Rockland Business Women's Network Celebrates 45 Years of Empowering Women in Rockland County

The Rockland Business Women’s Network (RBWN) is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2024. The dynamic and inclusive non-profit organization is marking its accomplishment with a series of celebratory events, educational offerings, and professional development initiatives throughout the year for its members and the wider community.

RBWN was founded on the principles of collaboration, support, and the belief that when women come together, incredible things happen. Since its founding in 1979, RBWN has evolved to become the region’s leading organization for women, with over 100 members representing diverse professions, backgrounds, and experiences.

The highlight of RBWN’s 45th year is launching a new program designed to support professional women in transition in furthering their careers. RBWN is honored to partner with The Workforce Development Board of Rockland County, Rockland Works, and Rockland Community College for this new program.

“As a non-profit organization that supports professional women in Rockland County, we felt that we wanted to address the urgent need for women employees and business owners to have strong essential skills such as communication, leadership, self-advocacy, financial literacy, and self-care,” said Jill Cruz, President of Rockland Business Women’s Network.

The program’s goal is to support women struggling to find high-quality employment opportunities, accelerate their careers, or start or develop a business. RBWN will invite its members and others in our community to get involved and help make this program successful.

Other upcoming RBWN 45th anniversary initiatives include:

Monthly events: RBWN will host regular events, workshops, and seminars to facilitate meaningful connections among members. These gatherings create a supportive environment where women can exchange ideas, share experiences, and forge valuable business relationships. The year kicked off with the “Finance, Tech, AI Trends and Resources for 2024” event on January 10, where an expert panel shared insights for what’s on the horizon. On February 14, RBWN is featuring Experiential Marketer, Correspondent and Host Qui Joacin exploring the topic “Successful Selling Starts With YOU! Understanding and Developing Your Value”.

Community engagement: RBWN believes in giving back to the community. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the network is actively involved in philanthropic efforts that positively impact the Rockland County area, including the RBWN Women’s Professional Development and Scholarship Fund, which has donated over $50,000 to support local students with college scholarships and training and professional development opportunities for members.

Women of Achievement luncheon: RBWN’s annual Women of Achievement luncheon is on Thursday, June 6. This year, RBWN is honoring the contributions and achievements of Dr. Jacqueline Cassagnol, PhD, MSN, RN, PMC, Founder and President of Worldwide Community First Responder, Inc., and Brooke Malloy, Executive Director of The Phyllis B. Frank Pride Center of Rockland County. RBWN is awarding its Service Woman of the Year Award to Bonnie Werk, Vice President of TD Bank.

“At RBWN, we are truly honored to be continuing the legacy of this wonderful organization,” said Jill Cruz, President of Rockland Business Women’s Network. “As we persist in our mission of empowering women in 2024 and beyond and celebrate our 45 years, RBWN welcomes women from all walks of life to join us, whether they are seasoned professionals, budding entrepreneurs, students building professional connections, or women exploring new career paths.”

For more information about RBWN’s 45th anniversary, upcoming events, and membership details, please visit RBWN.org.