Chapter Committees

Where Leadership Meets Action


NAWBO Buffalo Niagara’s committees are the engine behind our chapter’s success. These member-led teams bring our mission to life-shaping programs, growing our membership, advocating for women business owners, and building the strong, connected community we’re known for. Serving on a committee is more than just volunteering; it’s an opportunity to lead, collaborate, and create lasting impact. Ready to make your mark? There’s a seat at the table waiting for you. Reach out to a committee chair or any board member to get started.

Committee Chair Description
Advocacy Sherrie Barr Mack Amplify Our Voice Through Advocacy: This committee educates members on NAWBO’s public policy priorities, coordinates legislative visits on behalf of the Chapter, and fosters relationships with local and regional policymakers. The goal is to ensure our members’ voices are heard and represented on issues that impact women business owners.
Communications Sophie Bautista-Sales Drive the Chapter’s Voice and Visibility: This committee manages all communications and marketing for the Chapter. Responsibilities include promoting events and activities, maintaining a consistent brand image, creating media opportunities for the Chapter and its members, overseeing print and digital materials, managing the website, and developing content and strategy for social media and our electronic newsletter.
DEI&B Janna Willoughby-Lohr Cultivating DEI&B: This committee advances NAWBO’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging commitment locally by strengthening an inclusive chapter culture, elevating underrepresented women entrepreneurs, and partnering with other committees to ensure DEI&B is woven into our programs and leadership pathways. The goal is a chapter where every member feels included, supported, and able to thrive.
Finance Heather Jackson-Fassari Steward the Chapter’s Financial Health: This committee oversees all financial planning and operations for the Chapter. Responsibilities include setting annual budgets for each committee and initiative, preparing monthly financial reports for the Board, conducting quarterly reviews, and managing Chapter investments to ensure long-term sustainability.
Membership Patti Mancabelli Grow and Engage a Thriving Membership: This committee focuses on recruiting, welcoming, and retaining a diverse and dynamic membership. Responsibilities include managing the member and prospect database, overseeing the application process, planning orientation activities, and ensuring all Chapter events foster a warm, inclusive, and engaging environment.
Each One Reach One Jennifer Gattie Each One Reach One (EORO): WNY’s Premier Networking Event. This committee leads the planning and execution of our Chapter’s signature event, Each One Reach One, held annually on the second Wednesday in May. As Western New York’s largest networking dinner, this high-impact event brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and changemakers from across the region.
Next Gen Heather Jackson-Fassari Empowering the Next Generation of Women Entrepreneurs: The NAWBO Buffalo Niagara NextGen program is designed to inspire and support emerging women leaders, college students, and recent graduates with a passion for entrepreneurship. Through mentorship, networking, and hands-on learning opportunities, NextGen members gain valuable insight, build meaningful connections, and develop the confidence to launch and grow their own ventures. This is where future trailblazers find their footing and their tribe.
Board & Leadership Nominating Patti Mancabelli Shape the Future of Chapter Leadership: The Nominating Committee identifies and curates a slate of qualified candidates for Chapter leadership roles. This committee plays a vital role in ensuring strong, effective governance by evaluating potential Board members and cultivating future leaders who align with NAWBO’s mission and values.
Partnerships Christine Howard Fuel Strategic Partnerships and Sponsorships: This committee works alongside the President and President-Elect to build strong relationships with corporate and member partners, secure sponsorships for special events, and grow the Chapter’s financial resources. Members receive support from the Board to connect with Western New York businesses and regional decision-makers.
Programming Aly Luccari Curate Meaningful Monthly Programming: This committee plans and coordinates the Chapter’s monthly meetings—selecting topics and securing speakers that align with member interests and Chapter goals. The team also gathers feedback through evaluations to ensure continuous improvement and value in every program offered.