Online registration link

State Sen. Patty Ritchie, along with other local leaders, is inviting Central and Northern New Yorkers to attend “Ladies Who Lead,” taking place at 5 p.m. June 28 in the Marano Campus Center auditorium. It will feature a keynote address by SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher as well as a panel discussion with local women at the top of their fields, including SUNY Oswego President Deborah F. Stanley.

The evening will begin with Zimpher’s address, followed by the discussion among Chancellor Zimpher, President Stanley, Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization Executive Director Denise Young, State Supreme Court Justice Mary Farley, and CNY Central meteorologist and 2015 SUNY Oswego graduate Molly Matott.

The event is sponsored by the Upstate Women’s Leadership Council, a group formed last year that is led by Ritchie along with Rep. Elise Stefanik and former Jefferson County District Attorney Cindy Intschert. The group aims to increase opportunities for the personal and professional advancement of women throughout the Central and Northern New York regions.

“As president of SUNY Oswego, I couldn’t be more proud to host the Upstate Women’s Leadership Council event on our campus,” said Stanley. “I am looking forward to welcoming women from throughout our region to the college in an effort to celebrate our collective achievements, share advice and help one another foster career connections.”

During the event, local women nominated for their leadership—including young women from throughout area high schools—will be honored.

“Our region is filled with women who have shattered glass ceilings and have tremendous potential to do even more,” said Ritchie. “Over the past year, the UWLC has worked to help women build the bridges needed to achieve success, and this upcoming event is just one more way we are encouraging people to share their knowledge, experience and skills to boost each other to even greater heights.”

Chancellor Zimpher said, “I am proud to be a part of this important event and commend Senator Ritchie and President Stanley for bringing us all together.” She also said, “The Upstate Women’s Leadership Council is an incredible asset for women who seek to further their professional careers, providing women with the tools they need to excel in leadership roles and connecting them with successful mentors.”

Those who plan to attend the event are encouraged to pre-register on Sen. Ritchie’s website, www.ritchie.nysenate.gov, or by calling (315) 782-3418. Parking for the event will be available in campus lots C-8 East and West.