Spring has sprung and we are so excited! March brings many new successes and opportunities for our chapter, allowing us to grow and branch out in many new directions while staying rooted in our mission to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power.

Earlier this month, I celebrated my birthday at the Kendra Scott jewelry store in Santana Row. It was a fun way to celebrate with members, friends, and new acquaintances. In return, Kendra Scott donated 20% of their proceeds made during my 3-hour party. The almost $900 donation helps us continue to develop and grow our member programs.

We had a successful connection with our local contact at Yelp, helping to promote their National Women’s History event. Now, we are looking forward to helping our members understand the use of Yelp and how it can boost their business. More details to follow later.

Santa Clara University is launching its first-ever Women’s Corporate Board Readiness Program starting on May 2nd, inspired by the passage of SB 826. We’re proud that one of our longtime NAWBO members and author of the “Board Game”, Betsy Berkhemer-Credaire, will be one of the instructors and mentors. Please check out www.scu.edu to see if you’re interested or if you know someone who’s ready to take this next step in her career.

In keeping with National Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, we had an exceptional group of panel members and moderator share their organizations’ tools and partnerships that support international connections, best practices for doing business that crosses borders, and how to engage with international opportunities. We appreciate Maureen Broderick of WorldWideWomen, Margarise Correa of BayBrazil, Kathey Winkelman of Gioia Company and Shannon Fraser of U.S. Commercial Service for taking the time to share their knowledge and expertise.

Personally, NAWBO has given me the confidence and connections to pursue my passion in helping children who need mental health and foster care services. In partnering with Rebekah Children’s Services (RCS), I will launch their first-ever onsite children’s birthday celebrations. Please feel free to join us for this free event on March 27th at the Capital Club starting at 5:30 p.m.

On April 23rd, we will host our 3rd annual Crystal Chair Awards gala event at the Doubletree in Campbell. We will honor and celebrate Hannah Kain of ALOM, Monika Miles of Miles Consulting, and Cathy Smith of ELREPCO, Inc. Please reach out to Maxine Goulding, our event planner extraordinaire, to help prepare for this extraordinary event. Maxine can be reached at events@caspecialoccasions.com.

 

I hope you enjoy this spring season with an abundance of growth and opportunities, as we look forward to our continued efforts in building our NAWBO chapter together as One Voice!