Fall Days Are Here
Fall is in the air and with it comes a quickening of pace. Back to work, back to school; vacation season and the laid back attitude of summer is over.
One of the things that attracted me to NAWBO-OC four years ago was the energy at the meetings. This vitality continues to attract members and corporate partners to our community. At the September meeting I was part of a conversation with representatives from Corporate Partner Knobbe Martens, Lori Lee Yamato and Michelle Armond, who enthusiastically asked my guest Catherine Connolly from American Airlines, if American Airlines was a CP and if not, why not! CP Farmers and Merchants’ Christine Walker was overheard saying to guests that F&M has been involved with NAWBO for eight years and they know first-hand what a terrific organization NAWBO is. Also at the September meeting were, Maria Serret from Southern California Edison, Christine Dwight from Pouch Records, Denise Konte from Konte Media, Dora Lanza from Plethora Businesses and Michelle Beauchamp from Time Warner. All are Corporate Partners and are enthusiastic supporters of NAWBO-OC.
We do a lot of cross-pollinating at NAWBO-OC in many ways. The enthusiasm of our CPs is contagious and experienced by our members and guests. The passion of our members is reinforcing to our CPs. Individually and organizationally, we have a stake in each other’s success. One of our goals this year is to spread the word about NAWBO-OC so that it no longer is the best-kept secret in Orange County.
NAWBO-OC’s President, Dr. Maureen Rhyne with Keynote Speaker, Diana Jennings, Brand You Image
Diana Jennings gave us much to think about at the September dinner meeting. Speaking about the laid back attitude of summer being over, Diana gave great information about the history of casual dress being introduced into the workplace and the long-term impact that was not really anticipated. Click here for a summary of Diana’s presentation.
Karen Christensen and Ralph Alva with Transworld Business Advisor
NAWBO-OC was well represented at The National Women’s Business Conference 2011, which took place in San Diego on August 31 and September 1. Four board members and many of our members, including several new members, joined more than 500 participants from all over the US and beyond. The energy, enthusiasm, support and resources focused on women business owners were impressive. I highly recommend your attending one in the future. What a great way to get involved, network and catch the spirit of success.
We are especially proud of two of our members Shaila Mistry and Laura Neubauer, who were among 9 nominees for the first time ever award of NAWBO-CA Women Business Owner of the Year 2011. It was a very stiff competition among strong contenders. Laura Neubaurer was selected the winner and was announced at the national conference. Congratulations Laura!
This year’s theme is: Community, Connections, Competitive Edge: Join, Engage and Use the Opportunity. Please visit our website to see all the opportunities coming up including Professional Development Classes, Members Only Mixers, New Member Orientation and upcoming dinner meetings.
I look forward to seeing you all the Remarkable Women Awards Dinner on October 4th at the Grove of Anaheim click here to more information about the event and this year’s honorees.
Maureen Rhyne, Ph.D.
President, NAWBO-OC