Successful women leaders to share stories at conference on April 2

Press release:

The Women’s Forum of NC is hosting a conference on April 2 to encourage Western North Carolina women to pursue elected or appointed public offices. Presentations will explore how women can become leaders and improve the quality of life in their communities and the state.

 

Mayor Esther Manheimer of Asheville, Mayor Barbara Volk of Hendersonville, and Senator Terry Van Duyn will share their journeys as successful elected officials. Jo Anne Sanford will talk about appointment to the NC Utilities Commission and her challenges as the chair of this important board. Carol Teal, Executive Director of Lillian’s List, will tell how the 501(c)(4) arm of the organization provides training and support for women seeking to run for political offices.

The conference will be held at the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain on April 2 from 9:30 AM until 1:30 PM. The registration fee is $25, including a continental breakfast and lunch. Register by March 21 by sending a $25 check to WFNC, PO Box 41368, Raleigh, NC 27629.

 

Over the past 15 years, the Women’s Forum has studied the gender composition of North Carolina “power boards” – a group of exceptionally influential state boards whose members are appointed by the governor and the General Assembly, such as the State Board of Education and the Utilities Commission. In 1999, the percentage of women serving on those boards was 20 percent. At the conference Pat Orrange, Vice President of the Forum, will release the most recent statistics.

 

The WOMEN’S FORUM OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC., formed in1976, is a non-partisan, statewide membership organization committed to improving the status of women by attaining equal opportunities in all areas of life. Formed in 1976, the Women’s Forum encourages women to speak out and take action on public policy issues. Visit www.womensforumnc.org.

 

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