Leaders in Westchester County Government are proud to be participating in the fifth annual Westchester Women’s Summit in observance of Women’s History Month. The event on March 14 in White Plains will feature:
• Westchester County Special Advisor to the County Executive Catherine Borgia
• Westchester County Director of Employee Assistance Program Lara Fenig Stangel, LMSW
• Westchester County Director of Operations Joan McDonald
• Westchester County Office of Economic Development Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Deborah Novick
• Westchester County Commissioner of Parks and Recreation Kathleen O’Connor
• Westchester County Office for Women Director Robi Schlaff
County Executive Ken Jenkins, who will give welcoming remarks at the Summit said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the outstanding female leaders who drive progress in Westchester County. Their dedication and expertise are invaluable assets to our government and our community, and highlighting their work inspires the next generation of females to lead with confidence and vision.”
This full-day event is dedicated to inspiring and empowering women in the community and will include workshops covering four key areas of women's wellness: physical and mental health, financial empowerment, family and community dynamics, and career growth.
Other event highlights include a keynote address by Juju Chang, Emmy Award-Winning Co-Anchor of ABC News' Nightline, networking opportunities to connect with like-minded women, industry leaders, and community resources, and interactive experiences at the Discovery Village like mini-massages and sound bath meditation.
Borgia said: “I am delighted to be moderating the ‘Don’t Sit Back: Advocate for What You Need’ panel with some amazing women who have changed their communities. It is critical for every woman to have the confidence and ability to advocate for what is important to them. We will have strategies for developing and delivering a compelling voice -- from your first foray into advocacy all the way to mastery!”
Fenig Stangel said: "I am excited to be a moderator for the panel 'Breaking the Silence: Advocating for Mental Health' at the 2025 Westchester County Women’s Summit. The Summit provides an incredible forum for women to gather, share experiences and learn from one another on a variety of important topics. As the Director of EAP for Westchester County, I value the opportunity to join a group of truly accomplished women to discuss the crucial topic of mental health advocacy. Together, we’ll explore ways to break the stigma, offer support, and empower others to prioritize mental well-being."
McDonald said: “It has always been my hope that ‘traditionally male-dominated industries’ will in the future be obsolete. Until that time, it is important that women leaders are forthright, decisive and fair. I have found those attributes have served me well and I have earned the respect of my peers. Our obligation is to lead the way and mentor others – women and men.”
Novick said: “I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion about preparing financially for life’s inevitable surprises. Financial literacy for women – whether in their business lives or personal lives -- has traditionally been a fuzzy area. Too often, small businesses fail when the owner experiences a crisis in their personal life or doesn’t address the financial realities. Hopefully our audience will gain a few tips and tricks they can use in the path to success.”
O’Connor said: “As a professional in the Parks and Recreation space for almost 50 years, I have put in the effort to continuously advance in my career by implementing various programs, running several facilities and serving on numerous boards. I’m excited to get the chance to share my experience working in a field that is traditionally male-dominated with women to help them navigate similar situations in their careers.”
Schlaff said: “This Summit provides the opportunity for Westchester women to learn, meet and network. The event has grown every year as we appreciate and celebrate who we are and share our strength with each new cohort of women that steps up. It is also an opportunity for me to reassert the role of the Office for Women in supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault not just for Women’s History Month, but for all twelve months of the year.”
For more information and to register, go to Westchester Women’s Summit.