Local women helping local women network, learn and thrive has been Women in Networking (WIN) Cleveland’s mission since its inception in 1997. Founded by Barbara Baxter who, “wanted a group where women could be heard, understood and appreciated; a forum where we could grow as individuals and as a group,” WIN continues to help women build connections both personally and professionally through monthly network- ing events, the WIN Cleveland Business Major Scholarship, and supporting local women focused charities.
The board, under the direction of President Emily Smayda- Kelly, is excited to be working with our 2023 In-Kind Charity recipient Girls with Sole. Founded in August of 2009 by Liz Ferro, Girl’s with Sole reaches pre-teen and teenaged females who need someone to believe in them so that, they can believe in themselves. Liz credits athletics for giving her the self-esteem and inner strength needed to overcome difficult times, includ- ing a childhood that exposed her to both foster care and abuse. Girls with Sole uses free fitness and wellness programs to em- power the minds, bodies and souls of girls who are at-risk or have experienced abuse of any kind.
The WIN Cleveland Business Major Scholarship is open to female Ursuline business students Junior, Senior or graduate level. Thanks to the generosity of our members and sponsors, we were able to increase the total scholarships awarded in 2022 from $5,000 to $6,000. The 2022 recipients were Diamond Bragg, Business Management, Melissa Gutowitz, Business Management, Lucille Petkac, Integrated Business Management and Kathleen Teichman, Entrepreneurial Leadership.
This year’s annual fundraiser luncheon is Friday, December 8, 11am to 2pm at the Cleveland Marriott East, Warrensville Heights. The keynote speaker is Liz Ferro, founder of Girl’s with Sole. For tickets, advertising and sponsorship opportunities, visit their website: www.wincleveland.org.
