MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is preparing to host its annual Women’s Conference next month, bringing together hundreds of women from across the region for a day focused on leadership, professional growth and networking.
The event is scheduled for June 2 at the 1861 Club on the Kansas State Fairgrounds, running from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Organizers say the conference has continued to grow over the years, prompting a move from its original location at the Burt to accommodate larger crowds. Attendance is expected to range between 350 and 400 women representing businesses and organizations across Hutchinson and Reno County.
This year’s keynote speaker is Nicole Galleon, a Sterling native and Nashville-based songwriter. Chamber president Debra Teufel says Galleon will share her experiences breaking into the music industry, along with insights from her career. Her presentation may also include live or original music.
Additional featured speakers include leadership coach Audra Danelle and local educator and Executive Director of First Call for Help, Dr Marilyn Graham.
Lily Wu, the mayor of Wichita, is also scheduled to speak. Teufel said her presentation will focus on her professional journey, including her background in journalism and her experience as one of the first Asian women to serve as a mayor in Kansas.
The Chamber says the conference is designed to foster connection, encourage leadership development and provide practical takeaways for women in business and the workforce.
Registration information is available through the Chamber, and organizers anticipate another near-capacity turnout for the annual event.