Women's Economic Opportunity Conference

Senator Leahy has proudly hosted the Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference (WEOC) for more than 20 years.  Each year this highly anticipated event brings together hundreds of Vermont women for a full day of workshops and presentations on how to navigate workplaces, grow businesses and succeed in a modern economy.

Since 2017 WEOC has partnered with Change The Story VT, an initiative to make sure that policy, programs and philanthropy are working together to improve women’s economic status in Vermont.  This natural alliance has allowed WEOC to offer more workshops and reach more women across the state.  The first year of this partnership alone yielded workshops from how to negotiate higher salaries, to being mindful while leading companies.

This conference supports and encourages women wherever they are in their careers, with resources and workshops for women at all stages of professional and personal development.  Whether networking to find a job, navigating a difficult workplace or launching a home business, WEOC has a workshop to help out.

Each year the conference features a keynote address where speakers offer personal stories and life lessons to motivate and inspire.  Past keynote speakers include Mary Alice McKenzie, Former U.S. Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch, VPR’s Jane Lindholm, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and equal pay activist Lilly Ledbetter.

“The talented speakers and enlightening workshops at the Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference reflect the depth of talent, professionalism and entrepreneurial spirit of women in our great state,” Senator Leahy said.  “Vermont has made significant progress encouraging female entrepreneurs, but we cannot turn back the clock.  I am proud to encourage the continued growth of women-led businesses and the success of female professionals.”

Protect Your Family's Money from Scammers and Fraudsters will be presented by Victoria Lloyd.  Victoria Lloyd, Esq. is the founder and principal of Athena Advocacy, which focuses on providing guardianship, fiduciary, and care advocacy services. She leads a team serving clients throughout New England with individually tailored services. Victoria is also called upon to provide training on financial exploitation for private sector entities, law enforcement, and public agencies. Ms. Lloyd founded and has chaired FAST (Financial Abuse Specialist Team) of Vermont since 2012. 

The conference is held at the Vermont Technical College in Randolph and is offered at no charge for registration or lunch.