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Women's Business Center Honored with the Polaris Connections Award: Tickets Available

October 18, 2021
Submitted By: Shelli McMillen
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The "Polaris Awards" is Leadership Greater Hartford's(LGH) signature fundraising event, honoring exemplary leaders who serve as guiding lights in the region. On Thursday, Oct. 28, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., they will honor the University of Hartford's Women's Business Center (WBC) team with the Connections Award, in recognition of the Women of Color in Business Series.

During the summer of 2020, the staff at the Women's Business Center wanted to take action in support of racial justice efforts. Darchelle Hutchins, Client Services Administrator, came up with the idea to create a new series for women entrepreneurs of color to discuss diverse perspectives about the path to business ownership. A team was formed to develop the series, and Darchelle was joined by Milena Erwin, WBC Program Manager, Elaine Thomas-Williams, Business Advisor, and Shelli McMillen, Marketing Manager. They offered the first panel in September 2020, which featured an open and honest discussion about the struggles and biases Black women have encountered, as well as the support and motivation that kept each panelist persisting towards success. The new series, founded upon the passion and persistence of women entrepreneurs of color, meets quarterly and endeavors to create community while promoting all women in business towards their dreams.

Enjoy a radio interview about the series and award, featuring Darchelle and Milena: Click here 

The virtual program will be emceed by LGH dream team: Rosaida Morales Rosario, LGH Board Member and President of Rosario & Associates, and Andre Santiago, LGH Vice President for Programs. Tickets are $75 and include a catered happy hour appetizer and beverage box provided by the Chrysalis Center's La Cocina Catering. All proceeds from Polaris support the LGH mission to develop, connect, and inspire diverse leaders to build strong and vibrant communities.

Register here.