Led by Shawna Vercher, CEO of
VTi Web, the
Society of Successful Women has a goal to connect, mentor, raise awareness and support women.
The idea was born as Vercher was working on the campaign trail for Barack Obama, where she connected with many dynamic, successful businesswomen. She soon recognized a common thread: Most desired to mentor and assist others, yet when faced with their own challenges, they seldom sought assistance. Vercher decided to create a place where successful women could feel comfortable getting advice for their business goals while mentoring others.
The result? In January 2009, the Society held its inaugural Successful Women's Super Bowl Luncheon. Special guests included keynote speaker, Sheila Johnson, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, along with Gayle Sierens, news anchor for Channel 8. Anticipating only 35 women, the event attracted more than 150 attendees and raised $20,000 for the NFL YET centers.
Vercher has since established an advisory board of business leaders and established SSW headquarters in Tampa, where SSW employs five people and expects to hire 30-45 people over the next year and half. In 2010, SSW plans to launch an online publication as well as produce a television show for national broadcast.
The Society will host the
Sapphire Mixer this evening, Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Peak10 Tampa, 9411 Corporate Lake Drive. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn how to get involved, showcase their businesses and be featured in the upcoming magazine and show. Cost is $20 with proceeds to benefit the Society of Successful Women.
Nancy Vaughn, a Tampa-based writer, enjoys meeting new talent and discovering (and inspiring) new ideas. Comments? Contact 83 Degrees.
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