8:00

Registration / Breakfast

8:30

Opening Ceremony

Gina Barreca, Panelist

Gina Barreca may be a professor of English and Women’s Studies at the University of Connecticut, but she’s hardly a tedious academic type.

Gina is a popular comedienne who’s been hailed as "smart and funny" and a "brilliant and provocative whirlwind." She is a well-known author who has published best-selling books such as Babes in Boyland: A Personal History of Co-education in the Ivy League and I'm With Stupid.

Gina has appeared on dozens of radio and television programs including Oprah, 20/20, 48 Hours, and The Today Show. She lectures world-wide on the subject of gender and humor.

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Janet Peckinpaugh, Emcee and Panelist

As a 30-year veteran of television and radio news, Janet Peckinpaugh has been a well-known journalist in Connecticut for many years.

Janet was most recently news anchor for WVIT television and has also reported and anchored for the ABC and CBS affiliates in Connecticut. Now retired from television news, she operates Peckinpaugh Digital Media, a full service multimedia company.
She also offers her services as a spokesperson, corporate media producer and diversity trainer.

An award-winning journalist, she is passionate about learning and reporting the truth and is respected for her keen insight, instinctive approaches and fair and accurate reporting.

Janet is currently producing a pilot television program called 180 degrees with Janet Peckinpaugh.

Karen Rossi, Renowned Metal Sculptor, Panelist

Karen Rossi began her fine art career in 1987 by winning many public sculpture commissions that she created in the welding shop of her family's specialty welding business. 

Born in New England, Karen believes her fascination with "Yankee yarns" and early New England folk art inspired her narrative and whimsical designs. Highly regarded for her original metal sculptures, she also licenses her whimsical characters of hobbies and professions. 

Karen's designs are internationally collected and dramatic 6-foot to 30-foot versions have found their way into the entry halls of banks, restaurants, hospitals and shopping malls.

For more information, please visit www.karenrossi.com.

Renee Sherman, Vice President for Ameriprise Financial, Panelist

Renee Sherman joined Ameriprise Financial in 1994 as a Financial Advisor. Ameriprise Financial is America’s largest financial planning company and has been helping clients plan for retirement for over 110 years.

Renee quickly distinguished herself as a professional by earning the professional designations of Master Advisor, Senior Financial Advisor and Platinum Advisor status.

Renee was promoted to Field Vice President in 2004 for the Northeast Market Group. As Field Vice President, she coaches and manages a team that provides supports to over 500 licensed financial professionals in 5 states.

Renee is a talented speaker and is often tapped to speak at professional events all over the United States on topics related to professional development.

Renee is a Certified Financial Planner and a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and graduated from Fisher College. Renee resides in Bolton, Connecticut with her husband and two children.

Laurie Rosner, Senior Vice President for Rockville Bank, Panelist

As senior vice president of marketing and administrative services officer at Rockville Bank, Laurie is a recognized leader, entrepreneur, brand director and speaker. She is well known for developing, implementing and building long-term innovative strategies. Laurie has won numerous marketing awards on branding and innovation and is a frequent guest speaker on these and other related topics. She also is a licensed private pilot.

L. Kay Wilson, Moderator

Kay Wilson is an attorney, coach and motivational speaker who has distinguished herself through her work as a coach to attorneys and executive women.

Known for her humor, wit and clarity as a speaker, Kay inspires others to take action and reach their potential.  As a motivational speaker, she has been featured at career conferences and private events all over New England and is a member of the prestigious National Speakers’ Association.

While coaching women prisoners in Connecticut, Kay developed her signature program, Motivation & Self Mastery.

Download Panel Packet.doc

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9:45

10:15

Networking, Visit Exhibitors

Session 1 (Choose 1 Seminar to attend)

Soul Proprietor: Lessons from a Lifestyle Entrepreneur

Jane Pollak, Presenter

If you’ve recently started your own business, or are thinking about it, this is the presentation for you. Longtime business owner Jane Pollak will teach key business concepts and will illustrate the universality of business experience through her own successful tale as artist, author, coach and professional speaker.

In this presentation, you’ll get to hear about the enthusiasm, drive and persistence it takes to thrive in your own small business.

Jane Pollak is an internationally known entrepreneur, professional speaker and author. She speaks to audiences about entrepreneurial topics and coaches creative professionals on how to turn their passion into a profitable business. She’s been featured in the national media and is the author of Soul Proprietor: 101 Lessons from a Lifestyle Entrepreneur. The Small Business Administration named her the Home-Based Business Advocate for New England in 2002.

Natural Effective Approaches to Health; Stop Feeling … Sick and Tired of Feeling Sick and Tired
Dr. Sharon Norling, Presenter

Like many women, you may be wondering about the underlying causes of your chronic symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, joint pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression or indigestion. Are you physically exhausted and emotionally spent? Could this be from adrenal fatigue, a hidden food allergy, toxins or a neurotransmitter imbalance? Rather than treating the tip of the iceberg, finding the underlying cause and using natural effective approaches can set you on a path to optimal health

Dr. Norling will present the latest information and research on how to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight naturally.

Dr. Sharon Norling is a nationally recognized leader in natural approaches to health and healing. Founder of the Mind Body Spirit Center in California, she is the only physician in the U.S. known to be nationally board-certified in integrative/holistic medicine, OB/GYN, and medical acupuncture. She is trained in Functional Medicine and certified in biofeedback. She is a highly sought-after national speaker and educator. Dr. Norling taught at the University of Minnesota Medical School and testified at the White House Commission on Complementary Alternative Medicine.

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Make an Impact, Not Just a Living!

Women and Finance—On the Doorsteps of Change

Pat Brzozowski, Presenter

Come gain valuable insight about the financial experience and behaviors among women. Learn about the entrepreneurial opportunities available in the Financial Services industry.

As diversity director, women’s recruiting strategy, for Prudential Financial, Pat is responsible for partnering with the different areas
of the company to support its strategy of recruiting and retaining women. Pat’s responsibilities are an integral part of promoting the company’s image in local communities and positioning regional executives within the local market. Pat has been with Prudential since 1989.

Change Your Life In 17 Minutes! Cure Paper, Email and Time Overload, To Create the Life You Choose

Dr. Doreen Stern, Presenter

Plaqued by paper piles? Tormented by email? Stressed by racing to get places and meet deadlines?

You CAN break free from your desk debris.

In a fun, interactive session, you will identify your true desires.  Then set an attainable 90-day goal and learn how to take tiny steps, so that you effortlessly achieve the results you want. Also learn the secret to overcoming paper, email and time overload, to propel yourself forward. You will leave with a renewed sense of purpose and control.

Dr. Doreen Stern is president of The Desk Docktor, LLC, and is a speaker, writer and organizational coach to individuals and businesses. She holds a Ph.D. and two master’s degrees, and her successful, award-winning career spans business, higher education and social services. Dr. Stern has been profiled frequently in the media and is a sought-after speaker throughout Connecticut.

11:00

12:00

Networking, Visit Exhibitors

Luncheon / Keynote by Marcia Wieder

Known as America’s Dream Coach, Marcia Wieder is noted for giving inspirational talks to prominent companies such as AT&T, The Gap and American Express. She is the renowned author of several books, including: The best-selling Making Your Dreams Come True, Life is but a Dream: Wise Techniques for an Inspirational Journey, and Doing Less and Having More: Five Easy Steps for Achieving Your Dreams.

Marcia is former president of the National Association of Women Business Owners, and she now inspires thousands of people through her workshops around the country.

The founder of Dream Coach University, Marcia has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey show, on The Today Show, and on PBS in her own national show, Making Your Dreams Come True.

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Marcia will present:

Create Your Dream Life: On Your Way in Just One Day

She’s discussed it in front of millions of viewers on Oprah, and based her best-selling book, Making Your Dreams Come True, on it. Uncover the secrets to Marcia’s no-nonsense approach for finally getting what you want out of life. Whether your dream is personal or professional, Marcia’s proven technology will teach you serious steps and shortcuts for immediate action and rapid success. In addition, you’ll learn how to breakthrough barriers and remove limiting beliefs. New doors will open as you apply Marcia’s proven and concrete formula to attain your dreams, increase confidence and stop dream stealers. There’s no holding you and your team back.

1:30

2:00

Networking, Visit Exhibitors

Session 2 (Choose 1 Seminar to attend)

Women, Power and Influence: Personal Leadership Essentials for Savvy Women
L. Kay Wilson, Presenter

Have you ever felt like your idea wasn’t heard until the next baritone restated it? Ever felt you didn’t get the raise you deserved or that you aren’t as far ahead in your career as you should be? Many confident women have struggled with issues like these, revealing that there is a confidence gap, not a competence gap, between men and women.

In her presentation, Attorney Kay Wilson will address these issues by teaching you:

• How to have an effective voice in any meeting, with the baritone baggage.
• How to negotiate your way to a higher income.
• How to master the sale, the deal or the exchange.

Kay Wilson is an attorney, coach and motivational speaker who has distinguished herself through her work as a coach to attorneys and executive women.

Known for her humor, wit and clarity as a speaker, Kay inspires others to take action and reach their potential. As a motivational speaker, she has been featured at career conferences and private events all over New England and is a member of the prestigious National Speakers’ Association.

While coaching women prisoners in Connecticut, Kay developed her signature program, Motivation & Self Mastery.

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Healing the Space Around You: Designing the Life You Want
Lin Huntting Congdon, Presenter

Most of us know that our home and workplace can reflect our personality, but have you ever wondered how these environments actually affect you? It’s often surprising to learn that the spaces we occupy can actually block rather than support what we desire.

In this session, Lin Huntting Congdon will teach you how to make positive changes in your outer spaces and inner self through Feng Shui, the ancient art of placement.

Lin Huntting Congdon is a feng shui expert who graduated from the Power Feng Shui Academy of Santa Fe, New Mexico. She now practices in the Hartford, Connecticut area. Lin has been a practitioner of the healing arts for more than 25 years, and brings an insightful approach to empowering change for her clients through their home and work environments.

Women Rock! 5 Steps on the Path to Financial Security
Megan Maruzo, Presenter

In this seminar, women learn to assess their current financial
situation and focus on bringing stability to their finances. You
may be clear about your financial goals, but uncertain about
steps necessary to achieve them. Let us help you get there!

Megan is a financial services expert who began her career with Prudential in 1998 after 14 years with a utility company. She is licensed in life and health, investments, and property and casualty, and she works with clients to develop financial strategies to help them grow and protect their wealth. Megan received her BA in Economics and MBA from the University of Connecticut.

Making Your Closet a Good Investment
Jayne Amodio, Presenter

A closet full of clothes and nothing to wear? It doesn’t have to be that way.

Image consultant Jayne Amodio will show you how to evaluate and balance your lifestyle and wardrobe needs. You’ll learn to identify why some purchases are or aren’t good wardrobe investments for you, and understand how to plan for wardrobe additions that enhance and expand your outfit capabilities.

Jayne Amodio is president of Personal Best Image, an image consulting firm that helps clients enhance their unique qualities through wardrobe, style and general appearance. A graduate of Simmons College and Babson Graduate School of Business, Jayne has also studied with image institutes in New York, London and Australia. She is a member of the Association of Image Consultants International.

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2:45

3:15

Networking, Visit Exhibitors

Session 3 (Choose 1 Seminar to attend)

How to Ask for What You Want (and Get It!)
Lori Rittman Clark, Presenter

Here are two key facts. #1: Statistics show that men negotiate about four times as often as women. #2: Failing to negotiate can be a significant hurdle to getting what you really want.

In this session, Attorney Lori Rittman Clark will help you identify opportunities for negotiation and teach survival skills for effective negotiation. You’ll find your own negotiation style, develop the ability to negotiate for yourself forcefully and learn how to say no.

Lori Rittman is an attorney in the Employment Practice Group of Tyler Cooper. She is a litigator and specialist on a wide variety of employment-related issues and is a frequent lecturer on employment law topics, including effective human resource policies, hiring and firing practices, leave laws, and wage and hour issues. She regularly gives seminars on a variety of topics such as successful negotiation.

Great Presenters and Presentations:

Fact vs. Fiction
Debbie Fay, Presenter

What makes for a great presenter or presentation? It isn’t necessarily the standard humor approach or the big deck of PowerPoint slides packed full of information.

Public speaking coach Debbie Fay will illuminate the realities and debunk the myths about what makes great presenters and presentations and will offer some solid, easy-to-use tools to help you become a speaker who gets heard and gets results.

Debbie Fay is founder of bespeak presentation solutions. She is a public speaking coach who has helped hundreds of people make presentations with confidence, conviction and clarity. She helps individuals and businesses develop and deliver presentations that get heard and get results.

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Protect Your Relationship
Diane Prestileo, Presenter

It’s important to protect what means the most to us, and usually what is most important to us is our relationships. The Protect Your Relationship workshop will share several strategies from Fortune 500 companies that you can incorporate everyday to keep your personal relationships running smoothly. In less that one hour, you will learn how to promote your important relationships from the mail room directly to the board room!
During the session a conflict resolution assessment tool is used for participants to learn their conflict style and how to best interact with others’ styles.

Diane Prestileo is the owner of Transitions & Transformations LLC, which provides coaching, counseling and training services for personal and work-related issues. Diane has more than 20 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching. Today, her practice helps individuals and couples manage transitions in their personal and work lives, and her monthly training sessions on related topics have gotten excellent reviews.

To Your Health! Use Therapeutic Essential Oils

in Your Everyday Life to Support Health and Well-Being
Michelle Markowski, Presenter

In this session, you’ll learn about therapeutic grade essential oils and how the ancient art of using them can be incorporated into your daily life to promote health and well-being.

Michelle Markowski will show you how organic oils can help boost the immune system, relieve stress, improve sleep, relieve aches and pains, and clear your home and environment. You’ll take home ideas to make natural healthy life changes that aren’t chemical-based.

Michelle Markowski was originally trained in occupational therapy and is a licensed massage therapist. She trained with Dr. Christopher Fabricius for nine years on the use of therapeutic essential oils. She also has taught classes and conducted workshops on essential oils and continues to use therapeutic essential oils as the foundation for her massage work.

4:00

Networking, Visit Exhibitors

Refreshments, Raffles, Closing Remarks

5:00

Conference Ends

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