Prince William, VA – Several years ago, Prince William Chamber of Commerce Chief Operating Officer Debbie Jones met with a handful of members to explore development of a women’s leadership conference. She suspected they were on to something big. Now, with that conference evolved into a year-long Women’s Leadership Series which culminates in a day-long conference, she knows it for sure.
“There was this unmet need in the community,” said Jones. “You have all these successful, educated women who had to drive to Washington or Tyson’s corner if they wanted to address challenges unique to female leaders and network. It just didn’t exist in greater Prince William.”
Given that the area has consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing communities in the nation, both in terms of income levels and population, Jones said, “It was time for us to come into our own. The best part is, this was developed by the women of Prince William. The Women’s Leadership Series is tailored to their specific needs.”
“I jumped at the chance to be involved,” said Rebecca Vaughan-King, President of Imagine. Her company developed the logo and marketing materials for the inaugural conference, and she participated in the planning committee.
She and other committee members are now busy preparing for the third annual Prince William Women’s Leadership Conference, taking place on Nov. 19, 10:00 am to 3:30 pm, at Harbour View Events at 13200 Marina Way, Woodbridge. This is a new venue for the conference, which has previously been held at the Continental Event Center in Manassas.
“We are always very conscientious that Prince William covers a lot of ground, and seek to make our events convenient to all members,” said Jones. “For that reason, the committee decided we should rotate to other locations. We look forward bringing the conference to Woodbridge this year.”
She said that the Chamber also looks forward to welcoming back several sponsors that have supported the event since its inception, such as QMT Windchimes and MTCI-Management & Training Consultants, Inc.
“I bring my teen daughter and even sponsored the attendance of the Osbourn Park High School FBLA group,” said Patty Baisden, Vice President of QMT Windchimes. “It is so important that we provide young women with the confidence to grow as leaders. I am proud to be able to play a role in doing that through the Women’s Leadership Conference.”
DuvallWheeler, LLP is the main conference sponsor this year. “This conference allows us to support the professional development of female leaders. It is fulfilling to be a part of something that has such a positive impact within our community,” said Regina Jessop of DuvallWheeler.
A full day of workshops, networking and exhibits are planned for the conference, with Becky Blalock, managing partner at Advisory Capital and author of “DARE,” giving the keynote presentation. Her book draws on the experience of Blalock and 28 other women who broke through the glass ceiling to achieve professional success.
The full 2013 Women’s Ledership Conference agenda, along with registration information, can be found online in the events section of pwchamber.org. Media Partners for the event are Prince William Living, Prince William Times and Washington Business Journal.
