S.H.E. Week is back to engage, connect and inspire! Now in its fourth year and nationally recognized, this initiative is spearheaded by the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee and is anchored around Women’s Equality Day. Held August 22-26th, the program is designed to empower, develop and promote opportunities for all women throughout Frederick County.
S.H.E. Week has seen exciting growth and momentum since its launch in 2019 to a sold out crowd. In 2021, the event series earned a national Award of Excellence from ACCE and in 2022, inspired a sister celebration in Fayetteville, North Carolina dubbed HER Fayetteville. Past notables who have participated in S.H.E. Week include First Lady of Maryland Yumi Hogan, four-time Olympic medal winning gymnast and entrepreneur Dominique Dawes and County Executive Jan Gardner.
The theme for this year is IGNITE, inviting attendees to “find their fire” both personally and professionally. S.H.E. Week participation is the opportunity to attend three events including a full conference day of learning and inspiration, followed by the SHE Pitch Competition and the SHEROS Awards and closing celebration. Registration opens August 1st. Visit SheWeek.org for more information on attendance, events and sponsorship opportunities.
CONFERENCE DAY | The Arc at Market Street
S.H.E. Week kicks off with a full conference day filled with inspiration and education from influential leaders in the region. From networking opportunities to keynote speakers, enlightening workshops and inspiring panelists, there is something sure to appeal to all attendees no matter their age or professional accomplishments.
SHE PITCH COMPETITION | Hood College Hodson Theater
SHE Pitch is a pitch competition for female entrepreneurs - designed to give businesses both in the “idea stage” and “growth stage” cash prizes, publicity and networking opportunities. Finalists for the SHE Pitch Competition will pitch their business to a live audience and panel of judges on Wednesday, August 24th. Audience members will not only get the opportunity to cheer on the entrepreneurs but also cast their vote for a People’s Choice Award. Winners will be announced and awarded that evening!
SHERO AWARDS & CLOSING RECEPTION | Catoctin Hall at Musket Ridge
This reception is the final celebration of the week spotlighting SHERO Award winners and allowing attendees one more opportunity to connect! The SHERO Awards were established to celebrate and shine a light on individuals who make an impact in the community by demonstrating extraordinary care for others, leading change or triumphing over adversity. The awards are rooted in the three characteristics of S.H.E. Week; strength, heart and equality.