Women2Women Spring 2026

Program

WOMEN2WOMEN 2

The Unseen Struggle | pg. 22 15 Years of W2W | pg. 30 The 2026 W2W Conference + Expo

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Cory Varona Corniel & Nicol Varona Cancelmo | pg. 5

Reclaim Your Anger | pg. 14

Your Create Comeback

“Earning my degree while working full time took my career to the next level. Alvernia’s online nursing program made the whole process super convenient. Everything I learned I was able to use at work right away. It gave me the confidence to take on projects, lead my team and get promoted. And because it was online, I never had to put my life on pause..”

— Jeri D. Eifler ‘23 RSN

to BSN

GROW LEAD

Kirsten P. Haas, Managing Editor 606 Court Street • Reading, PA 19601 greaterreading.org/women2women • 610.376.6766

Women2Women Council: Tracy Parmer, Chairwoman

Kristi Bonanno, Tracey Ciesnolevicz, Laurie Grube, Katie Johnsen, Sarah McDaniel, Jes Prutzman, Alyssa Redding, Regina Rinehimer, Brenda Rosado, Erika Ruelas, Dennie Smith, Jackie Stiles, Ruthann Woll

Women2Women is Greater Reading Chamber Alliance’s catalyst for developing women leaders and connecting women from diverse backgrounds to learn, share ideas, and mentor each other. W2W offers a forum for women to create connections, gain knowledge, and build strategic alliances to foster their personal potential and career advancement. Joining the network is open to all who support women and Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance.

To join: W2W@greaterreading.org Stay connected: Greaterreading.org/women2women

BerksWomen2Women berks_w2w Berks Women2Women

Title Sponsors

Kingsview Partners

SPONSORS

Penn State Health St. Joseph

Diamond Sponsors

East Penn Manufacturing Company

Penske Truck Leasing

Platinum Sponsors

Alvernia University

Highmark Blue Shield

Our Konnection

Gold Sponsors

Bent Limb Farm

Berks County Living Customers Bank

EnerSys

First National Bank

Fulton Bank

Swag Sponsor

Gallagher

Van Scoy Jewelers

De Mujer a Mujer

M&T Bank

Women In Business

Diamond Credit Union

20 Using Emotional Intelligence to Resolve Conflict: Turning Tension into Trust 22 The Unseen Struggle: Mental Health in Perimenopause and Menopause

Reading Truck Tower Health

Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys

Lala Glam Events

Masano Bradley-Attorneys at Law

RKL LLP

Tompkins Community Bank

Visions Federal Credit Union

Gage Personnel: Staffing | Search | Consulting

Irish Creek Construction

JPrutzman Enterprises, LLC

Met-Ed, A FirstEnergy Company

St. Luke’s University Health Network

Upohar LLC

30 W2W: 15 Years and the Future is Crystal Clear

Cory Varona Corniel & Nicol Varona Cancelmo, Founders of OCOA Beauty

Reflections

There is a special kind of electricity that fills the air when women gather with intention. It’s the spark of a shared struggle, the resonance of a common goal and the collective exhale of being in a room where you don’t have to explain your worth—it’s simply understood. As we gather for the 2026 W2W Conference + Expo, that energy is already palpable.

Our keynote speakers (who are also this issue’s Women2Know), will share how their personal journey of self-acceptance led to creating a nationally recognized beauty brand. Additionally, 2026 Conference + Expo participants will also:

• Attend workshops on befriending your anger; menopause and perimenopause; leaping into the financial markets; and how to use emotional intelligence to resolve conflicts.

• Talk to a plethora of woman-owned/woman-focused local businesses and non-profits.

• Find out who is the 2026 ATHENA Award recipient.

• And so much more!

Whether you are a seasoned executive, a budding entrepreneur, a student looking to the future or someone looking for that next pivot, this conference is your home base.

I can’t wait to see you there, standing tall and ready to make magic. W2W isn’t just talking about the future; we are building it, one connection at a time.

Kirsten P. Haas

Kirsten P. Haas Managing Editor, W2W Magazine

Fifteen years ago, I was still working at my middle-management role in manufacturing. Over the course of the 16 years to that point, I learned a lot about the industry in which I worked as well as how to navigate my work environment (some days better than others). During that time, I had many professional mentors—most of them, men. Why? Well, manufacturing was and still is very maleheavy. And, they were great mentors, don’t get me wrong. Women in leadership roles were not common, but I did manage to cultivate some mentors among them as well.

15 years ago, if you had told me about a local women-focused networking/development/support group that had started and gee, why don’t you check it out? I would have scoffed dismissively and gone on my way.

Why? Well, frankly, until 2018, when I began working for the organization that conceived Women2Women (W2W), I didn’t know what I was missing. But since then, I do know what I found.

I found a movement. I found kindred spirits with whom I could share my failures and learn from them how to overcome to rise again. I found value in learning how to use my skills to transform my career. I learned new skills and met new people, exposing me to new ideas and

Inspiration

new possibilities. I realized that I had much to offer of myself to a greater community. I found the true magic of W2W isn’t found in the events or the impressive speakers brought to the stage. It’s found in the “quiet wins”:

• The woman who finally asked for the raise she earned.

• The connection made over coffee that turned into a local business partnership.

• The mentor who realized she learned just as much from her mentee as she gave.

If the past 15 years taught me anything, it’s that resilience is a superpower. Through it all—economic shifts, a global pandemic, the ever-changing landscape of the modern workplace—W2W’s mission remains steady: to provide women with the platform, the tools and the community to thrive.

W2W’s 15th anniversary isn’t a finish line; it’s a launching pad. We will continue to challenge the status quo and ensure that every woman in Berks knows she has a seat at the table—and if there isn’t one, we’ll help her build it.

Here’s to fifteen years of sisterhood, success and making things happen. Let’s keep growing, TOGETHER. 2

March 4, 2026

8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

THE STORY OF OCOA BEAUTY

Cory Varona Corniel and Nicol Varona Cancelmo are the visionary Dominican American sisters behind OCOA Beauty, a high-end curly hair care brand dedicated to celebrating natural beauty in its most authentic form. Based locally in Reading, Pennsylvania, the sisters founded OCOA Beauty with a bold mission: to help women, especially Latinas, reclaim confidence in their natural hair texture and challenge the stigma of “pelo malo” (bad hair).

What began as a personal journey of self-acceptance has evolved into a nationally recognized business success story. 2025 marked a pivotal year for the brand, as Cory and Nicol led OCOA Beauty to a historic nationwide launch in Ulta Beauty, cementing their status as major players in the competitive beauty industry. Their rapid growth and commitment to excellence have garnered national attention, earning them features on Good Morning America and Forbes, as well as prestigious accolades like the 2025 Shop TODAY Hair Award and the People en Español Star Product Award.

Cory Varona Corniel, CEO, is the operational powerhouse behind the brand. Holding an MBA in Finance from Penn State and a Diploma in Natural Hair Formulation, Cory leveraged her background in corporate finance to build a scalable business model from the ground up. She leads product innovation, ensuring every formula is clean, safe and effective, proving that a high-performance business starts with a high-performance product.

Nicol Varona Cancelmo, CMO, is the brand’s creative soul and strategic voice. With a degree in Business

Marketing and a Social Media Certification from Georgetown University, Nicol drives the brand’s visual identity and community growth. Her expertise in storytelling has not only built a loyal customer base but has created a movement of “sisterhood” that resonates with women across generations. Together, they are building more than just a hair care brand; they are driving a movement of self-love, economic empowerment and identity. From the heart of Reading to major retailers across the U.S., Cory and Nicol are proof that authentic leadership is the key to lasting success. 2

Women2Women (W2W) is a special program of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA).

GRCA’s mission is to be Berks County’s leading resource for building a healthy, competitive business community by assisting companies to retain, expand and grow their operations and employment while also attracting new business to Berks County.

Greater

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Title Sponsors

Diamond Sponsors

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Bent Limb Farm

Bent Limb Farm

Berks County Living Customers Bank

Berks County Living Customers Bank

EnerSys

D&S Elite Construction

First National Bank

Fulton Bank

Enersys

First National Bank

Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys

Fulton Bank

Lala Glam Events

Masano Bradley-Attorneys at Law

Grey Girl Photography

RKL LLP

Herbein + Company, Inc.

Tompkins Community Bank

Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys

Visions Federal Credit Union

Masano Bradley

M&T Bank

Met Ed / FirstEnergy

RKL LLP

Tompkins Community Bank

Swag Sponsors

Gallagher

VA Productions, Inc.

Van Scoy Jewelers

VISIONS Federal Credit Union

Swag Sponsor

De Mujer a Mujer

Assured Insurance

M&T Bank

De Mujer a Mujer

Women in Business Sponsors

Diamond Credit Union

Berks Community Television

Gage Personnel: Staffing | Search | Consulting

Irish Creek Construction

Women in Business Sponsors

JPrutzman Enterprises, LLC

Diamond Credit Union

Met-Ed, A FirstEnergy Company

St. Luke’s University Health Network

Irish Creek Construction

GAGE Personnel

Upohar LLC

Women2 Know

Nicol Varona Cancelmo

Looking Back, Looking Forward

W2W first met OCOA Beauty founders, sisters Cory Varona Corniel and Nicol Varona Cancelmo, in the Summer 2023 issue of W2W Magazine: The Boss Issue. Now, they are the 2026 W2W Conference + Expo keynote speakers and W2W’s Spring Women2Know!

When readers were introduced to you and OCOA Beauty in 2023, you were in a period of exciting growth. What feels different about the business today compared to two years ago?

In 2023, we were in a “bridge” phase. We had just rebranded and were navigating the vulnerability of unveiling 22 months of work. At that time, Nicol was still balancing a fulltime job while Cory had just transitioned to the business. Today, the biggest shift is our collective capacity. Moving from a high stakes “side hustle” to a fully realized enterprise has changed everything. Back then, we had the vision but lacked the bandwidth to execute at scale. Once we both committed full-time and aligned with the right partners, the momentum became night and day. We aren’t just dreaming anymore—we are executing.

What was happening behind the scenes in 2023 that readers didn’t see but that helped prepare you for the growth you’re experiencing now?

While the rebrand looked seamless on the outside, we were navigating significant packaging hurdles. We had to pivot quickly to find new partners who could meet our quality standards for our bottles.

Simultaneously, we were deep in R&D for a “dream product” that wouldn't see the light of day until 2025: our Curl Refresh Spray It took two years of testing and refining to finalize that formula. Those “invisible” years taught us that excellence can’t be rushed; they prepared us for the rigors of national retail.

Has your vision for OCOA Beauty evolved since that 2023 article was published, or has the growth reinforced what you always knew the brand could become?

The growth has acted as a powerful reinforcement. Our “North Star” was always to see OCOA Beauty on the shelves of a major beauty retailer like Ulta Beauty. Achieving that in 2025 wasn’t a change in direction—it was the fulfillment of a promise we made to ourselves when OCOA Beauty was just an idea.

OCOA Beauty is now being sold at Ulta Beauty—a huge milestone. Can you walk us through what that moment meant for you personally and professionally?

Personally, it was a historic moment for representation. We weren’t just putting products on a shelf—we were bringing our community and our Dominican heritage into the national spotlight. Professionally, it was our “proof of concept.” It validated that an emerging, sister-led brand could disrupt the market and stand tall alongside the biggest names in beauty. It proved that our dedication to clean, high-performance haircare was exactly what the modern consumer was looking for.

What did it take to get OCOA Beauty “retail ready” for a national brand like Ulta Beauty, and what lessons did you learn along the way?

It took immense perseverance and the willingness to be a student again. A pivotal moment was being selected for the 2024 Ulta Beauty MUSE Accelerator program. That ten-week program was our “retail bootcamp,” giving us the tools to scale our operations.

The biggest lesson? Trusting our unique point of view. When you’re standing next to global giants, it’s tempting to blend in. We learned that our story and our authentic connection to our community are our greatest competitive advantages.

How has being in Ulta Beauty changed the way you think about your brand, your customer or your role as founders?

It has shifted our focus toward innovation and legacy. Now that we have a larger platform, we feel a deeper responsibility to listen to our growing community. As founders, we’ve moved from managing the day-to-day to vision-casting for the future. It has given us the itch to tap back into our roots and continue creating products that haven’t been seen in the industry yet.

Growth often brings new challenges. What has been the most unexpected challenge of scaling the business—and how have you navigated it together?

The most unexpected challenge has been managing the velocity of scale. When you grow this fast, your supply chain and logistics must be flawless. We’ve navigated this by leaning into our different strengths: one of us focuses on the “big picture” strategy while the other ensures the operational foundation is rock solid. We’ve learned that we can’t do it all, which is why building a trusted team has been vital.

Continued on page 10

WOMEN2KNOW

How has your leadership as women founders changed as the company has grown? Are there skills you’ve had to develop that you didn’t anticipate early on?

We’ve had to transition from founders who do everything to leaders who empower others. The skill of delegation was the hardest to learn. We’ve had to develop a high level of emotional intelligence to lead a team through the fast-paced transitions of a growing startup, ensuring our company culture remains as healthy as the hair we treat.

In what ways do you feel OCOA Beauty’s success creates opportunities for other women—whether through inspiration, employment or representation in the beauty industry?

We take immense pride in the fact that OCOA Beauty is mostly women-led. By hiring women and partnering with women-owned businesses, we are creating a micro-economy of support. Beyond employment, we want our presence in Ulta Beauty to serve as a “permission slip” for other women of color to take up space in the prestige beauty industry. If we are there, they can be too.

How has being part of the Women2Women community continued to support or influence your journey since your original feature?

The W2W community has truly been our “home base.” Entrepreneurship often feels isolating, but having a local network of women who understand the unique challenges of leadership has kept us centered.

Our 2023 feature provided a crucial boost of confidence just as we were preparing for our biggest steps forward. Furthermore, the 2023 W2W Conference + Expo was a pivotal experience; we connected with incredible women and early supporters who later became valuable partners. This highlights the vital importance of community and networking for us, as a simple conversation can genuinely evolve into a significant future opportunity.

What advice would you give to women-owned brands that are where OCOA Beauty was in 2023—dreaming big but still building?

Keep going. Your brand only grows as fast as your bravery. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to take the leap—the leap is what creates the moment. There will always be challenges, but as long as you remain obsessed with your “why,” you will find your way to your destination.

As you look ahead, what’s next for OCOA Beauty that you’re most excited about?

We are currently back in the lab working on a brand-new collection that we’ve been dreaming about for years. Formulating and testing is where our hearts are, and getting to do it now with a larger team and more resources is an absolute joy. We’re not just growing a brand; we’re building a legacy of confidence, one curl at a time. 2 Rely on our team of qualified investment professionals to provide

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Registration & Expo Grab your W2W Welcome Bag Coffee/Tea and Lite Breakfast

9:15 a.m. Keynote Speakers 10:30 a.m.

LIFTS • RAMPS

Breakout Session 1*

11:30 a.m.

Breakout Session 2*

12:45 p.m. Lunch 1:00 p.m. Awards 2:00 p.m.

Breakout Session 3*

3:00 p.m.

Cocktail Party

3:30 p.m.

Wrap up the Conference with Raffle Drawing

* Breakout Sessions

Participants will be able to choose three of the four breakout sessions:

• Menopause & Perimenopause by Dr. Jessika Kissling, OB-GYN, Penn State Health

• Befriending your Anger by Kate Short, Licensed Professional Counselor

• Personal Trainer for Your Financial Wellbeing by Kate Hershey, Senior Vice President, Private Banker, Fulton Bank

• Using Emotional Intelligence to Navigate and Solve Conflict by Brianna Campbell, Certified Strengths Coach, Gallup

2026 CONFERENCE & EXPO

VENDORS

ACC Communications Center Inc.

Animal Rescue League

Assured Assistance

Aurelia Behavioral Health

Breast Cancer Support of Berks County

CatapalloVR

CHOR YFS Foster Care and Adoption Services

Cornerstone Financial Strategies

Fierce LeadHerShip LLC

Filthy Vegan (dba Archwood Soapery)

Focus on Sports Photography

Fostering Hope Berks

Gage Talent & Business Solutions

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

GRCA

Ignite Martial Arts

Interlace Communications

Junior League of Reading

North Star Initiative

Our Konnection

Penn State Berks Chancellor's Office

Penn State Berks Continuing Education & Berks LaunchBox

Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center

Reading Dermatology

Reading Hospital

Reading Public Library

Reading Truck

RKL LLP

Sarai Variety Flower Shop

Shade Tree Interiors

St. Luke’s University Health Network

Suite Impressions Travel

Tinsel & Twig

Tompkins Community Bank

Upohar 2

Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County

A breast cancer diagnosis can dramatically change one’s life; that is when BCSS steps in We provide support groups, information, and emotional support to survivors, friends, family and caregivers.

Limited vendor spaces still available!

BUILD, REMODEL & INNOVATE

Join the Home Run Building and Trade Expo March 13-15 and hit your project out of the park! Connect with top builders, remodelers, and home experts while exploring the latest trends and products.

This year’s show offers:

Access to industry professionals for expert advice

Insights into everything from energy-efficient upgrades to smart home technology

Slapshot appearance March 13 at 4 p.m.

Screwball appearance March 14 at 11 a.m.

Food & beverages and FREE parking! March 14, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. March 15, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Guest Speaker Dr. Lori from the History Channel’s The Curse of Oak Island, available for free appraisals!

• Award-winning, director of the art, antiques, and thrift shopping resource, www.DrLoriV.com

• Over 50 million YouTube views!

ANGERYourReclaim

How often do you feel anger, and would you recognize it if you did? Anger often shows up first in the body: a racing heart, tightening muscles or a sudden surge of heat. For some, the mind goes blank or starts “seeing red.” When anger is expressed through explosive behaviors—yelling, punching walls, saying things that wound—it’s understandable why many people learn to fear it or avoid it altogether.

The hard truth is, avoiding anger often makes it stronger. When anger is ignored or pushed down, it doesn’t disappear, it builds and manifests as passive aggressive behaviors, people pleasing, resentment and sometimes your own version of explosive (or implosive) behaviors followed by regret. Physical symptoms result when anger is held in, such as a clenched jaw, stomach issues, tense muscles and headaches. These are cues. Getting in touch with how we feel anger, can help us to understand our own body’s signals. This is the first step toward tolerance and expression.

The word “anger” itself tends to be avoided in therapy, particularly by women. We feel the need to water it down by using terms like “frustrated,” “annoyed,” “disappointed”—often labeling the word “anger” as too strong and associated with aggression. Anger is normal. Feeling anger is not the same as acting it out. This is an important distinction to make in order to become more accepting of this normal feeling. You are responsible for how you express anger, not for the fact that you feel it.

Our relationship with anger is shaped by our past experiences. When you reflect on how anger was expressed, managed or avoided in your childhood, your current reactions to anger often begin to make more sense. In therapy, I often find that if you learned as a child (explicitly or implicitly) that anger is dangerous, that anger leads to punishment or abandonment, or if your own anger was dismissed, you often struggle as an adult with conflict or accepting your anger. Adult anger can feel frightening—even when it’s appropriate. Recognizing this helps reduce shame around it. When we aren’t taught how to be angry in a healthy way, we often avoid it, judge ourselves for it and continue to be fearful of situations that can cause it.

The intention of anger is to communicate that you matter. Think of your anger as an alarm going off inside of you, communicating that a boundary has been crossed, that something feels unfair or unsafe, or that a need isn’t being met. In this way, trying to get rid of your anger instead of listening to it makes you miss really important information about your needs. It is an opportunity to check in with yourself. Does a boundary need to be set? Have my limits been ignored? Is self-advocacy overdue? Every time you use anger to support clear communication about your needs, you’re also communicating to yourself on a cellular level, “I’ve got you. I’ve got your back.”

Anger is not the enemy. It is an energy that, when honored, can move relationships toward honesty and repair. It can be channeled into longoverdue conversations, problem solving or making hard decisions, all with the intention for positive change, growth and relational restoration. The goal then becomes to use that energy wisely instead of immediately trying to mitigate it. When anger is understood in this way, the intention moves from conflict to repair. Expressed with clarity, assertion and respect, anger can build trust and move relationships toward intimacy and respect. Avoiding anger often protects shortterm comfort but damages long-term connections. Anger becomes a problem only when it is ignored, feared or mishandled.

Befriending your anger grants a freedom that can help you feel more confident in the relationships in your life and in the amount of space you take up in those relationships. You don’t need to feel less anger; you need a better relationship with it. 2

By Kate Short, Licensed Professional Counselor

BLAME MENOPAUSE. I’m Cold, Bald, Flat and Bloated —What’s Wrong?

Dr. Jessika Kissling, the lead physician at Penn State Health Obstetrics and Gynecology at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, sees the wide range of menopause symptoms every day and works with patients to find treatments that fit their lives. Her goal: help women navigate perimenopause and menopause with confidence and care.

What are Menopause and Perimenopause?

Kissling explains that understanding the symptoms starts with understanding the stages. “Menopause is defined as going 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, which happens as estrogen levels decline,” Kissling says. “There’s no single blood test to confirm menopause, but the average age is around 51.”

Perimenopause—the transition leading up to menopause—can last several years and shares many of the same symptoms. During early perimenopause, cycles may become heavier and more frequent, sometimes catching women off guard. Later, periods become lighter and less frequent, with months in between. Even during perimenopause, pregnancy is still possible, so birth control may be needed. Hormonal birth control can also help manage symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.

Because most symptoms stem from lower hormone levels, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment. For women who cannot take hormones— such as those with a history of blood clots or certain cancers—non-hormonal options are available. Some antidepressants can reduce hot flashes, and a newer medication, fezolinetant, works by blocking the chemical that triggers sudden

Four Not-So-Common Menopause Symptoms

While hot flashes and night sweats get the spotlight, Kissling says other symptoms

The same brain center controls hot and cold sensations, so some women experience chills after hot flashes or even without them. Kissling calls this “temperature dysregulation,” and similar therapies can help both extremes.

Hormonal changes influence hair growth. Topical treatments like minoxidil can help, though results take time. Oral medications may also help but can cause unwanted hair growth elsewhere.

Loss of breast fullness: Hormones affect breast size throughout life. During menopause, breast tissue is replaced by fatty tissue, changing shape and size.

Digestive issues and bloating: Lower estrogen can slow digestion, leading to bloating. A high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help.

Other symptoms—such as ringing in the ears, burning tongue, metallic taste or tingling in fingers—may occur during menopause but could also signal other conditions, so Kissling advises evaluation if they persist. 2

By Penn State Health St. Joseph About

Jessika Kissling, MD

Dr. Jessika Kissling is a board-certified, fellowship-trained obstetrician-gynecologist dedicated to caring for women through every stage of life. As part of the Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center team, she provides comprehensive OB-GYN services, including preventive care, pregnancy management and advanced minimally invasive and robotic surgery.

With specialized training from the North American Menopause Society, Dr. Kissling offers expert care for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. She helps patients manage symptoms and explore treatment options, including hormone replacement therapy when appropriate, to ensure they feel informed and supported during this transition.

“I chose OB-GYN because it’s a privilege to care for women throughout their lives,” says Dr. Kissling. “The relationships I build with my patients are truly rewarding.”

WHY THIS CONVERSATION MATTERS

As women, we talk openly about many areas of our lives, our careers, our families, our health, our goals and our challenges. Yet one topic still tends to sit quietly in the background: money. For many, finances feel uncomfortable, intimidating or even taboo. But the truth is simple and powerful— financial independence provides freedom, and it is a conversation we must continue to bring into the light.

That is why I am so excited to feature the breakout session “Personal Trainer for Your Financial Wellbeing” with Kate Hershey, CFP, Vice President of Private Banking Relationship Manager, Fulton Bank, at this year’s Women2Women Conference & Expo. Financial wellbeing is not about wealth for wealth’s sake. It’s about stability, confidence, choice and security. It’s about knowing that no matter what changes life brings, you have the knowledge and tools to navigate them. We should talk about finances more in our friendships, our families, our workplaces and our communities. Talking about money is not a bad thing. It’s necessary. The more we talk about it, the more comfortable we become asking the right questions, understanding our options and making informed decisions that align with our lifestyle and our future goals.

Many of us can think of at least one woman in our life who does not manage her own finances. Maybe it’s a friend, a sister, a colleague or even someone close to home. That reality is concerning not because anyone has done something “wrong,” but because life is unpredictable. Divorce, illness or the death of a spouse can instantly shift someone’s financial reality. Without knowledge or preparation, those moments become even more overwhelming.

This is what motivates me to stay informed and why Women2Women is committed to bringing strong, practical financial content to our community.

The concept behind “Personal Trainer for Your Financial Wellbeing” resonates deeply because it reframes financial planning in a way that feels approachable and achievable. Just like physical fitness, financial health is not built through quick fixes or overnight success. We know fad diets don’t work and neither do get-rich-quick schemes. Lasting results come from consistent habits, discipline and a willingness to show up for yourself over time.

The session encourages participants to define clear, personal financial goals, whether that’s building an emergency fund, preparing for retirement, paying down debt or planning for a future milestone. It emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all

Just like physical fitness, financial health is not built through quick fixes or overnight success. We know fad diets don’t work and neither do get-rich-quick schemes.

solution. Your financial journey should reflect your priorities, your values and your life stage.

What I appreciate most is the focus on fundamentals: building emergency reserves, maximizing tax-advantaged savings and intentionally applying surplus income where it will have the greatest impact. These are not flashy strategies, but they are effective. They are the building blocks of financial resilience.

Financial independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means understanding enough to ask questions, advocate for yourself and make decisions with confidence. It means knowing where your money is, what it’s doing and how it supports the life you want to live.

At Women2Women, our mission is to empower women through connection, education and opportunity. That includes financial education. We believe that strong content—content that is honest, practical and relevant—can change lives. When women feel informed and confident, they show up differently in every area of life.

This conversation is not about fear. It’s about empowerment. It’s about taking ownership of your future and recognizing that financial knowledge is a form of self-care.

If this topic makes you curious, uncomfortable or motivated, that’s a good thing. Growth often starts there. I hope you’ll join us at the Conference & Expo, engage in this conversation, and continue it long after the session ends. Our futures are worth it. 2

kids like Benny are jumping for joy

Using Emotional Intelligence to Resolve Conflict:

TURNING TENSION INTO TRUST

Let’s be honest: most of us don’t wake up excited about conflict.

Conflict can feel uncomfortable, awkward and emotionally charged. It’s the meeting you replay in your head afterward.

The conversation you put off because you’re not sure how it will go. The tension you feel but don’t quite know how to name. And yet—conflict is inevitable. Anywhere there are people, there will be differences, misalignment and moments of friction.

The real question isn’t whether conflict will happen. It’s how we respond when it does.

That’s where emotional intelligence (EQ) comes in.

Emotional intelligence isn’t about staying calm all the time or having the perfect words ready. It’s not about avoiding hard conversations or smoothing things over. EQ is about awareness—of yourself, of others and of what’s really happening beneath the surface. It’s about learning how to pause, get curious and respond in a way that reflects your values instead of reacting on autopilot.

In the breakout session “Using Emotional Intelligence to Resolve Conflict,” we’ll explore what it looks like to navigate conflict with clarity, confidence and connection—without shutting down, blowing up or losing yourself in the process.

This isn’t a lecture. And it’s definitely not a “just be nicer” conversation.

Instead, we’ll dig into the real, everyday moments where conflict shows up at work:

• Giving or receiving feedback

• Navigating tension with a colleague or leader

• Managing emotional reactions (yours or someone else’s)

• Speaking up when something doesn’t sit right

• Repairing trust after miscommunication

We’ll talk about why conflict often feels so personal— even when it’s not—and how our nervous systems can hijack our best intentions. Drawing from emotional intelligence research and insights inspired by thought leaders like Brené Brown, we’ll explore how fear, vulnerability and shame quietly influence our responses—and how naming what’s happening can change the entire conversation.

One of the biggest myths about conflict is that you must choose between being honest and being kind. In reality, emotionally intelligent conflict allows space for both. When we learn how to stay grounded, listen with curiosity and communicate clearly, conflict becomes less about being right and more about building understanding.

In this session, you can expect:

• Practical EQ tools you can use right away

• Real-life examples (because theory alone doesn’t change behavior)

• Reflection prompts to help you connect the content to your own experiences

• An engaging, low-pressure environment that invites participation

You don’t need to be “good at conflict” to benefit from this workshop. You just need to be willing to look at how you show up when things get uncomfortable.

Handled well, conflict doesn’t have to damage relationships—it can strengthen them. It can build trust, create clarity and open the door to more honest, productive collaboration.

This session is an invitation to approach conflict differently: with more awareness, more courage and more choice. Not perfect conversations—better ones. 2

By Brianna Campbell, Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach

E M P L O Y E E

Unseen Struggle:

MENTAL HEALTH IN PERIMENOPAUSE MENOPAUSE & The

Is this you—or someone you know? A successful professional, devoted mother and the friend everyone called in a crisis. But at 48, you’re crying in your car before work, gripped by an anxiety you can’t name. You’ve thought about talking to your doctor, but hesitated. What no one tells you: You’re perimenopausal, and your brain is navigating a profound hormonal shift that affects mental health as dramatically as it affects body temperature. While hot flashes and irregular periods get constant airtime in conversations about perimenopause and menopause, the psychological impact remains surprisingly hidden. Yet research shows that women are two to four times more likely to experience depression during this timeframe than at other life stages. For many women, this mental health struggle becomes their most debilitating symptom—and the one they’re least prepared for.

When Your Brain Chemistry Changes

Estrogen doesn’t just regulate reproduction. It’s intimately connected to the brain’s production of serotonin, dopamine and other neurotransmitters that govern mood, sleep and cognition. As estrogen levels fluctuate wildly during perimenopause before eventually declining, the brain experiences a kind of chemical turbulence.

Pauline M. Maki, PHD, a professor of psychiatry, psychology and obstetrics & gynecology at the University of Illinois at Chicago, is a leading researcher in women’s brain health, who describes perimenopause as a “window of vulnerability” for mental health. Studies indicate that approximately 40% of women experience psychological symptoms during this transition, including depression, anxiety, mood swings and brain fog. For women with a history of depression, premenstrual syndrome or postpartum depression, the risk climbs even higher.

The Symptoms No One Talks About

Beyond the statistics are the daily realities women face. There’s the crushing fatigue that makes getting out of bed feel like scaling a mountain. The rage that erupts over minor inconveniences, leaving women feeling unrecognizable to themselves. The persistent low mood that dulls what once brought joy. And perhaps most unsettling, the cognitive changes—difficulty concentrating, memory lapses and a mental fuzziness that many women describe as “losing themselves.”

Research shows that up to 60% of women report memory and concentration difficulties during the menopausal transition.This cognitive impact is real and measurable, though thankfully often temporary.

Breaking the Silence

The struggle is compounded by silence and misattribution. Mental health symptoms get dismissed as stress, aging or “just life.” Women themselves may not connect their psychological distress to hormonal changes, particularly when perimenopause can begin as early as the late thirties or early forties. Healthcare providers may miss the connection too, prescribing antidepressants without addressing the underlying hormonal component.

Studies indicate that approximately 40% of women experience psychological symptoms during this transition, including depression, anxiety, mood swings and brain fog.

This matters because treatment approaches differ. While some women benefit from antidepressants alone, others find relief through hormone replacement therapy, which addresses the root cause of their symptoms. Many need both, along with therapy, lifestyle modifications and community support.

A Call for Change

We need to normalize these conversations. When women understand that depression, anxiety and cognitive fog are common neurological responses to hormonal transition— not personal failings or inevitable decline—they can advocate for comprehensive care and extend themselves the compassion they deserve.

The mental health impact of menopause isn’t a minor footnote in women’s health. For millions of women, it’s a profound life disruption that deserves recognition, research and proper treatment. It’s time we brought this hidden struggle into the light, where healing can begin. 2

By Jennifer Goldsmith Cerra, Communications Director, Saville CPAs & Advisors, Dallas, Texas

CONNECT GROW LEAD 2

Women2Women (W2W) is Greater Reading Chamber Alliance’s catalyst for developing women leaders and connecting women from diverse backgrounds to learn, share ideas, and mentor each other through offering a forum for women to create connections, gain knowledge, and build strategic alliances to foster their personal potential and career advancement. Joining the network is open to all who support women.

De Mujer a Mujer, una iniciativa de W2W, continúa conectando a mujeres de diversos orígenes al ofrecer programación especializada en la noche y destacar a oradores de diversos orígenes.

APRIL 2026

MUJER A MUJER: CHAMPIONING YOURSELF & OTHER WOMEN

DATE: THURSDAY, APRIL 9

Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Venue: Centro Hispano

Finding your voice is one thing— using it with confidence is another.

De Mujer a Mujer is thrilled to welcome PA State Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, a dynamic leader, downtown Reading business owner and proud local success story, for an empowering conversation about speaking up, standing firm and owning your seat at the table. From the workplace to the podium, Rep. Cepeda-Freytiz will share insights on public speaking, assertiveness and self-advocacy, drawing from her journey as an entrepreneur and elected official. This session is about more than confidence—it’s about clarity, courage and learning how to make your voice heard in spaces where it truly matters. Come ready to be inspired, energized and reminded that your voice has power!

Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz is a native of New York City and attended the State University of New York at New Paltz College where she majored in French, minored in Spanish and earned a bachelor’s degree of Arts. She also has a Master of Science in Education degree from Long Island University.

University’s

Johanny was appointed to City Council representing District 6 in the city of Reading in January 2019. She was later elected to serve, beginning a four-year term in January 2020. In June 2022, she was unanimously appointed President of Reading City Council, becoming the first woman to serve in that role.

On January 3, 2023, Johanny began her first term as the PA State Representative for the 129th legislative district. She serves on the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, Commerce, Finance, Gaming Oversight, Tourism, Economic and Recreational Development Committee and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee and currently serves as Chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus.

Johanny has served on the boards of Safe Berks, the Reading Public Library, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, El Centro Hispano Daniel Torres and on the Reading Muhlenberg CTC Occupational Advisory Committee. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to the Berks community including the 2009 James Hyson Entrepreneur Award from Community First Fund; the Businessperson of the Year by the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce in January 2011; the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania 2017 Take the Lead Award; the COVID-19 Hero Award from United Community Services in 2020; in 2021, the Purple Ribbon Business Partner of the Year by the Domestic Shelters Organization; and the 2024 Community Leader of the Year by Latino Connections.

Dates, times and locations may be subject to change. Please go to the Events Calendar at https://greaterreading.org/women2women for the most up-to-date information.

To register for events & join Women2Women, visit www.greaterreading.org/women2women

ON THE CALENDAR

APRIL 2026

HIRED OR HIRING: HOW AI IS CHANGING THE RESUME GAME

DATE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Venue: Berks Nature

Whether you’re building a resume, rethinking your career path or reviewing applications from a stack of candidates, AI is already shaping the way we work and the way we get hired. This Women2Women (W2W) panel brings together experts from higher education and talent solutions to explore how artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool on both sides of the hiring process.

Our panel—including a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Career Development at Alvernia University, professionals from Gage Talent & Business Solutions and the Director of Career Services at Reading Area Community College (RACC)—will break down how AI can be used to:

• Strengthen and refine your resume

• Tailor applications to specific roles and industries

• Explore career options and identify your best-fit next step

• Streamline the hiring process and identify qualified candidates more effectively

This conversation is designed for students preparing to enter the workforce; professionals looking to pivot or level up; and employers and hiring managers who want to work smarter—not harder—when it comes to talent acquisition. We’ll talk honestly about best practices, common pitfalls and how to use AI as a tool (not a crutch) in an increasingly competitive job market.

As one of W2W’s student-invited events, this program also creates a unique opportunity for meaningful networking between students and established career women—making it just as valuable for connection as it is for content.

Whether you’re job hunting, hiring or simply curious about how AI is changing the rules of the game, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

MEET OUR PANELISTS

Megan

Adukaitis

| Reading Area Community College (RACC)

Megan Adukaitis is a higher education leader with over 25 years of experience in career development, student affairs and workforce readiness. Currently serving as Director of Career Services at RACC, she leads a team that expands access to career resources through employer engagement, classroom integration and inclusive programming. Actively engaged in leadership and service, she currently serves on the board of the Reading Science Center and the W2W Research and Development Committee. She holds a master’s degree in Higher Education Counseling from West Chester University.

Kris Bashore | Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Kristine (Kris) Bashore manages the HR operations and strategy group and focuses on Senior level HR outsourcing including organizational and HR leadership development, employee relations, HR team assessment, Executive Coaching and Strategic

Planning. She has more than 30 years of wide-ranging HR leadership experience including 23 years at Caron Treatment Centers where in her final position as their chief operating officer, she led day-to-day operations, overseeing human resources, training, professional development, quality, compliance, risk management, admissions, facilities, regional services, marketing and business development.

Kaela Stankiewicz | Alvernia University

Kaela Stankiewicz is a graduate student at Alvernia University pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling. She serves as a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Career Development, where she works closely with students to support career planning and professional development. Kaela is a counselor-in-training working toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is a former student-athlete and a graduate of Delaware Valley University, where she earned a degree in Counseling Psychology and Criminal Justice. Kaela currently serves as a member of the Delaware Valley University Alumni Council Board. Kaela has professional experience working within the Berks County Jail, supporting individuals in the drug and alcohol program, as well as experience in an inpatient drug and alcohol treatment setting. She is dedicated to empowering others through guidance, encouragement and meaningful connection.

Scan here to visit our website and check out our mental health services, including: Individual Therapy Group Therapy

Couples Counseling School-Based Services

Don’t forget to check out our wellness services, including: Nutrition Coaching Accountability Coaching Life Coaching

ON THE CALENDAR MAY 2026

FOOD AS MEDICINE

DATE: THURSDAY, MAY 21

Time: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Venue: TBA

What if the path to feeling better, having more energy and supporting the people you love started right on your plate?

At this interactive Women2Women event, we’ll explore the powerful connection between nutrition and overall wellness. The evening will begin with a short talk from a nutrition professional on how food can play a key role in preventing and managing common health concerns. Then, the real fun begins.

Attendees will be able to visit a variety of expert-led stations focused on practical, everyday topics—from meal planning and cooking for one, to navigating dietary needs related to diabetes, heart health and caring for aging parents. Guests can gather resources, ask questions and even sample simple, healthy foods along the way. If you’re a local nutrition professional, health-focused organization, or food-based business with an educational approach to wellness, we’d love to connect with you as we shape this experience for our community.

Come curious—and leave with ideas you can actually use at home. Contact Jackie Stiles (jstiles@greaterreading.org) if you’re interested in participating.

JUNE 2026

DE MUJER A MUJER: FINANCES AND THE 7TH ANNUAL DE MUJER A MUJER AWARDS

DATE: THURSDAY, JUNE 11

Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Venue: Tec Centro

Empowerment takes many forms—and financial confidence is one of the most powerful tools a woman can have. Join us for this year’s De Mujer a Mujer Awards, where we’ll celebrate the incredible contributions of Latina women in our community while also gaining practical insight into a topic that impacts every stage of life:

finances. Attendees will gain insight into building financial confidence, making informed money decisions and laying the groundwork for lasting stability for themselves and generations to come.

This inspiring event will also honor the newest recipients of the De Mujer a Mujer Awards, recognizing women who are making a meaningful difference through leadership, service and community impact. Their stories remind us that success isn’t just personal—it ripples outward.

Come celebrate, connect and leave with both inspiration and tools to support your goals—because when women are informed, supported and financially confident, our whole community grows stronger.

MEET OUR FACILITATORS

Michelle Leguisamon

Michelle Leguisamon is a Lending Support Specialist passionate about helping individuals and businesses access commercial financial services. A proud Dominican immigrant and first-generation college graduate, she holds a degree in Finance with a minor in Latino Studies. Michelle began her career in social services, assisting individuals with disabilities in understanding their Social Security benefits, before transitioning into the finance field at Finanta. She brings a strong commitment to community impact, cultural awareness, and financial empowerment to her work.

Abigail Torres

Abigail Torres has been working in the banking industry since 2010, bringing more than a decade of experience across a wide range of roles, including loan officer. Today, she serves as a Bilingual Community Lender with Finanta, where she is deeply passionate about helping individuals and families build financial stability and achieve their goals. Abigail is especially committed to supporting her community through education, access and personalized guidance. Outside of work, her most cherished role is being a grandmother to her two-year-old grandson, Elijah, who is truly the center of her world.

LOBSTERFEST!

DATE: THURSDAY, JUNE 18

Time: 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Venue: Go Fish! Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Kick off the summer with great food, great company and a whole lot of fun at Women2Women’s Annual Lobsterfest! This isn’t your average networking event—it’s a laid-back evening filled with laughter, connection and buttery lobster goodness.

Join us at Go Fish! Seafood Market & Sushi Bar, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and the company of incredible women. Whether you’re bringing friends, colleagues or just your appetite, you’re guaranteed to leave with a full belly and a bigger network.

Pro tip: Bring your own bib or apron for some serious lobster claw cracking. All that’s missing is you! Plus, by attending, you’ll be supporting an amazing woman-owned business.

Come hungry, leave happy and let’s toast to a summer of connection!

W2W:

15 Years and the Future is Crystal Clear

In 2011, a transformative idea began to take shape within the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA). While Berks County had no shortage of professional talent, there was a growing realization that women in the region lacked a dedicated, centralized platform for mentorship, leadership development and high-level networking. Recognizing this gap, Karen Marsdale, then-Senior VP of the GRCA, spearheaded the creation of Berks Women2Women (W2W).

The Spark of Innovation

W2W was not merely about adding another networking mixer to the calendar; it was a strategic response to the shifting landscape of the local workforce. Marsdale and a core group of founding members—representing industries from healthcare and banking to media and hospitality—set out to build a catalyst for change. The founders held firm in their vision, identifying that professional women often faced unique barriers, including a lack of access to strategic alliances and a “broken rung” on the leadership ladder.

“We worked tirelessly at working sponsorships, getting buy-in from

the community, all while planning great programming for an entire year... I somehow knew this was groundbreaking.” — Karen Marsdale, Founder

Mission and Early Impact

From its inception, the organization was built on three pillars:

• Mission: To develop women leaders across all career levels.

• Inclusion: Reaching across the community to include women from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

• Mentorship: Creating a pipeline where tenured professionals could pay it forward to the next generation.

The initiative quickly gained momentum, evolving from a local committee into a powerhouse program that now hosts the annual Conference & Expo, the ATHENA® Leadership Awards, and the Evening of Empowerment. A significant milestone in

“We worked tirelessly at working sponsorships, getting buy-in from the community, all while planning great programming for an entire year... I somehow knew this was ground-breaking.”

— Karen Marsdale, Founder

its growth was the launch of De Mujer a Mujer, a specialized initiative designed to engage and support the Spanishspeaking professional community in Berks County, ensuring that the organization’s reach remained as diverse as the region itself.

15 years later, W2W stands as the premier organization for female empowerment in Berks County. It has transformed into a thriving network of thousands, proving that when women are given the space to learn, share and lead, the entire community prospers. 2

READY FOR LIFTOFF

Top 5 reasons to attend the Annual Dinner

Celebrating Success Among the Stars: The Annual Dinner remains the premier night to honor the shining achievements of our local business community. We’ll proudly present the Business Excellence Awards recognizing organizations that have demonstrated remarkable growth, innovation and resilience. It’s your chance to applaud the accomplishments of your peers and celebrate the businesses that continue to elevate our region.

Cosmic Inspiration: This year’s keynote speaker is truly out of this world. Mike Massimino—former NASA astronaut, New York Times bestselling author, Columbia University professor and familiar face on television—will take the stage with his talk “Be Ready for the Future: Change is Inevitable, Accept and Embrace It.” His stories promise to leave you energized, motivated and ready to launch into whatever comes next.

A Theme Ready for Liftoff: Prepare to step into an atmosphere that’s boldly going where no Annual Dinner has gone before. This year’s theme leans into an outer space, moonwalking, futuristic vibe—think cosmic colors, celestial décor and a sense of wonder that transports you beyond the everyday.

Stellar Networking: With nearly 800 business professionals in attendance, the Annual Dinner continues to be one of the region’s most valuable networking opportunities. Whether you’re forging new partnerships, reconnecting with colleagues or exploring fresh business horizons, you’ll be surrounded by leaders and innovators from across industries.

A Night Out That’s Light Years Above the Ordinary: While last year’s event featured an interactive performance, this year invites you to simply relax, enjoy and immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening. Great food, great company and an

 Wednesday, May 13

 5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

 Santander Arena

atmosphere that’s equal parts elegant and electric— it’s the perfect night to step away from the day to day and celebrate in style. Get ready for a night that’s truly stellar.

Scan code to purchase tickets or visit greaterreading.org/dinner