2025-09-15 - 2025-09-19 | Virtual
WBC Action for Impact Summit
on LinkedIn
This was a weeklong virtual experience celebrating innovation, leadership, and equity in business. From September 15–19, 2025, we brought together trailblazing business leaders, changemakers, and innovators from across industries to spotlight the top business trends shaping the future for women in leadership. We are pleased to be able to share those sessions with you here to watch at your convenience.

View the Program

New! Impact Talks on Spotify
The insights from WBC’s Action for Impact annual summit are now available, weekly!

Listen on Spotify

Summit Themes, Agenda & Session Recordings

12:00 PM | Impact and Action: Workforce in 2025A4I Kick-Off with Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
12:02 PM | Leading Companies and Workplaces in 2025

Moderator: David Chun, Founder and CEO, Equilar
Cheryl Rosario, Head of DEI and CSR, Munich Re
Khalil Smith, Vice President, Inclusion, Diversity, and Engagement, Akamai Technologies

12:22 PM | Building the Workplace of the Future

Moderator: Dr. Rohini Anand, DEI Advisor, Author, Board Member, & Esteemed Speaker
Subha Barry, President, Seramount
Nadine Bullock-Pottinga, Senior Advisor, Paradigm for Parity
Jennifer McCollum, President and CEO, Catalyst

12:42 PM | Impact Talk: Leveraging Technology and Community to Address Disparities in Care

Interviewer: Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
Dr. J. Nwando Olayiwola, President Advocate National Center for Clinical & Community Impact & Senior Vice President Advocate Health; Professor, Wake Forest School of Medicine

12:52 PM | Corporate Responsibility in Crisis: How Businesses Lead Disaster Response

Moderator: Cid Wilson, President & Chief Executive Officer, HACR
Balaji Ganapathy, Sustainability Advisor, WBC Board Director
Claude Zukowski, Senior Director, Community Impact, Procter & Gamble

1:12 PM | Leading Today’s Workforce: From Governance to Operations

Moderator: Laine Gandy, Director, Adecco Group US Foundation
Kendra Cato, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Advance Partners
Molly Day, Chief Operating Officer, Moms First
Megan Shattuck, Vice Chair and Global Managing Partner, Corporate Business, DSG Global

12:00 PM | Impact and Action: Innovation and Technology in 2025Introduction with Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
12:02 PM | Building the New Operating Environment

Moderator: Kevin Cirilli, Founder and President, Meet the Future
Eries Mentzer, Colonel USAF (Ret.) Principal, The Freedom to Serve Solutions
Mary O’Brien, Lt Gen USAF (Ret.), CEO, Mary O’Brien Strategies LLC

12:15 PM | Women Leading in Technology

Moderator: Kurt Merriweather, Co-Founder and VP of Marketing, The Diversity Movement
Christine Bongard, President, The WIT Network
Rashmi Chaturvedi, Co-Founder and President, Kaygen, Inc.
Joyce Hunter, Executive Director for Collaboration & Education, Mission Critical
Melissa Moreno, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Lindsay Corporation

12:35 PM | From Startup to Scale: Funding and Exiting Women-Led Tech Ventures

Erika Baez-Grimes, Certified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group
Theresa Harrison, Managing Partner, George Street Services; Founder, Misinformant

12:50 PM | Demystifying AI: Practical Applications for Business Growth

Moderator: Rona Bunn, Chief Information Officer, NACD
Soribel Feliz, AI Governance Policy Advisor, US Dept. of Homeland Security
Alicia Lyttle, Founder and CEO, AI Innovision

1:10 PM | Risk and Response: How Companies Are Protecting Our Future

Moderator: Johanna Jones, President & CEO, ITSMF
Mary Chaney, Chairwoman, CEO and President, Minorities in Cybersecurity Inc.
Tara Giunta, Board Vice Chair, Invest Ahead; ESG and Sustainable Finance Lawyer; WBC Board Director
Alexandra Whittington, Futurist, Tata Consultancy Services
Meredith Wilson, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Emergent Risk International LLC

12:00 PM | WBC Legacy Award – Edie Fraser

Interviewer: India Gary Martin, Founder and CEO Leadership for Execs & Relucent Learning; WBC Board Chair
Edie Fraser, Honorary Chair and Founder, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)

12:10 PM | Women Business Owners Fueling the Economy

Moderator: Enid Doggett, CEO, INSPR Media
Angela Dingle, CEO, WIPP
Myla Skinner, CEO, C200
Laura Taylor, Sr. VP, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement, WBENC

12:30 PM | Scaling with Support: Women Entrepreneurs and Public Funding Opportunities

Moderator: Mignon Clyburn, Principal, MLC Strategies
Sima Ladjevardian, President, Women’s Entrepreneurship Institute
Nicole Venable, Senior Vice President, Invariant

12:45 PM | Entrepreneurs of Purpose – Entrepreneurs, Driving Big Change

Moderator: Edie Fraser, Honorary Chair and Founder, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)
Brittany N. Cole, CEO, Career Thrivers
Kathie Okun, President, Okun Financial Group
Ciemone Sheppard, CEO, Ciemone Inc.
Judi Sheppard Missett, Founder and Executive Chair, Jazzercise
Sue Watkins, President and CEO, Telecom Transport Services

1:05 PM | Fashion Forward: Equity and Innovation Fueling Sustainable Impact

Interviewer: Lynda Erkiletian, President, T•H•E Artist Agency
Felita Harris, Co-Founder and Executive Director, RAISEfashion

1:15 PM | Supplier Opportunity in Action: Building Partnerships with Entrepreneurs

Moderator: Sharon Reynolds, CEO and Founder, DevMar Manufacturing; WBC Board Director
Dr. Barbara Brown, Founder and CEO, CapitolHill Consortium for Counseling & Consultation (CCCC)
Sharina Perry, Founder, Utopia Plastix
Dr. Felicia Phillips, CEO, Heartland Solutions
Diedre Windsor, CEO, Windsor Group LLC

12:00 PM | Impact and Action: Access to Capital in 2025Introduction with Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
12:02 PM | Investing in the Future: Women as Catalysts for Scalable Change Fireside Chat

Interviewer: La Keisha Landrum Pierre, General Partner and Co-Founder, Emmeline Ventures
Erin Harkless Moore, Vice President and Managing Director, Investments, Pivotal Ventures

12:17 PM | Advancing Capital to Secure the Future of Business

Moderator: Jen Earle, CEO, National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
Melissa Bradley, Co-Founder, New Majority Ventures
Joy Fairbanks, Managing Principal, Fairbanks Venture Advisors

12:37 PM | The Future Is Funded: Working #FasterTogether

Interviewer: Victoria Pettibone, CIO and Managing Director, Astia
Jesse Draper, Founding Partner, Halogen Ventures

1:00 PM | Meeting Market Demand

Moderator: Peter Abrahams, Director – New Business, Associates International
Marianne Markowitz, President and CEO, First Women’s Bank
Josephine Moran, President and CEO, Ledyard Bank

1:15 PM | Women Leading Markets: Early Stage Capital

Interviewer: Kelly Ann Winget, Founder and CEO, Alternative Wealth Partners
Joley Michaelson, Founder and CEO, The Sun Company

12:00 PM | Impact and Action: 2025 In the Arena
Introduction with Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
12:05 PM | Impact Talk: Women in Sports Leadership

Lois Cook, CEO, FootballHer; Vice President, WFA D.C. Divas
Rich Daniel, Owner and Team President, WFA D.C. Divas

12:15 PM | Game Changers: Advancing Equity in the Business of Sports

Moderator: Thayer Lavielle, Managing Director – The Collective, Wasserman
Peter Giorgio, Global and US Sports Practice Lead, Deloitte
Danette Leighton, CEO, Women’s Sports Foundation
Dr. DeRetta Rhodes, Executive Vice President & Chief Culture Officer, Atlanta Braves; WBC Board Director
Nancy K. Stewart, VP, People & Culture, San Diego Wave Fútbol Club

12:35 PM | Title IX Beyond Compliance: Bridging Sports Equity and Business Leadership

Sarah Axelson, Vice President – Advocacy, Women’s Sports Foundation
Hon. Cheri Bustos, Partner and Co-Chair; Mercury Public Affairs; Former US Representative, IL-17
Hon. Charles T. (Tom) McMillen, Partner, Moran Global Strategies; Former US Representative, MD-4

12:50 PM | Coaching Beyond the Game: Building the Next Generation of Leaders

Moderator: Beth Twomey, Chief Operating Officer, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation
Paul Caccamo, Founder and CEO, Coach Across America
Sandi James, Head Coach, Flag Football, Mount St. Mary’s University; Player, WFA D.C. Divas
Katie Ritchie, Club Liaison, San Diego Wave FC; Girls Coaching Director, SD Force FC; Former Professional Soccer Player
Kelsey Trainor, Consultant, Athena Global Advisors

1:10 PM | Here Comes the Boom: Investing in Women’s Sports

Moderator: Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative
Monika Mantilla, Co-Founder, Altura Capital
Anne Sempowski Ward, Chairwoman of the Board, SPS Commerce, Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Curio Brands, and The Lip Bar; Minority Owner, WNBA Chicago Sky and USL Super League Fort Lauderdale United FC

Thank you to our Sponsors!
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Relive A4I 2024

Supporting Women Veterans in Career Transition
2025-11-18 11:30 - 12:15 (America/New_York)
Days Hours Minutes
Supporting Women Veterans in Career Transition
November 18, 2025 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM ET
Virtual Webinar

Zoom Webinar Registration

Every year, thousands of women transition out of military service, bringing with them a wealth of leadership experience, discipline, and mission-driven focus. Despite these strengths, many face challenges in translating military experience into the civilian workforce, navigating career options, and building networks.
Women veterans, in particular, often lack tailored resources that address both gender and service-related transition hurdles. Join Women Business Collaborative (WBC) for an insightful panel discussion on Supporting Women Veterans in Career Transition.
Discover how to bridge the gap between military leadership and civilian roles, reframe accomplishments for the business world, and leverage mentorship for accelerated career growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower successful transitions and connect with a community dedicated to equal position, pay and power for all women in business.
Agenda

November 18, 2025

11:30 AM | Webinar Begins, Welcome & Moderator Introduction

Gwen K. Young, CEO, Women Business Collaborative

11:35 AM | Panel Introduction & Discussion

Nancy Lacore, Former Vice Admiral at the United States Navy Reserve
Eries Mentzer, Retired Colonel in the United States Air Force and Principal, Freedom to Serve Solutions
Mary O’Brien, Retired Lieutenant General, United States Air Force and CEO, Mary O’Brien Strategies
Dr. Linda Singh, Retired Major General, Maryland National Guard and CEO and President, Kaleidoscope Effect
Candice E. Frost (Moderator), Retired Army Colonel and Senior Director of the Cyber Warfare Command, Parsons Corporation

12:00 pm: Audience Q&A

12:15 pm: Webinar Concludes
The Speakers
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