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Donna Fernandes keynote speaker at ABWA WNY spring event at Conference & Event Center Niagara Falls

by jmaloni

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Thu, Apr 10th 2014 03:15 pm

The American Business Women's Association Western New York Charter Chapter has announced Dr. Donna Fernandes, president and CEO of the Buffalo Zoo, will be the keynote speaker at ABWA WNY's spring networking and professional development event. "Shine: Empower, Connect, Achieve" will take place Thursday, May 1, at The Conference & Event Center Niagara Falls, 101 Old Falls St. It is sponsored by Mass Mutual Financial Group and Buffalo Magazine and will feature a professional development segment (the keynote message), a networking happy hour and an interactive vendor fair.

During her keynote, Fernandes will share her own story of personal and professional growth. She was recently named one of Western New York's most influential leaders of 2014 by Business First.

"We are so excited to have Donna as our speaker for the evening. Not only is she a pillar of our community, but amongst women, she is someone we admire and can connect with both on a personal and professional level," said Jennifer Surdyke, ABWA WNY president, and account manager at Benefit Brokers of Western New York. "ABWA WNY is always striving to empower women through education; introducing them to established, successful mentors by means of our professional development seminars. Our goal for the event is to allow women to network and connect with one another and build relationships. We are also excited to host our interactive vendor fair, recognizing many incredible local businesses."

Fernandes joined the Buffalo Zoo in 2000. Since her arrival, the venue has completed a master plan and raised $48 million in capital funds for a revitalized Buffalo Zoo. Her most current project at the zoo is the 60,000-square-foot Arctic Edge, which will be home to polar bear cubs Luna and Kali.

Tickets for "Shine: Empower, Connect, Achieve" are $25 until April 30, and $30 at the door the day of the event. To register, visit http://www.abwawny.com/events/shine-empower-connect-achieve/.

ABWA Western New York Charter Chapter's mission is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition. Visit www.abwawny.com for more information.

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