STURBRIDGE, MA, February 7, 2019 – The upcoming Woman in Business Scholarship Fundraiser on Thursday, March 7 will not just be a night of dinner theater and auctions – four local women will be honored for their outstanding contributions to the community.
This year, WIB has chosen to honor the work and community contributions of:
Carol Porra: Carol went to her first Woman in Business meeting in January of 1994 and has been an active member ever since. She became a committee of one on the Woman in Business Book Award, later named the Woman In Business Scholarship, among other notable and valuable contributions.
Irene Garand: Irene is a Certified Financial Planner with Ameriprise Financial Services and has been a valuable and respected member of the community, integrating herself with many local organizations and committees.
Alexandra (Alix) McNitt: Alexandra McNitt has served as the Executive Director of the Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce for nearly thirteen years. Born in Southbridge and raised in Woodstock, Alix exemplifies what it means to be committed to a community.
Judy Ferguson: Judy Ferguson has been the Owner and Manager of Village Photo and Portrait Studio since August 1984. Over the years, Village Photo has created fantastic photos and lasting memories for families, individuals, special events, schools, and business organizations throughout the region and Judy has given generously to her community time and time again.
The recipients will be honored during the evening’s opening program, as recognized by Woman in Business Board Members.
Following the awards, guests will be entertained by “All in the Timing”, a dinner-theater performance by Tantasqua High School Drama Club students. Tickets are on sale now for $30 per person. Ticket cost includes a buffet dinner, sweet treats dessert assortment and performance. Guests may also buy tickets to a penny auction.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Event emcee is local entertainer Adam Webster of 98.9 Nash Icon and 100.1 The Pike.
Community members and businesses have shown generous support for the event and the scholarship foundation, with sponsorships reaching close to $2,000. bankHometown is a Producer Sponsor, while Director Sponsors include Brenda M. Bianculli, CPA; Cornerstone Bank; Harrington HealthCare System; Hometown Insurance Center, LLC; Jones & Jones Realty; Christopher Heights of Webster, Steve’s Collision Center, Inc., Your Hometown Shopper and Quinsigamond Community College.
Sponsorship levels are still available for “Producer” ($500); “Director” ($250) and “Supporter” ($100). Donations of any amount are appreciated and welcome by emailing info@wibsturbridge.org. Businesses can be recognized on many platforms, including social media, printed program booklets and on-site signage. Leading sponsors will also complimentary tickets to Woman in Business’ Scholarship Awards luncheon in June.
Woman in Business, Inc. (WIB) is a 501 (c)(3) that fosters networking, information sharing, and providing educational opportunities for local business women of all career paths.
Over the last 27 years, WIB has awarded over $40,000 in scholarships to over 100 graduating seniors and young women within its community footprint for their continuing education.
