Event to feature several authors, speakers

PROCTORVILLE — Ohio University’s Proctorville Center will present its seventh Women’s Conference on Friday, May 18. The conference, which is scheduled for 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. is designed to acknowledge, empower, support, and enrich women in the Tri-State.

A series of breakout sessions throughout the day will accompany the keynote address by Nora Stanger, author of Diamonds in the Dew: An Appalachian Experience.

Stanger, a Lawrence County native, shares her personal story of rising from poverty through the faith, hard work and determination of her mother.

Other workshops include presentations by Nicole Phillips, author of Kindness is Contagious. Phillips’ session will focus on how kindness can transform lives.

Jan Rader, an Ironton native and recently named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World, will share her experiences as the first female fire chief in West Virginia. Rader is also an alumna of the Ohio University Southern campus.

Other session topics include: All Things are Possible; Situational Awareness; Not Now-Not Ever; Yoga; and Women as Healthcare Decision Makers.

“There are many informative sessions on our conference schedule this year,” said Dr. Kristi Barnes, conference co-chair. “Everyone will find something they can learn from and leave the event enriched and empowered.”

Registration to attend the Women’s Conference is $30 and $20 for student, and includes lunch. Sponsorships keep the conference cost low, said Stephanie Burcham, conference co-chair.

“We’re fortunate to have great support from the community including Citizens Deposit Bank, Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, iHeart Media, St. Mary’s
Medical Center, Quality Care Nursing Services, Marathon, Armstrong, The Ironton Tribune and the Ohio University Alumni Association,” Burcham said.

The conference is open to both women and men. Online registration is available at Ohio.edu/wcproctorville or call 740-886-7655 for more information.