REPORTOCTOBER 2012

WBE SUCCESS STORIES:ANDRA RUSH

JULIE COPELANDLISA HANLON &

KELLEY CHURCH-BONTEMPO

OPPORTUNITIES: SUMMIT & SALUTETUCK-WBENC EXECUTIVE PROGRAM DOROTHY B. BROTHERS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM JOHNSON CONTROLS

TOP CORPORATION BEST PRACTICES: ALCATEL-LUCENTDELL INC. MANPOWERGROUP

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

NAMWOLF 2012 Annual Meeting & Law Firm ExpoOctober 14-17, 2012Atlanta, Ga.Click here for details.

CPUC / AT&T 2012 Small Business ExpoOctober 18, 2012Computer History MuseumMountain View, Calif.Advanced registration is required for this free event. Click here to view the Media Advisory and registration instructions.

Department of Defense WOSB Opportunity ForumOctober 24, 2012Mark CenterAlexandria, Va.Click here for registration.

San Antonio Latina Style Business SeriesOctober 25, 2012Nationwide Insurance BuildingSan Antonio, TexasClick here for details.

The WBE Corporate Partner PanelOctober 25, 2012Lurie Besikof Lapidus & Company, LLPMinneapolis, Minn.Register by October 17, 2012.Click here for details.

Count Me In: Urban Rebound Conference & CompetitionOctober 28-29, 2012The Westin CharlotteCharlotte, N.C.Click here for details.

NMSDC Conference & Business Opportunity FairOctober 28-31, 2012Colorado Convention CenterDenver, Colo.Click here for details.

USPAACC Business Express: Ready Set GrowNovember 4-6, 2012Hilton Orange CountyCosta Mesa, Calif.Click here for details.

WBEA Cutting Edge Awards LuncheonNovember 6, 2012Renaissance Houston HotelHouston, Tx.Click here for details.

WBCS Power to Potential Business ForumNovember 6, 2012Cityplace Conference & Event CenterDallas, Tx.Click here for details.

GWBC Ladies Achieving Continuous Excellence (LACE)November 8, 2012Marriott Marquis AtlantaAtlanta, Ga.Click here for details.

WBEC-West Marketing to Corporations PanelNovember 8, 2012University of ArizonaTucson, Ariz.Click here for details.

USPAACC West Procurement Connections & Top 10 Asian American Businesses AwardsNovember 8Sheraton San Jose HotelMilpitas, CAClick here for details.

CWE Capital Arts AuctionNovember 13, 2012Hope Artiste VillagePawtucket, R.I.Click here for details.

WPEO DC Annual Breakthrough Breakfast & Trade Fair 2012November 14, 2012JW MarriottWashington, DCWBENC-Certified WBEs must register by October 19 to be eligible for MatchMaker MeetingsClick here for details.

NGLCC 2012 10th Anniversary National Dinner: Beyond Expectations!November 16, 2012National Building MuseumWashington, DCClick here for details.

EDITORIAL TEAMEDITOR-IN-CHIEFPat Birmingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTAllison Gibson

PRODUCTION AND DESIGNLimb Design

PHOTOGRAPHYLinda JohnsonVisionista

WRITERSPaige AdamsSenior Director, Development & Corporate Relations

Kim JonesManager, Corporate Member Services

Brenda LoubePrincipal/Founder of Corporate Fitness Works

Jean PolingContributing Writer

Pamela Prince-EasonPresident & CEO

Lynthia RomneyRomneyCom, LLC

Candace WatermanChief of Staff

LaKesha WhiteSenior Compliance Manager

CALENDAR OF EVENTSTHIS CALENDAR INCLUDES EVENTS HOSTED BY WBENC'S REGIONAL PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS. VISIT WBENC'S ONLINE CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS: OCTOBER EDITION OF THE PRESIDENT’S REPORT

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 4

FEATURES Top Corporation Best Practices: Alcatel-Lucent 5 Dell Inc. 6 ManpowerGroup 8Government Spotlight: U.S. Air Force Technology Expos 10 WIPP Give Me 5% 11

CERTIFICATIONWBE Success Stories: Andra Rush 12 Julie Copeland 14 Lisa Hanlon & Kelley Church-Bontempo 15

OPPORTUNITIESSummit & Salute 16Tuck-WBENC Executive Program 19 Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship Program 20Enterprising Women of The Year Award Call For Nominations 21Johnson Controls 22

RECOGNITION 2013 Women’s Business Enterprise Stars Announced! 25

RESOURCESWomen on Wellness: Breast Health - Awareness & Prevention 26

NEW CORPORATEMEMBERSINGERSOLL RAND Jackie LaJoieSupplier Diversity Manager

THE WALT DISNEY COMPANYElizabeth ValdiviaDirector, Supplier Diversity

TURNER CONSTRUCTIONRuby JonesRes. Director Community Affairs

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Sincerely,Pamela Prince-EasonWBENC President and CEO

“ CELEBRATING THE HARVEST”

October is the month known for harvesting, from the rich, succulent grapes in wine country to the abundant crops at farms across our nation. At WBENC we are harvesting knowledge from many sources to incorporate into our new Insights series. Last month’s sneak preview video depicted some of the thought leaders whose experience and knowledge provoke our constituents to explore innovative concepts that can lead to economic growth. In a few days, our first full video on economic growth and job creation will be available on www.wbenc.org, containing targeted facts and messages designed to provide inspiration for strategies to capitalize on the power of women-owned businesses.

Following the video, papers will be published that explore the buying power of women from various perspectives and provide links to information sources for more in-depth reading. The facts and figures are eye-opening and motivating, underscoring the significant value proposition of marketing to and doing business with women. Our library of Insights resources will continue to expand and will always be at your fingertips on our website. We have many rich and relevant topics in our lineup, all geared to enabling growth and the combined success of all of our constituents.

In addition to our new Insights series we are focused on planning robust, interactive programming for 2013 with the theme of “Join Forces. Succeed Together.” This theme demonstrates our belief that the power of collaboration is an integral component to the success of our corporate and government members and certified WBEs. Together, the power we harness can move our country to a STRONGER state of prosperity by lowering unemployment rates, increasing consumer spending and building a strong foundation of successful businesses that will aid in keeping our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on an upward trajectory. Combining forces between and among our certified women-owned businesses opens up endless opportunities such as joint ventures, multi-tier

relationships and project-based partnerships. At times WBEs are faced with a bid situation where they cannot meet all of the requirements alone but could succeed with a partner. We will be highlighting examples of successful partnerships in future issues of this report demonstrating the strength of WBE to WBE relationships. Networking and matchmaking among our WBEs is a natural evolution of our current corporate to WBE opportunities which we will continue to facilitate and expand.

The implementation of new opportunities to engage our WBEs in meaningful and profitable partnerships is just the beginning. Our success will be measurable across key performance areas such as:

> the ability to fulfill all corporate sourcing requests received with quality, industry specific, qualified WBENC certified WBEs; WBE-WBE collaboration on bids

> competitive bids awarded to WBEs, both individually and in collaboration with other WBEs

> job creation > WBE revenue growth > new certifications in targeted areas and categories > increased corporate membership

As we track our progress, the results will guide us to continuously improve and innovate. Let’s join together to harvest all of the incredible resources within our reach: the Insights series; knowledge and expertise which exist within our multi-faceted constituency; and the skills to capitalize on new, alternative opportunities for business growth. Imagine the successes we will be reaping as we continue along the Roadmap to Growth and Sustainability. The possibilities are endless as we Join Forces to Succeed Together!

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FEATURES

TOP CORPORATION BEST PRACTICES: ALCATEL-LUCENT Building Relationships, Generating Opportunities for WBEs

Alcatel-Lucent takes the development and success of its Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) suppliers very seriously. Not only does it actively seek to engage new WBEs, but it also keeps a watchful eye on their success through strong relationships within its buying community.

A five-time winner of WBENC’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises award, the company takes “a passionate approach to attracting and supporting WBE growth,” said Nick DeTura, Vice President Supply Chain & Logistics, Alcatel-Lucent. The supplier diversity department maintains strong lines of communications among the procurement officers and other buying decision makers across the company. This has enabled

the company to create opportunities for contracts with WBE suppliers and occasionally bridge difficulties to get a supplier relationship back on track.

“ The Supplier Diversity Team works closely with Procurement to ensure Diverse Suppliers are provided opportunities in all major procurement projects,” said Mark Artigues, Senior Director, Supplier Diversity.

As a result of this personalized approach, Alcatel-Lucent develops new and strengthens existing WBE supplier relationships. The company also supports WBE growth among its Tier-Two suppliers through a supplier evaluation process that sets goals and tracks progress of its prime suppliers, including women-owned and diverse suppliers, in their sub-contracting plans. The supplier diversity team sources WBEs on the national and regional level – through the WBENC National

Conference & Business Fair, as well as through WBENC’s Regional Partner Organization, the Women’s Business Council – Southwest. The team pairs WBEs up with the appropriate commodity manager to qualify them and explore procurement possibilities. In some areas, such as installation, WBEs can be relatively rare and the sourcing process can be lengthy. “It can take a year to get an installation project, and the WBE has to prove that it has the skills, certification and quality to provide the service,” said Artigues. One standout WBENC-certified WBE in this area is Avion Systems, headed by CEO Kanchana Raman. Avion has built a relationship with Alcatel-Lucent over the years resulting in a successful installation services relationship.

Artigues and his team foster these relationships. They work to keep the company aware of all WBE suppliers who have the potential to win or expand their contracts with the company. Another example of a WBE that benefited from this attention to detail is Linkex Transportation, headed by Chairman Margaret Parks. When Linkex responded to a request for quote seven years ago, it lost the bid to the incumbent supplier. But six months later, when that supplier closed its doors, Alcatel-Lucent reached out to Linkex, and the WBE responded within 24 hours. Since that time, it has grown and expanded its services with Alcatel-Lucent. Artigues wants to enhance these kinds of opportunities. In addition to raising awareness in procurement, he is spreading the word about WBE potential at the grassroots level, with plans to speak to a number of Alcatel-Lucent’s affinity groups this fall. “If we can build awareness and understanding across the rest of employee base, we will gain additional eyes and ears to opportunities for WBEs,” he said.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

FEATURES

TOP CORPORATION BEST PRACTICES: DELL INC. Governing and Measuring Diversity Across the Company

Under the committed leadership of its founder and Chief Executive Officer Michael Dell, the global technology giant and four-time winner of the WBENC Top Corporation for Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) award, Dell Inc. takes a comprehensive approach to empowering women entrepreneurs and driving their business growth.

Leading from the top, Michael Dell chairs the Global Diversity Council, a group of

senior managers that advocate for diversity and inclusion, establish global priorities,

foster the sharing of best practices, and hold business functions accountable for

managing diversity in pursuit of business objectives.

A key member of the Council is Chief Procurement Officer Kevin Brown, who heads

Dell’s Supplier Diversity Steering Committee. This team takes on precise and

measurable goals that identify incremental opportunities for diverse spend, including

women-owned, in all commodities across the organization.

To accomplish this, Dell uses a distinctive project-based methodology. First, it creates

a solid network of governance – made up of supplier diversity executives as well as

supplier diversity “champions” in all areas of procurement – that are engaged and

accountable to their goals.

“ We start with top-level annual targets that cascade down to specific goals for each commodity and procurement executive,” explained Cyndi Hopkins, director of Global Supplier Diversity at Dell and a 2012 Applause Award winner.

Second, it tracks each area’s progress in terms of strategy as well as metrics –

how each delivers against one or more of four key dimensions:

› Driving spend and inclusion for diverse suppliers

› Expanding the reach and relevance of supplier diversity

› Enabling enterprise development for diverse suppliers, including WBEs

› Encouraging greater Tier Two diverse companies, including WBEs,

in the supply chain

Dell’s engagement with one WBE supplier shows how these dimensions come to life.

Cathi Coan, president and CEO of Techway Services, Inc., is a WBE Star whom Dell

met through WBENC. Dell has worked closely with Coan to help her develop as a WBE

Kevin BrownChief Procurement Officer

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supplier. Dell has sponsored her for the Tuck-WBENC Executive Program; and VP of

General Procurement Kim Brown has met with her one-on-one at the WBENC National

Conference & Business Fair.

Additionally, Coan’s approach to electronic equipment recycling in environmentally

responsible ways is aligned with the company’s mission to maintain a sustainable

supply chain, illustrating how Dell is expanding the reach and relevance of

supplier diversity.

Another example of Dell’s work to expand the reach and relevancy of supplier diversity

could be found at the WBENC 2012 National Conference & Business Fair. There, Dell

established its social media command center, participated in the corporate roundtable

workshops, which included one dedicated to social media. In that workshop, corporate

participants could learn how social media can be used as a tool to advance supplier

diversity and women’s business growth.

To address the dimension of encouraging Tier Two diverse suppliers, Dell is

implementing a strategic initiative with a methodical, three-year plan. In the first year,

Dell is working with suppliers that already have strong supplier diversity programs in

place. Dell will seek to deepen those programs by introducing them to WBENC, for

example, and instructing them on best practices for enhancing their work with WBE

and diverse Tier Two suppliers.

In the second year, Dell will work with prime suppliers whose diversity programs are

developing. The following year, it will work with those suppliers that have no program

at all.

At its heart, Dell values innovation and entrepreneurship, and in support of these

values offers a variety of forums to benefit women entrepreneurs:

› Dell’s Women Powering Business initiative helps women entrepreneurs and

technologists expand their networks while offering capabilities to use technology

more effectively.

› The Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network spotlights female entrepreneurial

success and creates an atmosphere where women can connect, build business

opportunities and recognize female influence in business and technology.

› The Entrepreneur in Residence program brings a woman business owner into the

company to share her perspective and help Dell better understand the needs of

growing businesses.

“ There are so many exciting ways for Dell to engage with women’s businesses so that we both can thrive,” Hopkins said. “The possibilities are endless.”

Cyndi HopkinsDirector of Global Supplier DiversityDell, Inc.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Kimberly BrownVice President, General Procurement and Supplier DiversityDell Inc.

FEATURES

TOP CORPORATION BEST PRACTICES: MANPOWERGROUP Building WBE Capacity and Growth

ManpowerGroup prides itself on helping its “clients win by connecting the potential of people to the ambition of business.” So when it comes to its work with women’s business enterprises (WBEs), it is no surprise that the company – named four times as a WBENC Top Corporation for Women’s Business Enterprises – has an impressive track record in developing capacity for women’s business growth.

ManpowerGroup has built a multi-faceted program to enable WBEs to access senior

level thought leadership, one-on-one performance-based feedback and executive

mentoring to significantly enhance their businesses.

Global trends and leading-edge advice from ManpowerGroup’s senior most executives

and stakeholders are shared with some 150 select WBE and diverse suppliers at

its annual Supplier Diversity Roundtable. This high profile event features in-depth

conversations with the company’s top leadership, including Chairman, CEO &

President Jeff Joerres; Kip Wright, Vice President and General Manager at TAPFIN

and Jorge Perez, Senior Vice President at Manpower, North America.

“ Our Supplier Diversity Roundtable demonstrates the deep commitment that our management has to the development of women’s business enterprises,” said Nancy Creuziger, VP, Global Finance Business Performance at ManpowerGroup. “This is a very special opportunity for WBE and diverse suppliers to get meaningful time with our top executives.”

This support is also reflected in the company’s aggressive pursuit of strong

partnerships with WBE suppliers. It has increased its WBE spend by 55.4% from

2010 to 2011. Additionally, the company has greatly expanded the use of WBEs as

Tier Two suppliers.

ManpowerGroup partners with WBEs in other ways as well, seeking out their

perspective through its ManpowerGroup Supplier Diversity Advisory Board. This is a

forum that brings together key strategic partners from each region of the country to

exchange best practices and market trends.

“We want to hear what our longstanding WBE and diverse suppliers think about their

relationship with the company and our entire supplier diversity initiative,” said Jeanna

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Winkler, Manager, Supplier Diversity & Supply Chain Initiatives. “They in turn gain

tremendous exposure to ManpowerGroup executives across the company.”

The company works one-on-one with WBEs to help drive their growth using a portfolio

of best practice supplier development initiatives. ManpowerGroup uses specific

measurements to identify gaps and opportunities in order to conduct meaningful

performance reviews with WBEs that drive strategies for their improvement.

ManpowerGroup offers three mentoring paths including elite Executive Mentoring

relationships with senior ManpowerGroup executives, Internships and Partnerships.

The Executive Mentoring program works with valued WBEs to help them take their

businesses to the next level. This may include setting and reaching ambitious goals

such as growing globally, or developing a strategic focus for strengthening a company’s

internal practices such as a top flight HR program.

“ The mentor can help a WBE with building the business case for a new initiative and identifying the skill sets and structure it needs to successfully launch and complete it,” Winkler explained. “This requires trust on the part of the WBE and expert guidance from her mentor.”

The Internship programs provide WBEs with access to a variety of subject matter

experts at ManpowerGroup. This is particularly helpful if they have questions, for

example, in employment law or other legal issues. Winkler will put them in touch with

ManpowerGroup experts, or help them access an ongoing stream of information on an

expert blog.

The Partnership program leverages the power of WBE suppliers that have proven

themselves and established strategic relationships with ManpowerGroup. The company

might bring the WBE partner to the table with a client so that together they can provide

more effective service to the client .

For example, OLSA Resources expanded to become a national resource for

ManpowerGroup’s recruiting, delivering service to six major ManpowerGroup clients

across industries. OLSA also broadened its expertise to meet ManpowerGroup’s needs

for light industrial staffing, now 60% of OLSA Resources revenue. Overall, its revenue

has increased by 89%. Today President and CEO of OLSA Resources, Olsa Martini (also

a WBE Star) is a member of the Supplier Diversity Advisory Board.

“ This is an example of a triple-win,” Creuziger said. “OLSA Resources grows exponentially, ManpowerGroup services our clients’ needs more deeply and we see expansion of WBE growth.”

Nancy CreuzigerVice President, Global Finance Business PerformanceManpowerGroup

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

FEATURES

GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT: U.S. AIR FORCE TECHNOLOGY EXPOS

Calling all WBEs and WOSBs in the technology industry!!!

Are you looking to showcase your IT products and services in engineering, cyber

security and programming with hopes of securing a federal contract? Well, your

opportunity awaits, as the U.S. Air Force is hosting a series of onsite technology

expos on multiple bases during October and November providing potential vendors

the chance to market their products and services to DOD procurement personnel.

These bases house more than 100,000 military and civilian personnel in the states of

Colorado, Oklahoma and Florida.

The registration fee ranges from $495 to $1,089 with special rates for small

businesses. Each registered vendor will receive full day access for two (2) company

representatives into secure facilities, the company’s description and contact

information posted in the Exhibitor guide, one (1) five foot table, power strip for

electricity and post-show attendee list.

For more information on registration and event details, please click on the link for each Expo. Do not miss your chance to enter “the wild blue yonder” with the U.S. Air Force.

Buckley Air Force Base ExpositionThursday, October 18, 2012 10:30 AM - 1:30 PMAurora, CO

AFCEA Tinker Air Force Base Tech ExpoWednesday, October 24, 2012 10:00 AM - 2:00 PMOklahoma City, OK

MacDill Air Force Base IT ExpoThursday, November 1, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:00 PMTampa, FL

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REGISTER NOW!

FEATURES

GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT: WIPP GIVE ME 5%

The Voice for Women in Business in our Nation’s Capital, Women Impacting Public Policy, Inc. (WIPP) is a national nonpartisan public policy organization that advocates for and on behalf of women and minorities in business in the legislative processes of our nation, creating economic opportunities and building bridges and alliances to other small business organizations. Through WIPP, our collective voice makes a powerful impact on Capitol Hill and with the Administration.

WIPP has partnered with the Department of Defense and American Express OPEN on the Department of Defense

Women-Owned Small Business Procurement Opportunity Forum on October 24, 2012, in Alexandria, VA. Presented

in partnership with the Department of Defense and Give Me 5, DoD agencies will review their prior year acquisitions

and potential WOSB set-aside opportunities for FY 2013, making this an event you do not want to miss.

This special event will feature: › Insight into potential procurements and WOSB set-asides in 2013 › Key Agency Procurement Representatives from DoD agencies› An update on current Procurement Policy and the WOSB Program

› Opportunities to meet other WOSB and EDWOSB Firms working in your field

This event is brought to you by the Department of Defense’s Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP), and Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) and American Express OPEN’s Give Me 5 Program.

The Give Me 5 Program, named after the 5% federal contracting goal for women-owned businesses, was created by Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) and American Express OPEN to educate women business owners on how to apply for and secure federal procurement opportunities. Visit GiveMe5.com today for webinars, podcasts and resources.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: ANDRA RUSH Driving Job Growth and Sustainability with a “Quintuple Win” in Detroit

Andra Rush, a WBENC-certified WBE and 2008 WBE Star, is head of the Rush Group family of companies, a leading collection of minority- and woman-owned logistics, transportation and automotive component manufacture and assembly companies. In 1984, she founded Rush Trucking, the first in what would become this constellation of businesses. Today through growth, acquisition and joint venture, Rush companies serve many of the Fortune 100 leading auto corporations such as Ford Motor Company, Chrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Honda and many Tier 1 automotive suppliers.

Andra’s latest initiative – Detroit Manufacturing Systems (DMS) – is enabling her to

fulfill her vision of creating long-term, sustainable opportunities for economic growth

and job creation in a city that was hit hardest by the recent economic downturn.

Launched this summer, DMS is a joint venture with Faurecia, an international

automotive parts manufacturer. DMS manufactures and assembles interiors, and

expects to employ 500 people in the City of Detroit by July of 2013.

Ford Motor Company is fueling this opportunity as DMS’ first customer. DMS is

providing cockpit interiors for the Ford Mustang, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator,

and will supply other interior components such as instrument panels, center consoles

and door panels for a growing number of Ford vehicles including the brand stronghold

F-150 pickup truck.

The new company, located in Detroit’s Gateway Industrial Center, has engaged the

support of the UAW (United Auto Workers) and the broader diverse community with the

promise of a multi-generational source of employment and prosperity.

“ This is a quintuple win for our region,” Rush says. “The first win is for our families in Detroit. We have so many educated adults who have been unable to find jobs for four to five years. Now they can bring their work ethic and enthusiasm to our company. Even more important, their children – including those in underserved neighborhoods – can see a purpose to education and ambition.”

Andra RushCEO Rush Trucking

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The second win is the success of the multi-tier opportunities for WBEs and diverse

companies in Andra’s business model. A third is successful collaboration with the

labor union. The fourth is the economic rejuvenation for the city of Detroit and the

state of Michigan.

Last but definitely not least is the win that comes from innovation and the global

partnership with Ford and Faurecia, which will both be sharing and acquiring best

practices in this joint venture.

“ Ford made a bold move by entrusting us as a women- and minority-run company with their major brand. They saw that this is not only economically viable but the right thing to do for our community,” she said.

This economic model is key to Rush’s ability to pursue her vision for a healthier

society. A Native American woman and mother of three young men, she is a passionate

advocate for underserved youth. “I tell people, as long as we can create valuable

products, your grandkids can be working here.”

She implements this philosophy in her own company. One of her young employees had

a master’s degree in engineering but couldn’t get a job; now at DMS he is a facilities

manager who among other roles is responsible for ensuring that the 360,000 square

foot facility is launched on time.

Rush Trucking, the first company in Rush Group family, today services

many of the Fortune 100 companies throughout the North American region

with short-, long-haul, and just-in-time transportation. It provides more

than 800 tractors, 1,100 trailers, 450 employees/company drivers, and

400 owner-operators.

Rush Trucking expanded by acquiring Blazer Truck Lines, Expedited Delivery Service,

Raycan Transport (a Canadian carrier) and Rush Distribution Services and by forming

a joint venture, Dakkota Integrated Systems LLC, to produce interiors for Ford, GM and

Chrysler. The Rush family of services is an inspirational example of a WBE making a

difference and fueling our economy.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: JULIE COPELAND

Julie Copeland, CEO and President, Arbill, has a passion turned mission for her company to: “Envision a future in which every single worker makes it home safe every day.” As an industry leader, Arbill has made the safety of workforces everywhere their priority since their founding year, 1945. Arbill is an award-winning safety products and services provider that meets the needs and exceeds the expectations of every customer and remains dedicated to protecting their clients’ most valuable asset: their employees.

Ms. Copeland joined Arbill in 1995 and took over the helm as CEO in 2005. Since that time, she remains focused on understanding Arbill’s customers’ needs in order to “make work places safer each and every day.” Copeland is adamant about Arbill’s current business direction, always working to provide the highest level of service to Arbill clients. Their recently launched website headline says it all: “Your Employee Safety is our #1 Priority” and includes the number of workers

Arbill protects every day. Currently that number is an impressive 279,715. Her devotion extends beyond Arbill’s clients’ employees to their families:

“ My passion is all about people and their safety. Keeping moms and dads safe; no one can replace the ability to see, play with, or hug your children. We protect our clients’ workers so their lives are not impacted by an on the job accident. I truly love what I do every day.”

Coupled with valuing Arbill’s clients, Copeland believes that they have a significant competitive advantage due to the caliber of their employees, having “A” players throughout the organization. Arbill’s employee base has increased by 10-12% while the company has enjoyed a 20% growth rate. A WBENC certified WBE since 2004, Copeland has held roles in various capacities and has earned numerous awards throughout her tenure. She serves as a board member of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC); Vice Chair of the WBENC Leadership Forum; board member of the Women’s Business Enterprise-PA-DE-Southern NJ Council; and member of the Zenith Group, for women-owned businesses with revenues

of $50 million and above. Her many accolades include being awarded the Women’s Business Enterprise Star Award in 2008 and the Shining Star Award for Leadership from the Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) of PA-DE-sNJ, 2010. An excerpt from the awards commentary noted: “Julie Copeland made a commitment to become involved at a regional and national level when she became WBENC certified in 2004, and has honored that commitment. Julie represents and exemplifies the interest of women business enterprises as a member of the Women’s Business Enterprise Council”….and does to this day. As for the value of WBENC certification for Arbill? “WBENC certification has led to many new clients and opportunities as well as growth with existing relationships, including Coca-Cola, Tyco and Harley Davidson, to name a few,” shared Copeland. Arbill will take on a major leadership role in 2014 as a WBE Co-Chair for the WBENC National Conference being held in Philadelphia.

Copeland is also active in other organizations, as ex officio of the Safety Marketing Group (SMG) and a member of YPO, Young Professionals Organization. She has often been recognized for excellence: received the “Brava! Award”, and named one of the “Smart100”, both by SmartCEO Philadelphia; named Future Leader in Distribution by Industrial Distribution Magazine; recognized as one of the Top 500 Privately Held Businesses in the U.S. and the Top 100 Privately Held Businesses in Pennsylvania.

Copeland’s message always hits “home”: Arbill makes sure that every worker makes it home safely to their families every day. Employees at Arbill know that they make a difference every day. Today, they impact over a quarter of a million people; tomorrow they will save even more lives by making the workplace safer.

For more information about Arbill go to: www.arbill.com

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CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: LISA HANLON & KELLEY CHURCH-BONTEMPO

Teltech Communications supplies new and refurbished telecommunications equipment for the wireless and wireline industries, services include asset management, engineering and recycling solutions. Founded in September 1999 by co-owners Lisa Hanlon, CEO, and Kelley Church-Bontempo, COO, the company has experienced rapid growth over the last year in all facets of the organization. Their journey is fueled by their dedicated efforts to offer incomparable customer service, savings and an industry-unique warranty program. Church and Hanlon have successfully grown Teltech to become a recognized industry leader.

Despite a slow economy, these resourceful businesswomen have grown the company

from a two-women plus part-time accounting organization to a diverse team of 56

employees – over 50% of the growth has occurred since December 2011. The growth

is attributed to strong business acumen and customer relationships built on trust

and dependability.

Finding success as a startup company has not always been easy, but Hanlon and

Church-Bontempo’s journey is inspiring to all women-owned and small businesses.

The women identified their strongest programs where there was opportunity to expand

and explore new avenues in the communications industry. As business leaders, they

have put their focus into recycling, scrapping, and re-kitting the refurbished equipment

that comes into the Teltech Communications warehouse located in Grand Junction, CO.

Teltech’s expertise in refurbishment of equipment is a critical component of the

“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” approach to environmental responsibility. When Teltech

was awarded a project for a Tier I carrier consisting of consignment, scrapping and

redeployment of equipment – the stage was set for rapid growth. Within the past six

months Teltech has created new jobs, added Employee Development programs and

made significant capital improvements to a Community Identified Improvement District

through its purchase and renovation of a 155,000 sq ft warehouse.

To keep this organization on track for success, there is a strong commitment to

continuous improvement, hard work, healthy discipline and nurturing team spirit.

To emphasize its environmental focus Teltech is currently in the process of pursuing

R2/RIOS certifications. To learn more about Teltech visit their website:

http://teltechcomm.com.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

OPPORTUNITIES

WBENC 2013 SUMMIT & SALUTE TO WOMEN’S BUSINESS ENTERPRISESJoin Forces. Succeed Together.

In 2013 WBENC will celebrate the 15th Annual Summit & Salute to Women’s Business Enterprises. The event will be held March 13-14, 2013 at the Baltimore Hilton in Baltimore, MD, bringing together America’s leading corporations, government agencies, women business owners and strategic partner organizations. Accenture and Ernst & Young LLP are the 2013 Presenting Sponsors for the event. Their leadership will enhance the quality and content of the program.

The theme for this event is “Join Forces. Succeed Together.” and opportunities will abound

to make that theme a reality for the over 1,000 anticipated attendees. As we progress on

the Roadmap to Growth and Sustainability, it is apparent that the need to strengthen our

partnerships not only with our valued corporate and government members but also between

our certified WBEs is critical to our collective success. This success will result in fueling

economic growth by opening up new channels of revenue and creating jobs across both the

public and private sector. WBENC will expand networking, matchmaking and mentoring

opportunities to include the WBE to WBE connections as well as a keen focus on delivering

industry expertise and innovation across our WBE constituents and the corporate and

government members. Corporate and government members can network with their peers,

Top Corporation awardees and certified WBEs. Members will be able to establish connections

with WBEs that can strengthen their supply chain. The program is also designed to prepare

attendees for the National Conference & Business Fair taking place June 25-27, 2013 in Minneapolis. By attending the

Summit, you have an advantage when you prepare for the Conference. We will feature:

› Information tracks focused on Building & Honing Skills, Leveraging Expertise, and Building Capacity. Attendees can

choose from a range of topics, and customize their experience according to their interests and business needs.

› Networking among top corporate and WBE companies in multiple innovative formats.

› Interactive panel discussions on: access to capital; strategic sourcing across industries; meeting the challenges of a

changing market; and other relevant issues.

For the third year, the Summit will feature WBENC’s Multi-Tier Opportunity Connection (formerly WBENC’s Multi-Tier

Dialogue & Opportunity Connection). This interactive session includes participating Corporate and Government Members,

who will be available in two simultaneous sessions to meet with WBENC-certified WBEs:

› A meet and greet session designed for WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) to introduce their

companies and products and/or services to participating Corporate and Government Members.

› An opportunity for WBENC-Certified WBEs to meet with Corporate and Government Members and their prime suppliers/

key business partners by appointment for short meetings to explore 1st, 2nd and 3rd level sourcing opportunities.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 17

WBENC-certified WBEs must be registered by January 24, 2013 to be eligible to

participate in the Multi-Tier sessions. To register, visit www.wbenc.org/summit-salute

after October 19.

The Women’s Business Enterprise Stars will collectively inspire you with

their amazing journeys that led them to this prestigious award. These 14

women have unique perspectives on how to grow a business and tackle

the many challenges along the way. You will be able to learn from them

“up close and personal” at the new Road to “Star”dom session. The

Stars, each selected by their respective Regional Partner Organization,

represent WBENC in a national capacity and have demonstrated

outstanding leadership in their industries as well as the communities

they serve.

Registration for the Summit & Salute opens on October 19 at

www.wbenc.org/summit-salute. Early bird registration is open until January 24, 2013.

Attending the Summit and Salute positions you to gain access to the knowledge, skills

and contacts that can help you grow professionally and contribute to the growth of

your business through high-profile keynote speakers, ground-breaking workshops

and the Multi-Tier Opportunity Connection, offering networking opportunities with

over 25 major corporations. Not only will corporate and government supplier diversity

and procurement representatives and/or their prime suppliers meet WBEs to forge or

expand supplier relationships, but WBEs will also have the chance to meet other WBEs

to explore how they can support each other as partners, clients and suppliers.

Summit & Salute sponsors have a strong presence throughout the two-day program

with a variety of recognition levels for the Summit and the Salute Gala dinner. The

deadline for sponsors to be eligible for inclusion in the Summit & Salute invitation

that is mailed to 20,000 corporations and WBEs is November 14, 2012. In addition to

sponsor benefits, sponsorship also supports WBENC, and our mission of advancing

the success of Corporate Members, certified women’s business enterprises (WBEs),

and government entities in partnership with its Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs).

Click here to view details on becoming a Summit & Salute sponsor. Learn how you can

gain tremendous visibility in front of a large, diverse audience consisting of Fortune

1000 representatives, government entities, nonprofit organizations and many women

business owners by contacting Paige Adams, Sr. Director of Development at

padams@wbenc.org.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

An exceptional networking opportunity for Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) with corporations and other WBEs. Discover best practice panels on key challenges facing WBEs and corporations with exciting guest speakers. Enjoy roundtable discussions between WBEs and corporations on opportunities for growth.

Join us for the Salute on the evening of March 14 when we will recognize our Top Corporations and 14 WBE Business Stars! The Top Corporations lead the nation in expanding opportunities for WBEs, and the Business Stars exemplify the use of strategic vision, business acumen, and sheer talent in meeting customers’ needs. You don’t want to miss meeting the best of the best.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

WBENC SUMMIT & SALUTE 2013Baltimore – The Hilton

MAR

CH 1

3-14

JUN

E 25

-27

Join more than 325 exhibitors and 3,000 women business owners, corporate procurement executives and federal contracting officers for one of the largest national conferences and business fairs targeting women business owners in the U.S.

CORPORATE CO-CHAIRS

WBE CO-CHAIRS

NATIONAL CONFERENCE AND BUSINESS FAIR 2013Minneapolis – The Hilton & Convention Center

www.wbenc.org/summit-salute

www.wbenc.org/wbencconf

1120 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 1000Washington, DC 20036-3092Ph: 202.872.5515 | Fx: 202.872.5505

www.wbenc.org

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook/wbenc

save these dates for the greatest nationwide networking opportunities for women-owned businesses

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 19

OPPORTUNITIES

TUCK-WBENC EXECUTIVE PROGRAM: TEN YEARS OF BUILDING WBE EXPERTISE

The Tuck-WBENC Executive Program, presented by IBM for the tenth year since its launch in 2003, was once again a great success in delivering world-class business education towards fueling Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) growth.

Held for the first time at the IBM Learning Center in Armonk, NY, the intensive weeklong event, from September 30 – October

5, attracted 51 WBENC-certified WBEs from across the country and a broad array of industries. The Tuck professors focused on the key components to success for WBEs who are beyond the start-up phase. These included a clear strategy for sustainability, optimal business processes and carefully nurtured client relationship management.

The WBEs who attended the class were inspired and invigorated by the faculty, the content and the ability to connect with other WBEs. Twyla Garrett, CEO and President of Investment Management Enterprise, Inc., commented “The Tuck-WBENC Executive Program was the most amazing and rewarding educational and networking experience I have had. As a business owner with 12 years under my belt, I thought I had the majority of the management, organizational, and leadership principles under control prior to my arrival. On day 1, I quickly realized that I needed this reality check not just for my business but for me personally.” Tuck is the nation’s oldest graduate school of business and is renowned for its collaborative learning approach. For example, to enhance the relevance of the experience, the course uses each WBE’s business as a case study. It is designed to prepare and challenge the business owners to think differently about how they approach and operate their businesses.

The program was successful in engaging the broader WBENC community as well. IBM sponsored five WBEs, three of which were selected by Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs). Other Corporate Members – including Chevron, Johnson & Johnson, Ernst & Young, Dell, AT&T and UPS – sponsored an additional 15 WBEs. Additionally, WBENC itself awarded 28 WBEs with Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarships to fund their educational experience.

“ WBENC is proud that we could all join together to support WBE development and growth during this extraordinary week,” said Pamela Prince-Eason, President & CEO of WBENC. “We can make a difference in helping WBEs increase their performance, contribute to the economy and add jobs.”

Another first took place when WBENC Board Chair Laura Taylor spent time at the event, hosting a “Fireside Chat” discussing the challenges facing WBEs. Taylor also updated the class on the strategic plan for WBENC. She dined with the class, taking the opportunity to meet with many of the WBEs one on one and address their questions.

IBM executives were also present in force, including Patrice Knight, VP Integrated Supply Chain; Michael K. Robinson, Global Supplier Diversity Program Director; Sherry A. Robison, Supplier Diversity Program Manager, IBM Global Procurement; Denise C. Evans, Vice President, Market Development, and Chia Chi, Marketing Manager at IBM. Jamie Hewitt, VP, Service Product Transformation, was the keynote speaker on Thursday evening. She spoke candidly about her career, work/life balance, the changing culture of IBM and answered many questions from the class on a broad range of topics.

IBM has been the presenting sponsor since the program’s inception in 2003 and is committed through 2015. Over 600 WBEs have been able to take part in this exceptional educational experience over the years. Kittie Watson, President of Innolect, Inc. summed up her experience: “The first question others asked on my return was: “Was the Tuck-WBENC Program worth the investment of your time?” Without hesitation, I enthusiastically said, “YES!” Now, I understand why so many WBE friends encouraged me to apply and attend. For WBEs who haven’t attended, make the time, invest in yourself and apply to attend in 2013. You and your business will benefit in ways you never imagined.”

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

OPPORTUNITIES

DOROTHY B. BROTHERS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The late Dorothy B. Brothers, former supplier diversity executive and WBENC Board Member, made a significant contribution to WBE growth by designing a scholarship program that would position WBEs to compete successfully for Fortune 500 business.

Today the program plays a key role in expanding the capacity and enhancing the sophistication of established women’s businesses enterprises. By providing annual scholarships of up to $11,000 in tuition, the Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarships enable women leaders to close the gap between their abilities and the increasingly complex needs of their clients.

This year Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarships were awarded to a total of 37 WBEs. As reported in this issue, the scholarships enabled 28 WBEs to asttend the Tuck-WBENC Executive Education program presented by IBM. The Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarships will also fund WBE attendance in nine other education programs.

To qualify, a WBE must have run a business for three to five years, employ at least three full-time employees and maintain a minimum $500,000 in annual sales or revenues.

“The Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship keeps the spirit of an important leader and mentor alive by continually expanding opportunities for WBEs,” said WBENC President and CEO Pamela Prince-Eason. “We thank the scholarship selection committee for their diligence and hard work in selecting WBE scholarship recipients.”

BJ Pfeiffer, CEO of Enterprise Solutions Technology Group, used her Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship to attend the Harvard Business School Executive Education Program, “Leading Professional Service Firms” Pfeiffer was among the 24 women who took part in the class of 180 students. After a week of total immersion, she experienced a “huge perception shift. It was a chance to think deeply about my business that I had never afforded myself,” she said. Pfeiffer’s attendance at this program was funded by her Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship.

“ After returning to my office, I immediately started analyzing internal systems and now take the time to think about alignment in all aspects of my business and my life” she said. “This experience has helped me see my world through a different lens. I am anxiously waiting to see the results of the new practices.”

In addition to the Tuck-WBENC Executive program presented by IBM, the scholarship can apply to a range of top tier executive education programs, including but not limited to: › Berkeley Center for Executive Development,

University of California at Berkeley› Darden Graduate School of Business Administration,

University of Virginia› Kellogg Graduate School of Management,

Northwestern University› Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University› Harvard Business School› McCombs School of Business, University of Texas› University of Southern California› University of California at Los Angeles› Marshall School of Business, University of

Southern California› Hass School of Business, University of California

at Berkeley

This scholarship program provides women business owners access to the same high caliber management education that is available to Fortune 500 Companies and a framework to enable WBEs to formulate and implement business strategies and achieve a competitive advantage.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 21

OPPORTUNITIES

ENTERPRISING WOMEN OF THE YEAR AWARD CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Enterprising Women magazine opened nominations for its 2013 Enterprising Women of the Year Award on October 1st - on its website. Nominations for the 2013 award will close at midnight Friday, November 30, 2012.

The annual Enterprising Women of the Year Award, which recognizes the finest women entrepreneurs in North America

and around the globe, is a prestigious recognition program for women business owners.

The 11th Annual Enterprising Women of the Year Awards Celebration will be held April 3-4, 2013 in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The 2013 award winners and honorable mention recipients will be celebrated at the April 4 Enterprising Women of the Year

Awards Gala Dinner. They also will be profiled in the special Spring 2013 commemorative awards issue of Enterprising

Women magazine.

If you have not previously won the Enterprising Women of the Year Award, consider using the nomination form at

www.enterprisingwomen.com to nominate yourself or someone you know. Businesswomen are eligible to apply for the

award if they have been in business at least three years and meet any of the following criteria:

› their company is at least 51% owned and managed by a woman;

› they are a woman who owns, manages and controls the business with a partner, and they own at least 33% of the

business; or

› they are a woman entrepreneur who leads a company that has obtained venture capital and, as a result, they now hold

an equity position of less than 51% in their company.

Nominees will be judged based upon: 1) the revenue growth of their company; 2) the leadership they have exhibited in

their local communities and/or at the state, national or international levels; and 3) the ways in which they have given

back to the women’s business community by mentoring or supporting other women in business.

Nominees may enter in one of five categories, based upon their projected 2012 revenues:

› businesses with up to $1 million in annual revenues;

› businesses with more than $1 million and up to $5 million in annual revenues;

› businesses with more than $5 million and up to $10 million in annual revenues;

› businesses with more than $10 million and up to $25 million in annual revenues; and

› businesses with more than $25 million in annual revenues.

Spread the word about this prestigious recognition program for deserving women entrepreneurs.

For details, visit their website at www.enterprisingwomen.com.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

OPPORTUNITIES

JOHNSON CONTROLS: CAPTURING THE ROI OF DRIVING WOMEN’S BUSINESS ENTERPRISES

At Johnson Controls, the commitment to driving growth in women’s businesses and other diverse suppliers is delivered from the top of the organization by the Chairman and CEO Stephen A. Roell and advanced by the company’s Supplier Diversity & Business Development team. Like many of its major corporate customers, Johnson Controls proactively supports the business case for contracting with women-owned businesses and other diverse suppliers.

Johnson Controls has taken the diversity value proposition a quantum leap further.

Under the direction of Reginald K. Layton, Supplier Diversity & Business Development

Executive Director, Johnson Controls has devised a comprehensive and granular

system for measuring the contribution of supplier diversity to the prosperity of the

company itself and the community beyond.

To accomplish this, he takes two distinct approaches – measuring Impact and Returns

– that decisively quantify how supplier diversity makes a difference to Johnson Controls

internally and externally. The key, Layton pointed out, is knowing what to measure.

› Impact. This measures a “change in state” of a company or community metric

attributable to Johnson Controls’ supplier diversity activity. For example, this

includes standard data such as the increase in the number of WBEs or diverse

suppliers on a Tier One and Tier Two basis, and the increase in the employee

count of diverse firms by state over time.

Indeed, the company looks more deeply to find the increase in jobs that its

contracts have generated among diverse suppliers, and the income they

have produced for those workers. This information is extremely valuable to

public officials interested in the impact of supplier diversity programs on their

constituents. For a company like Johnson Controls, which works in federal,

state and local markets, measuring impact provides a competitive advantage.

Among its other commercial customers, providing impact results reinforces

the company’s intention to become the recognized company of choice among

stakeholders for achievements in employee and supplier diversity, community

and government engagement and sustainability.

Reginald K. LaytonSupplier Diversity & Business Development Executive Director Johnson Controls

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 23

› Returns on Investment. This requires a more incisive look into the role that supplier diversity has in driving the

revenues a company can generate, the costs it can save and the benefits that can accrue externally to its

brand reputation.

Measurement tools for ROI are designed to capture the effect of client behavior and attitude on results. To do this,

Layton has embedded measurement instruments – or “Surveillance Systems” in existing sales management and

purchasing tracking tools to make the data extraction easy and cost-effective.

For example, by adding a question that a sales person asks the client – “Is it important to you that we contract with women-owned businesses and other diverse suppliers for your project?” – Johnson Controls can track the number of customers for whom this is an important consideration. It can then also know when supplier diversity has played a role in generating the revenue that flowed from that decision.

The company also looks at costs – both the costs saved by using women-owned businesses or other diverse suppliers

– and also the costs incurred in the supplier diversity program. These include salaries, outreach expenses and time –

extending to hours devoted to diverse business association board meetings, events and travel. This helps the company

assess how well it has been able to meet the customer’s expectations for diverse procurement practices without

sacrificing Johnson Control’s profits or increasing its costs.

Layton also looks at other returns, such as the effect of national recognition (the visibility of Johnson Controls in

nationally acclaimed organizations such as WBENC) on the purchasing decisions of its customers.

All of these factors contribute to the overall ROI Calculation of Johnson Controls’ advancement of supplier diversity

over a 15-year period.

Layton pointed out that metrics are set every year by the supplier diversity team because they are continually seeking new

ways to gauge the benefits of working with women-owned businesses and other diverse suppliers.

Layton, who has a Master’s Degree in Economics from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, shared this approach so that other companies can discover ways to measure their benefits of working with women’s businesses. He says, “You have more data than you think. You need less data than you think. And the analysis is simpler than you might think.”

More About Johnson Controls

Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving

customers in more than 150 countries. Its 162,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize

energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and

electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. It currently has more than 400 diverse suppliers representing more

than 50 product and service categories and more than $1.8 billion in purchases from diverse firms.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

http://www.thedwgroup.com/wbenclegacy/

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 25

RECOGNITION

2013 WOMEN’S BUSINESS ENTERPRISE STARS ANNOUNCED!

The 2013 WBE Stars represent an elite cadre of leaders, both in their industry and their communities. These businesswomen inspire their employees, peers and clients with their tireless dedication to excellence in every facet of their lives. WBE Stars are driven, innovative leaders that are helping to rebuild and sustain a stronger economy for our country. You will learn more about these 14 exceptional women at the 2013 Summit & Salute to Women’s Business Enterprises in March, including an opportunity to meet and learn from them in the new “Road to Stardom” workshop.

› Diana Clemente, President, Big Apple Car, Inc.

Women Presidents’ Educational Organization - NY

› Ana Cristina Didonde, President,

CD Language Solutions, Inc.

Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance

› Jamie Fletcher, CEO, Mach 1 Global Services, Inc.

Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West

› Theresa Ghafari, President, G-TECH Services, Inc.

Women’s Business Enterprise Council-Great Lakes

› Bev Gray, President, Exhibit Edge, Inc.

Women Presidents’ Educational Organization - DC

› Arlene Inch, Chairman, Trans-Pak, Inc.

Astra Women’s Business Alliance

› Keeli Jernigan, CEO & President, Trans-Expedite, Inc.

Women’s Business Council Southwest

› Joyce Landry, CEO, Landry & Kling, Inc.

Women’s Business Development Council of Florida

› Judith Malloy, Managing Partner, Polaris Direct

Center for Women & Enterprise

› Heather Sanderson, President, Overture Premiums &

Promotions, LLC

Women’s Business Development Center-Chicago

› Mary Singer, President, CRG Sustainable Solutions &

Commercial Realty Group

Women’s Business Enterprise Council-South

› Cindy Towers, CEO, JurisSolutions, Inc.

Women’s Business Enterprise Council-PA,DE,sNJ

› Geraldine Walker, President, Walker Transfer, Inc.

Ohio River Valley Women’s Business Council

› Traci Williams, President & CEO,

Crescent Construction Services, LLC

Greater Women’s Business Council

WBENC PROUDLY PRESENTS THE 14 STARS NOMINATED BY THEIR RESPECTIVE REGIONAL PARTNER ORGANIZATION:

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR 2013 WBE STARS!!

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

WOMEN ON WELLNESS

BREAST HEALTH - AWARENESS & PREVENTION

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All of us know someone who has had breast cancer or a survivor or who has lost a love one to this disease. The message about breast health is very clear: perform self-exams monthly and get a mammogram to screen yourself to prevent this disease or detect it as early as possible. The good news is that with early detection and treatment, the five-year survival rate is over 82%. If you would like more information on how to perform a self-exam, click here.

KNOW THE FACTS

› Doctors will diagnose approximately 290,170 new cases of breast cancer in 2012.

› This includes 2,190 cases of invasive breast cancer for men.

› Each year 39,510 women and 450 men will die of breast cancer.

› There is an over 90% survival rate when breast cancer is detected in its earliest stages.

› Early detection of breast cancer by mammography reduces the risk of dying from breast cancer.

› About one in eight U.S. women (just under 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the

course of her lifetime.

› About 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer.

KNOW THE RISKS

Over 70% of breast cancer cases occur in women who have no identifiable risk factors.

Every woman is at risk for breast cancer, and the risk factors include:› Gender: Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer. This is due to the fact that

female breast cells are constantly exposed to the growth-promoting effects of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Although rare, men do also get breast cancer. For more information, click here.

› Age: Your risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older.› Genetic Risk Factors: Having an inherited mutation in BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 genes may increase your risk to

as high as 80%› Family History: Having a first degree relative (mother, sister or daughter) with breast cancer approximately doubles a

woman’s risk, and having two first degree relatives with breast cancer will increased her risk five times.› Personal History of Breast Cancer: A woman with cancer in one breast has a three-to four-fold increased risk of

developing a new cancer in the other breast or in another part of the same breast. This is different from a recurrence (return) of the first cancer.

› Race and Ethnicity: White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer than are African American women; however, African-American women are more likely to die of breast cancer. At least part of this seems to be due to the fact that African-American women tend to have more aggressive tumors. Asian, Hispanic and Native-American women have a lower risk of developing and dying from breast cancer.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 27

› Dense Breast Tissue: Women with denser breast tissue (as seen on a mammogram) have more glandular tissue and less fatty tissue, and have a higher risk of breast cancer. Unfortunately, dense breast tissue can also make it harder for doctors to spot problems on mammograms.

› Menstrual Periods: Women with a long menstrual life, uninterrupted by pregnancy, (starting menstruation at an early age, before 12, or went through menopause at a late age, after 50) have a slightly higher risk for breast cancer. This may be related to a higher lifetime exposure to the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

› Previous Chest Radiation: Women who, as children or young adults, had radiation therapy to the chest area as treatment for another cancer (such as Hodgkin disease or non-Hodgkin lymphoma) are at significantly increased risk for breast cancer. This varies with the patient’s age when they had radiation. If chemotherapy was also given, it may have stopped ovarian hormone production for some time, lowering the risk. The risk of developing breast cancer from chest radiation is highest if the radiation was given during adolescence, when the breasts were still developing. Radiation treatment after age 40 does not seem to increase breast cancer risk.

› Not having children, or having them later in life: Women who have had no children or who had their first child after age 30 have a slightly higher breast cancer risk. Having many pregnancies and becoming pregnant at a young age reduce breast cancer risk. Pregnancy reduces a woman’s total number of lifetime menstrual cycles, which may be the reason for this effect.

› Recent Oral Contraceptive Use: Studies have found that women using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) have a slightly greater risk of breast cancer than women who have never used them. This risk seems to decline back to normal over time once the pills are stopped. Women who stopped using oral contraceptives more than 10 years ago do not appear to have any increased breast cancer risk. When thinking about using oral contraceptives, women should discuss their other risk factors for breast cancer with their health care team.

› ERT: The long term use of estrogen replacement therapy has shown a slight increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer in some studies. Within five years of stopping ERT this risk is reduced to that of the general population.

HOW YOUNG DO WOMEN GET BREAST CANCER?Despite widespread opinion that young women don’t get breast cancer, the reality is that they can and do. In fact, one in every 229 women between the ages of 30 and 39 will be diagnosed with breast cancer within the next 10 years.

The good news is that with early detection and treatment, the five-year survival rate is over 82%. That’s four out of five who survive.

Because breast cancer in younger patients is less common, many of these women face delayed diagnosis. Often she is told by her health care provider that she is “too young” to have breast cancer, and diagnostic tests are not recommended as quickly as for older patients. About 80% of younger women find the breast cancer themselves. Armed with basic knowledge of breast cancer, how to examine her own breasts and the awareness of what is normal for her body, a young woman can intelligently advocate for the testing she needs. Each of us should educate the younger women in our lives about the importance of being proactive about their breast health and self exams.

Take care of yourself, perform self-exams, monthly, and commit to living a healthy lifestyle by doing some form of physical activity 30 minutes daily, eat a healthy diet so you can protect yourself from this devastating disease.

We are all in this together, we are all at risk, but reminding each other to take care of our breasts is the best prevention money can buy!

Resources: Mayo Clinic; Center for Disease Control; National Breast Cancer Society; National Cancer Society; American Cancer Society; The American Breast Cancer Foundation provides financial assistance for breast cancer screenings and diagnostic tests for uninsured and underserved individuals, regardless of age or gender.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » OCTOBER EDITION 2012 » 29

Most people have long lists of

accolades that define their life’s

successes. For Harris, it is quite

the opposite, her successes

have been a result of fortuitous

introductions, dreaming big

with the ability to make ideas

happen and a willingness to try

new things. Her love of food and

wine directly stem from naive

gumption, charm and a desire

to learn, all of which led her to her first wine experience at

Haut Brion, then to living with France’s most famed cheese

making family and to a cooking internship under the wings

of Amat, a famous 2 star chef in Bordeaux, her first fine

culinary experience.

Harris has had the desire to be in the wine industry for

decades, but her journey to Napa Valley has been like

taking windy back roads more than efficient toll roads.

She spent many years working in executive positions in

publishing (Managing Director of the Miller Freedman’s

International Division), advertising (president of an ad

agency, Transphere), and technology (VP of Sales of Inktomi,

an internet search engine startup). Her success in business

allowed Harris to trade computers for vineyards.

In 1998, Harris, along with her husband, started Rarecat

Wines in Napa Valley. “Creating wine is so much more than

cultivating and bottling fruit. It really is a passion, a passion

that drives us to create something rare and exquisite,

something elusive, but something that once discovered

remains with you forever. This was the genesis for Rarecat.”

This eloquently stated vision for her winery perfectly sums

up her love of wine making.

Recently, she graduated with honors from the Universite

de Bordeaux’s famed D.U.A.D. program, a technical

oenology diploma taught in French. Harris lives in Napa

Valley full time and has two teenage boys. Her passion is

empowering women through wine and supporting women

in the wine industry. Harris is co-owner of Amici Cellars in

Calistoga, which has a new tasting room open to the public

by appointment. Amici Cellars, named for the friendship of

the co-owners, makes small production wines known for

their great quality and value. In 2007 Harris formed “Wine

Entre Femme,” a consortium of quality-minded, remarkable

female winemakers and winery owners from around the

world. The group meets annually, holding three to four days

of workshops, seminars and tours covering winemaking,

vineyard management, comparative tastings and marketing.

Recently, she launched A Woman’s Palate, a company that

celebrates wines by women for women, which developed

an exclusive wine club for WBENC. You can get more

information, join A Woman’s Palate Wine Club, and start

enjoying some lovely wines at: www.awomanspalate.com/

WBENC.

Next month in the President’s Report look for the “Wine of the Month” review - brought to you by A Woman’s Palate Wine Club exclusive to WBENC.

A WOMEN’S PALATE WINEMAKER PROFILE: SHARON HARRIS

Sharon Harris fell in love with wine in Bordeaux when she was 20 years old, obsessed with speaking French and living abroad. Although Bordeaux was not her location of choice for her studies, fate intervened and that is where she not only studied French, but gained her appreciation for fine food and wine and the joie de vivre one gets from sharing those things with friends.