women in business council
Council Mission, Goals and Responsibilities
Mission Statement: Our purpose is to provide a platform to empower and inspire the leadership role of women in the workforce. We advance women's leadership skills and foster their business growth through networking, mentorship opportunities and educational seminars designed specifically for women.
Goals: The goal of the committee is to create a business relevant platform where professional women can gather together for networking connections, resources and business education. The Council will host networking events, services, resources and programs for women to further their career leadership goals. In addition, the Council will present an annual recognition award to a woman that supports the mission and goals of the Women in Business Council. Further, the Council will survey members to self-identify areas of expertise in which they are willing to mentor and advise others members.
Events, Programs & Services: The Council established a plan for the Women in Business Council Business After Hours as the first activity to help bring the Council to life and create positive energy on the launch of this Women in Business Council. The first event will be held on Monday, August 7th at Dynamic Perception Dance Company from 5pm to 6:30pm.
Council Funding & Activities
The Women in Business Council is self-funding as are all standing committees. Funds are generated primarily through event and program fees, donations and sponsorships. Chamber Staff provides support services for all activities and the legal platform to gather and present programs and events. Each year in October, the Council will plan and present a scope of work and schedule to the Chamber Board for review and approval so they can best manage the overall resources available to all Westmont Chamber members.
Council Interaction
The Women in Business Council will interact with local resources, area Chambers of Commerce, State of Illinois Chamber and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to plan and/or participate in Women in Business events, programs and services. There will be additional opportunities to interface with government, educational institutions and a variety of organizations that are engaged in and support Women in Business goals.
Women in Business Council Leadership & Structure
- Council Co-Chairs are Jessica Garrett and Lori Wrzesinski.
- Council participation is open to all Westmont Chamber Members (non-members are invited to attend one meeting or event as a guest).
- Council shall form “teams” to work with staff in helping plan events, programs and/or services on behalf with the approval of the Council participants.
- Council programs, services and events shall be approved by a majority vote of the Council, the Westmont Chamber Executive Board and the Westmont Chamber Board of Directors.
Council Meeting Schedule & Locations
Council meetings will be held on the third Tuesday of every other month at 1:00pm. This would total six meetings per year. The location will be at Westmont Chamber Office or at a remote location as selected by the Council that could provide Zoom access to allow members to participate remotely.
Meeting Dates: Location
August 15, 2023: Westmont Centre & Zoom
October 17, 2023:
December 19, 2023:
February 20, 2024:
April 16, 2024:
June 18, 2024:
Upcoming Events
Members
Catie Cassity, At Home With You
Michelle Clegg, People's Resource Center
Alison Clemens, Clemens Enterprises, Inc.
Jamie Cunningham, Village of Westmont
Jessica Garrett, Dynamic Perception Dance Company
Mayor Ron Gunter, Village of Westmont
Carol Kempf, CK Rose Associates
Patti Mielcarski, Village of Westmont
Joanne Rancich, Presto Real Estate Services
Becky Rheintgen, Oakwood Electric & Generator
Julianne Rizzo, Oasis Senior Advisor
Nancy Roach, Strada Real Estate Services, Inc
Janell Robinson, Hope's Front Door Walk-In Ministry
Tracey Valerio, DJ's Sports Bar & Grill
Alyssa Clemens Vegendla, Clemens Enterprises, Inc.
Gaye Wagner, Independence-4-Seniors Home Care
Lori Wrzesinski, All in Health & Life Coaching, Cuddle Above Pet Care
Larry Forssberg, Westmont Chamber of Commerce
Lea Moore, Westmont Chamber of Commerce
Catie Cassity, At Home With You
Michelle Clegg, People's Resource Center
Alison Clemens, Clemens Enterprises, Inc.
Jamie Cunningham, Village of Westmont
Jessica Garrett, Dynamic Perception Dance Company
Mayor Ron Gunter, Village of Westmont
Carol Kempf, CK Rose Associates
Patti Mielcarski, Village of Westmont
Joanne Rancich, Presto Real Estate Services
Becky Rheintgen, Oakwood Electric & Generator
Julianne Rizzo, Oasis Senior Advisor
Nancy Roach, Strada Real Estate Services, Inc
Janell Robinson, Hope's Front Door Walk-In Ministry
Tracey Valerio, DJ's Sports Bar & Grill
Alyssa Clemens Vegendla, Clemens Enterprises, Inc.
Gaye Wagner, Independence-4-Seniors Home Care
Lori Wrzesinski, All in Health & Life Coaching, Cuddle Above Pet Care
Larry Forssberg, Westmont Chamber of Commerce
Lea Moore, Westmont Chamber of Commerce
Quick Links
WCCTB Gold Members