Messages from Our President & President-Elect

Wisdom from Those Are Leading the Way


Our chapter presidents leave a lasting mark on NAWBO Buffalo Niagara. This page honors their leadership, vision, and commitment through personal messages that reflect on their time at the helm. Their insights serve as a bridge between our legacy and our future, offering inspiration, gratitude, and guidance for the leaders of tomorrow.

Chapter President – Patti Mancabelli –  Her Corporate Counsel, powered by Mancabelli Law PLLC

As business owners, we navigate challenges and celebrate wins, often in our own silos. But what happens when you step outside those boundaries and immerse yourself in a room full of innovative, driven women who are shaping the future of business? Magic happens. That’s exactly what the NAWBO delivers with its National Events, and the upcoming conference in Washington, D.C., June 5-8 promises to be no exception.

Here’s why attending a National NAWBO Event can be a transformative experience for you and your business:

  1. Unparalleled Networking Opportunities. National NAWBO Events bring together women business owners from across the country, representing a diverse range of industries and experiences. This isn’t just a networking event – it’s an opportunity to build meaningful relationships with women who understand your journey. Whether you’re looking for mentorship, collaboration opportunities, or simply someone who “gets it,” these connections can be invaluable.
  2. Advocacy and Empowerment. Washington, D.C., is the perfect backdrop for this year’s event because it places us where NAWBO started fifty years ago. NAWBO is the voice of women business owners, and this event brings those voices together for education sessions, a partner briefing, group meetings on the Hill, and, of course, the annual group photo on the steps of the Capitol. Experience the empowerment of speaking out on issues most important to all women business owners.
  3. Access to Thought Leaders and Game-Changing Ideas. The lineup at National NAWBO Events is always top-notch. Leadership Onboarding, Membership Meeting, and the National Women’s Business Conference, concluding with the Annual Awards Gala. The 50th event sessions are designed around NAWBO’s three pillars of Education, Leadership, and Advocacy, and our Keynote is Actress & Social Justice Humanitarian Ashley Judd! This experience provides insights into emerging trends, practical strategies, and innovative ideas that can help you take your business to the next level.
  4. Recharge for Your Business and Your Spirit. Running a business is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. Attending a National NAWBO Event is like hitting the reset button. You’ll leave feeling energized, inspired, and ready to tackle the challenges ahead with renewed focus. It’s an investment in yourself – and by extension, your business.
  5. A Chance to Celebrate Our Collective Success. One of the most powerful aspects of an in-person National NAWBO Event is the sense of community. It’s a reminder that while our individual paths may look different, we are united by a shared mission to grow our businesses, empower others, and create lasting impact. Together, we celebrate how far we’ve come – and dream about what’s next.

The June 2025 NAWBO Event in Washington, D.C., is more than just a conference; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that when women come together, incredible things happen. So mark your calendar, pack your business cards, and prepare for an experience that could redefine your path forward. See you in DC!

Chapter President-Elect – Stephanie Kennedy – Reach Digital Media Solutions, LLC

As a business owner, it’s easy to put the needs of your business above your own. Deadlines, client demands, and the constant pursuit of growth can make self-care seem like a luxury rather than a necessity. However, prioritizing wellness isn’t just about personal health – it’s about ensuring your business thrives, too.

That is the reason that wellness is this year’s theme for our programming for NAWBO Buffalo-Niagara. Here are a few ways to maintain wellness as a business owner:

  1. Set Boundaries. Define your work hours and stick to them. Overworking may feel productive in the moment, but long-term success depends on sustaining your energy.
  2. Practice Delegation. You don’t have to do everything yourself. Trust your team or outsource tasks to avoid burnout and focus on what you do best.
  3. Schedule Breaks. Even small pauses during the day can improve mental clarity and reduce stress. Try stepping away for a quick walk or a few minutes of mindfulness.
  4. Stay Active. Regular exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves overall energy levels. Find an activity you enjoy and make it part of your routine.
  5. Connect with Others. Being a business owner can feel isolating. Lean on your network for support, whether that’s through mentorship, collaboration, or simply sharing experiences.

Your well-being is the foundation of your business. By prioritizing your health, you’re better equipped to lead, innovate, and grow sustainably. Remember: a thriving business starts with a thriving owner.