“ADAPTING IN A TIME OF CHANGE”: SERINO BRINGS HUNDREDS OF LOCAL WOMEN TOGETHER FOR VIRTUAL NETWORKING EVENT

HYDE PARK, NY – In this time of unprecedented change, Senator Sue Serino is working to keep community members connected by bringing hundreds of local women together for a Virtual Women’s Networking event.  The event featured a slate of dynamic local speakers who each discussed how times of change in their own lives have played a role in their personal and professional success. Over 200 community women RSVP’d to participate in the virtual event.

“In this unprecedented time, we are all being forced to adapt and evolve in ways that we never imagined we would,” said Senator Serino. “Now more than ever, we all need a strong and supportive network that we can count on. While we may not be able to physically be together, I am thrilled that women from across our community were able to join together virtually to hear from our three amazing panelists who used their own personal stories to help inspire others to get involved and approach the challenges in their own lives head-on.”

Panelists for this year’s event included:

• Krista Jones, Founder and Executive Director of Sparrow’s Nest charity, and Senator Serino’s NYS Woman of Distinction Nominee, who discussed how Sparrow’s Nest is working to bring hope to the families they serve in a time of so much uncertainty;
• Mecca (Santana) Mitchell, Senior Vice President for Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement and Chief Diversity Officer of Westchester Medical Center, who talked on how she found her own career path by identifying her callings and purpose; and
• Filomena Fanelli, CEO and Founder of Impact PR & Communications, who touched on her personal story and how she moved beyond what she saw herself as.

Krista Jones, Founder and Executive Director of Sparrow’s Nest, said “I was so pleased to be asked to take a part in Senator Serino’s virtual networking event. In a world where rapid change is taking place constantly, it is so important to keep the lines of communication open within our community. As much as we may struggle with change, being fluid is essential and needed in order for us to thrive.”

Mecca (Santana) Mitchell, Senior Vice President for Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement and Chief Diversity Officer of Westchester Medical Center, said “I have always enjoyed participating in events like this that are all about empowerment and I am so grateful that Senator Sue Serino continues to promote forums and create spaces for talented, diverse, and dynamic women to connect –if only virtually – for fellowship and support during these challenging times.” 

“There’s nothing more powerful than sharing stories of vulnerability and resiliency and that’s exactly what this Women’s Networking Event brought to the virtual table,” said Filomena Fanelli, CEO and founder of Impact PR & Communications. “Through this collective experience, our community drew closer together and vital connections were made that will help us all to better adapt and overcome.”

Senator Serino hosted her first Women’s Networking Event in July of 2018 with a goal of bringing women in the community together to help foster the development of a strong, united network. Since the event’s inception, Senator Serino has hosted four additional networking events and has brought hundreds of local women together.

For those who were unable to tune into the event, individuals can view a recording here. Those interested in participating in future events should call Senator Serino’s District Office at 845-229-0106.

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