WNY Women's Foundation to host 2nd annual women's leadership summit

Signature event will educate and engage future leaders, provide networking opportunities with influential women in WNY

The WNY Women’s Foundation invites local women of all professional backgrounds to participate in the 2024 Women’s Leadership Summit at the University at Buffalo’s Alumni Arena on May 31. Aspiring leaders, emerging and entrepreneurial leaders can participate in workshops and interactive panel discussions, while connecting with Buffalo’s most influential women leaders. 

“We welcomed nearly 400 women to our leadership summit last year,” said Sheri Scavone, CEO of the WNY Women’s Foundation. “We’re looking forward to another successful event that brings our young, aspiring and emerging leaders together with some of the region’s most influential and inspiring women.” 

The event is sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY, in partnership with UB Athletics and the UB Alumni Association. Arlene Kaukus, director of alumni and industry engagement at UB, and Carmen Snell, vice president, deputy general counsel for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY, are co-chairing the event. 

Participants can select one of the following tracts to tailor their experience to wherever they are in their leadership journey. 

√ Aspiring Leader: Those new to the workforce, zero to five years into a career

√ Emerging Leader: Those who are six-plus years into a career

√ Entrepreneurial: Women entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses

All attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a speed networking session designed to connect ambitious professionals with more than 50 experienced women leaders. The session will offer an unparalleled opportunity to build meaningful connections, seek guidance, and glean insights from accomplished women who have made significant strides in their respective fields.

The focus of the summit’s panel discussions will be on effective communication, emotional intelligence and self awareness, knowing your worth and negotiating your salary, and intergenerational leadership.

“Whether you’re seeking career advice, exploring new opportunities, or simply eager to practice your networking skills, this event is the perfect platform to unlock your full potential and accelerate your professional growth,” Scavone said.

For the past 25 years, the WNY Women’s Foundation (WNYWF) has been transforming systems, culture and policy to create opportunities for each woman to thrive. Learn more at www.wnywomensfoundation.org.