Women Leaders Making a Difference, a free panel discussion and networking event at UConn Avery Point, on September 20, 1-4pm, features women who contribute through their professional work as well as volunteer affiliations. The afternoon promises interesting conversation with inspirational women leaders in the region sharing their stories as well as ideas for empowering one another.
These women have demonstrated their commitment to the region in so many ways and we are proud to have many of them as members of the Chamber, and we are glad for the opportunities we have had to support or promote the work they have done to enrich our community.
Two of the panelists are women who are making a difference at the Chamber. Ornet Hines, Liberty Bank Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager, sits on the Chamber’s Board of Trustees and serves as an Ambassador. She served on the executive committee of the Young Professionals of Eastern CT and has been active at their community volunteering events. She is quick to welcome new faces at our events and has been a vital contributor at the Chamber. Tricia Cunningham, Director of Community Relations at Fairview, is another active and welcoming member at many Chamber events and was selected for Leadership Eastern CT’s Class of 2021.
We have been excited to partner with Wendy Bury, Executive Director at Southeastern Connecticut Cultural Coalition, as we work together to emphasize the value of Arts and Culture venues in the region, which contribute to tourism, economic development, and quality of life. Through our partnership with Thames River Innovation Place, we have supported the work of Hannah Gant and RD86, a restaurant incubator that has demonstrated how to plant the seeds of economic development and grown small businesses. Beatrice Jennette, Founding Director of S.T.E.P.S., makes a difference in girls’ lives, and we are proud to have her organization as a member. Our thanks to Susette Tibus, Owner of Simply Majestic Jewelry, who has supported the Chamber’s Foundation through her generosity.
We are also happy to support Chamber member UConn Avery Point and their efforts to put forward this informative program. It will be a great opportunity to learn from these leaders and network with people from around the region.
The event is free to attend, but donations received support the Avery Point Women and Philanthropy Scholarship Fund. It is not surprising to see these women who give so much to the community offering their time and wisdom in support of another important cause.