After two successful years, Commerce Chenango and the Chenango Foundation are thrilled to announce that registration is open for the third annual Chenango Women’s Leadership Conference. To register visit www.commercechenango.com. For group seating options, please contact sroot@chenangony.org. Picture from last year's event. (Photo by Sophia Root)

By Sophia Root

Commerce Chenango

CHENANGO COUNTY - After two successful years, Commerce Chenango and the Chenango Foundation are thrilled to announce that registration is open for the third annual Chenango Women’s Leadership Conference.

Attendees will enjoy a day with women in all stages of life and career. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, the Chenango Women's Leadership Conference is the perfect platform to learn, grow, and empower yourself.

This year’s event will be hosted at DCMO BOCES, Alan D. Pole Campus in Norwich on March 16, 2026.

Registration starts sharply at 8 a.m. This venue is new to the conference and can seat more than 300 participants, increasing access for community attendance.

The event will start with a keynote presentation by Ruth Mahoney, Executive Vice President of NBT Bank and President of NBT Wealth Management.

Building off the success of last year’s event, the planning committee has added informational break-out sessions to the regularly scheduled keynote presentation and panel discussions. This gives the attendees an option to break into separate cohorts and choose to attend an informational session on one of the following topics: How to Gain Financial Independence, How to Build a Network, How to Breathe, Balance and Lead, and How to Become an Entrepreneur.

Each of these breakout sessions is hosted by local leaders, such as Hilary Wilcox of Visions Federal Credit Union, Amy Sherwood of NBT Bank, Melissa Stagnaro of UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, Melissa Beers of Teasers/Deja Brew, and Karri Beckwith of Bull Thistle Bridal.

The day continues with three moderated panel discussions: Leading in all Aspects of Life, Leading in the Community, and Leading with Self-Care. Each of these panels is stacked with inspiring women from Chenango County. In addition, Allison O’Neill from UHS Therapies Norwich/SECO will reprise her popular guided movement session.

In the spirit of women supporting women, the Chenango Foundation is collecting donations for two local nonprofits that directly serve women in our community: Aunt Mary's House and Catholic Charities.

Attendees are encouraged to bring items such as gift cards (Amazon, Lowe's, Curtis Lumber, Walmart), paper products (toilet paper, paper towels, napkins), and toiletries (feminine hygiene products, shampoo, soap, toothpaste). These donations will support both the upkeep of Aunt Mary's House and Catholic Charities' outreach to the local homeless population.

Early bird pricing for this event is live now, learn more and register at the events calendar at www.commercechenango.com. Pricing is currently set at $75/attendee but will increase to $90/attendee on February 16th, 2026. For group seating options, please contact sroot@chenangony.org.