Pennsylvania Commission for Women Announces Women's Mentorship Symposium in Pittsburgh

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 4, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Commission for Women today announced that it will host the Women's Mentorship Symposium: "Paying It Forward" on Sept. 30, 2014, at the Westin Convention Center Hotel in Pittsburgh. 

The half-day event will highlight the significant role of mentorship on women's personal and professional success.  It will include professional development opportunities and a keynote luncheon, featuring Lori Greiner, the "warm blooded shark"™ on the hit entrepreneurial business show "Shark Tank" on ABC.

"Whether it is offering feedback and advice, or introducing a new career opportunity, mentors can have a tremendous impact on women's growth and success," said Sue Schick, Chair of the Pennsylvania Commission for Women.  "We established this event to create a positive atmosphere for women to support one another, build relationships, and make meaningful connections.  It is part of our ongoing commitment to empowering and advancing women across Pennsylvania."

As part of the event, three finalists from the NAWBO PA Business Plan Competition will present fast-pitch business plans to a panel of three judges, including: Lori Greiner; Julia Hearthway, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry; and Renee Amoore, Founder and President of The Amoore Group, Inc.  The winner of the competition will receive a $10,000 cash prize to support the implementation of their business plan.

Additionally, a Speed Mentoring program will provide women with an opportunity to interact in a fast-paced, structured setting to discuss topics such as work-life balance, career transition, and salary negotiation.  Senior level women in a variety of professional fields will serve as mentors for the program.

The symposium is being presented through the generous financial support of co-presenting sponsors UnitedHealthcare and UPMC Health Plan, as well as numerous community partners.

For additional information on the Women's Mentorship Symposium and to register, please visit www.pa.gov/commissionforwomen or call 717-787-1965.

The Pennsylvania Commission for Women is the commonwealth's official advocate agency for women.  Its mission is to identify and advance the diverse needs and interests of Pennsylvania's women and girls; to inform, educate and advocate for its constituents; and to provide opportunities to empower women and girls to reach their highest potential. The work of the commission is focused primarily in the areas of economic development, mentorship, and civic engagement.

Media contact: Ashley Mostek, PA Commission for Women, 717-787-1965

Editor's Note:  Lori Greiner's abbreviated biography is below.

Regarded as one of the most prolific inventors of retail products, Lori Greiner has created over 400 products, and holds 120 U.S. and international patents. She is a star shark on the hit entrepreneurial business show, Shark Tank on ABC, where she invests in companies and helps turn dreams into a reality.  Lori also has had her own show on QVC-TV, for the past 16 years called "Clever & Unique Creations by Lori Greiner."  She entered the literary world with her first book Invent It, Sell It, Bank It! which is an National Best Seller and is a hands on, step-by-step guide on how to turn an idea into a million dollar reality.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Commission for Women