Sheri Franza, Rockwall EDC president, speaks at Texas Women in Economic Development Conference

‘Power of the Purse’ initiative provides handbags for women’s shelter

(ROCKWALL, TX – April 25, 2016) Sheri Franza, President and CEO of Rockwall Economic Development Corporation, was among the expert guest panelists to speak at the “See Jane Run 2016” Texas Women in Economic Development Conference April 19-20.

The annual event, which was presented by the Texas Economic Development Council at the Magnolia Hotel in Dallas, brings together professional women in the field of economic development to learn from experts, share their knowledge and network with peers.

Joining Franza on the Economic Development Practitioners Panel were Sally Bane, Executive Director of Plano EDC, and Dawn Steil, Assistant Vice President of Terrell EDC. Moderated by Lorie Vincent, Executive Director of Team Texas, the panel of accomplished female leaders, aka “Super Janes,” talked about lessons they’ve learned, strategies for success, and tips of the trade.

“It is such an honor to speak to such a powerful group of women and to share my experience in economic development,” said Franza.  “These professional leaders are dedicated to the progressive development in their individual cites, but we all work together creating a strong coalition which leads economic development in the State of Texas.”

Keynote speakers at the event included Jackie Huba, best-selling author and TEDx Speaker; Robin Roberts Krieger, Vice President of Business and Industry Training & Economic Development, Oklahoma State University; Donna Lipman, Executive Presentations Coach; and Alysia Cook, PCED, IOM, Principal, Opportunity Strategies, LLC.  Attendees also participated in Roundtable Discussions that covered everything from Best Practices, Social Media, and Time Management to Relationship Building and Career and Professional Development.

As part of the conference’s “Power of the Purse” initiative, EDC professionals were asked to bring a gently used purse – or items to go in the purse – to be donated to a local woman’s shelter. More than 170 purses were collected, and on the final day of the conference, they were delivered to the shelter to help women in need gain back their “Super Jane” power.

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