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Welcome! On behalf of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Sigma Omega Chapter and the AKA Foundation of Central Pennsylvania, Inc. I warmly welcome you and encourage your attendance at the fourth annual "It's About You!" conference celebrating women by encouraging those who encourage others. A vision shared over five years ago has become a successful annual event. I am excited about this year's panelists, sessions, guest speaker and health village. This personal and professional development opportunity provides a venue for women from the corporate executive, business owner, working woman and those aspiring to hone their leadership skills, to share strategies to achieve a healthy work life balance. Yes we wear many titles and often several at the same time, CEO, employer, employee, unemployed, wife, mom, patient, caregiver, widow, divorcee, student, friend, and the list goes on. Yes, there are many circumstances that we face in our various roles that can put our life out of balance. And, too often in all of the multi-tasking, our needs move to the bottom of the list. Yes ladies, it is time to look in the mirror and proclaim, It's About You!” We want to provide you with tools to encourage you not to overlook your needs while continuing to encourage others and with tools to enhance your personal and professional life. I look forward to sharing this informative and fun professional and personal development experience with you because, "It's About You!”

For more information regarding this year’s conference and to register, visit our Chapter’s website at www.akaepsilonsigmaomega.com and remember to “Like” our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ItsAboutYouConference.

Warmest Regards, Susan Simms Marsh Susan Simms Marsh PS—As you head out to this year’s conference, don’t forget to check the handy conference checklist below and make sure you don’t leave home without the items listed.

Click here and learn more about all the 2014 Conference activities! IT’S A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE by Sheila Dow-Ford

There is something magical that comes from spending time in the company of energetic, engaging women. Some of my best memories come from sharing -- recipes, clothing, secrets, dreams, and aspirations--with my female friends, colleagues, family, and acquaintances. Probably, if you think about it, the same applies to you.

It started early, of course, this notion of the importance of women coming together to share. Remember those early conversations around the kitchen table about all manner of stuff having to do with all things in life both great and small? Sure you do. My mother and her friends would delve into deep discussions on life, love, religion, work, children, and health while I sat, pretending to color, doodle, or play jacks, all the while listening intently. “The pitcher has ears," was mother's way of sending out the message that topics meant for adults only were to be saved for later, after I'd wandered off to skate or jump rope. Of course, if there was a topic that couldn't wait she'd just shoo me away.

The thing is, I knew from those moments at the table with the women, there was something important being discussed, and that women were at the center of it all. Decisions were being pondered and made. Life was being mapped out and strategies for living were being devised. I loved those moments at the table, with my big ears and wide eyes, my senses attuned to the thoughts of the day. I knew there was valuable knowledge and wisdom in the thoughts and words of my mother and her female friends. And all of it was bound together by a bounty of laughter and love. Those moments helped to, shape me, and continue to do so today.

Since those days, I have come to value even more the beauty of communing with my female sisters, from all walks of life, who share a respect for embracing and validating their own experiences and those of others. We are women with a thirst for knowledge, and a desire to share in our own way, the challenges, opportunities, successes and strategies of our own lives.

All of this is exactly what I receive from the Epsilon Sigma Omega's “It’s About You" Women's Conference. Now in its fourth year, our conference brings together women who come from various places, from places local and distant, both literally and figuratively, to share with us their work, experiences, dreams and decisions. How fortunate we are to have their gifts in our midst this coming September 5th.

Year after year our conference validates its importance in our lives, by quenching the thirst we all have for the resourcefulness of women, of friendship, of sisterhood. We need to hear how success is gained and measured. We need to learn from others, and to share our stories of challenge and triumph.

This year's conference promises to provide us with another long drink of cool, refreshing water to nourish our souls. The theme this year is "Dancing for Your Own Uniqueness." We will offer workshops on health, wealth and wisdom, presented by a dynamic cadre of professionals sharing their expertise. Our keynote speaker is the dynamic bestselling author, ReShonda Billingsley Tate. This is a combination that is truly exciting!

We will learn how we obtain and measure personal and professional success, and, after we sit at the table with our talented and welcoming presenters, we will be challenged to get up and dance to our own uniqueness! (Continued) IT’S A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE by Sheila Dow-Ford

The "It’s about You" Conference is our chapter's extraordinary extension of those many previous moments at the table, with your mother, aunt, friend, grand- or God-mother: with that woman or group of women who, individually and collectively, have helped you develop the strength, wisdom, and courage to build the life you deserve. Think back to those times, however brief or fleeting, and savor in their importance. How did they shape you? Did someone at the table encourage you to pursue a degree or profession?

Guidance is often gained through sharing. Year after year our conference validates its Sharing: that is the operative term here. The women at the table importance in our lives, by quenching the sharing their insight, providing it as a gift to all who were thirst we all have for the resourcefulness of present .Today, we do so in more formal ways, and through more women, of friendship, of sisterhood. nuanced messaging, but the lessons are as important as ever to our lives. The beauty of our conference is that it is a bit of both, the old and the new. The table is a bit larger and the topics are more complex, but the solutions require the same elements: women who care and who bring creativity, wisdom, insight and perspective.

So, ladies, I invite each of you to join us at the ESO table this September 5th, for our fourth annual "It’s About You" Conference. Why? Because it really is about you! Please don't delay in getting registered and extending an invitation to your friends, family and colleagues who you know will need a drink from the wellspring of love, insight and perspective provided. What's more, we have lots of fun — so, register. Bring a few friends. Wear comfortable shoes :-), and relax at the conference.

I can't wait to see you there on September 5th!

Prior Conference Attendee Testimonials

Sometimes it's hard to break away, but when you do you find yourself rewarded in the fellowship of women who share a determined spirit to make their lives and this world a better place. Thank you ESO for "It's About You!" This conference provides an opportunity to rejuvenate, recharge, refresh and connect and network with other likeminded women. I’m glad I had the opportunity to attend in the past and I look forward to the 2014 event. — Darcel Guy Kimble Prior Conference Attendee Testimonials

For the past three years I have had the awesome opportunity to participate in the “It’s About You!” Women’s Conference, one of the most uplifting experiences I enjoy each year! With a new focus, dynamic presenters, and special features such as the Health Village, I hope you are ready to become renewed and invigorated by the experience, too. Last year Judge Penny Brown Reynolds provided one of my most memorable moments when she spoke about women’s finances. She challenged us to reduce our indebtedness by not spending money on ourselves for at least a year. (There was a three week grace period to satisfy our shopping desires before accepting the challenge.) Her words resonated with me and I accepted her challenge. I can thankfully say that I made it through almost a whole year without overindulging and still managed to have a wonderful year!

Wherever you are in your life, I am sure you will have your own “aha” moment when you attend this leadership conference. Investing time in yourself along with other women who are also striving to achieve their life’s goals – mind, body, and spirit – provides the necessary support to recharge areas of your life and provide new direction. Register soon and invite some in town and out-of-town friends so you will have others to share in your journey as you go “Dancing for Your Own Uniqueness !” —Karen Love

The It’s About You Conference is an opportunity to add to your repertoire both personally and professionally! Local and national leaders share their expertise and enable you to leave with a wealth of knowledge. It’s an opportunity to fellowship, recharge, and enjoy being in the company of other women. Come prepared to be enlightened, engaged, educated and empowered. You will leave feeling better than before you came. — Dr. Deborah Wortham 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKER KAMRYN ADAMS

Recently Conference Chairman, Yasmin M. Coleman (YC) had an opportunity to catch up and chat with the Health/Soul panelist, Kamryn Adams (KA). Kamryn is honored to be one of the 2014 speakers and took a few moments out of her busy schedule to chat with us. Provided below is a fun Q&A/interview from Kamryn. Kamryn is a wealth of knowledge and possesses a loving spirit. We can’t wait to hear her in person on September 5.

YC: How difficult was it to leave Corporate America to start your own business? KA: As with any life change it was more than a notion. It was a hard decision to come to but with the right planning and execution it isn't as hard as what you might think.

YC: What has been most rewarding and fulfilling in working for yourself? KA: Playing by rules and living my values. The corporate world can be very conform- ing. As you can imagine, I'm not much of a conformist. I chameleon really well, but it is very draining to me. I want to speak up when I want to speak up. I want to be genuine and honest no matter what's at stake. I want to say "Thank you Jesus" when I land a big contract without having to discuss it with HR.

YC: What makes you unique? Nothing. I believe in general we are all the same. [laughs] What I mean is that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made for a purpose. I am not unique in that. Yes, I have a different purpose than the next person but that person is just as important and just as gifted as I am in the right situation. There is only one me. That's unique enough.

YC: What is your definition of success? KA: Achieving what it is you want to do, how you want to do it with the results you always wanted. I never want to compro- mise my values in order to get what I want. And I don't want to get what I want at the expense of my peace and joy.

YC: What are your core values? KA: I've spent a lot of time developing this over the last few years. My core value is authenticity. I want to be exactly who I am and I want everyone else to be who they are. I want an authentic experience. I want to be real in everything I do. It may not always pass the "good" test but it's an honest behavior, thought, feeling and I embrace it. Another of my values is connection, which kind of spins off from authenticity. Real relationships are soulful and connecting. The last of my big three is choice. Being able to exercise my choices is very important to me. Authenticity, Connection, Choice.

YC: Where is Faith? Family? KA: That's a great question. What I've learned about values is that they penetrate who you are. They are your being. Faith is my choice to have an authentic connection with God. It is important that I have an authentic connection with my family and respect the choices we make as individuals. Faith and Family are important to me BECAUSE my values are what they are. They aren't my values.

YC: What quote, motto, or scripture do you live by? KA: Oh, without a doubt, 1 Timothy 1:14, The Grace of the Lord is poured out on me abundantly along with the faith and love that are in Jesus Christ. Those three things are all you need.

What do you want people to remember about you? KA: If they remember nothing else I hope they remember that I talked about love. God loves you and you owe it to Him to love yourself. Once you do, it's so easy to love other people. MEET THE 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Kamryn Adams Extraordinary things happen when you align mind, body and soul!

It’s About You… Your Health: Mind, Body and Soul panel includes Kamryn Adams.

Kamryn is a Certified Life Coach, emotional wellness advocate, lifestyle writer, and an expert in contemporary women’s issues. Kamryn assists women in offering creative, sustainable solutions to relationship, family, work and life dilemmas. She has been coaching individuals through workshops, conference speaking, books and her nearly two decades of writing.

Tonia C. Anderson Too many people spend money they haven't earned, to buy things they don't want, to impress people they don't like.

It’s About You… Your Money: Empowering Your Money to Work for You panel moderator is Tonia Anderson who is also the conference Operations Chairman.

Tonia was born in Steelton, PA and graduated from Philadelphia University. She is the CEO and Owner of Anderson Insurance Services Inc., where she is a trusted advisor and licensed to write and manage Property, Auto, Landlord, Commercial, Supplementary Benefits and Life Insurance products. She is also licensed to write financial products that are offered by Allstate Insurance Company and its subsidiaries.

Yasmin Coleman Live your truth. Express your love. Share your enthusiasm. Take action towards your dreams. Walk your talk. Dance and sing to your music. Embrace your blessings. Make today worth remembering!

Let’s have a round of applause for Yasmin Coleman, President of Epsilon Sigma Omega Chapter and Conference Chairman for a job well done! MEET THE 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Shanese Crosson Dance your troubles away. Life is better when you dance.

It’s About You… Your Fitness: Fun Ways to Get in Shape featuring line dance instruction by Shanese Crosson.

Shanese was born in Harrisburg and in May 2013 returned to the area after completing a degree in marketing at Clarion University of Pennsylvania. Currently she is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration. When she’s not studying, she enjoys line dancing and is a YouTube Vlogger. Shanese loves trying new things and being happy within is success for her!

Roxane Hearn Did you know that every issue we face with the body is somehow linked to the mind, heart and soul?

It’s About You… Your Health: Mind, Body and Soul panel includes Roxane Hearn.

Known as Health Coach Rox, Roxane Hearn has an unmatched dedication to helping others live healthier and happier lives! She is a gifted coach, trainer, and motivational speaker. Roxane is the “head coach” and founder of the DRIP SWEAT Boot Camp.

Trisha Howe You were born with all the unique abilities, knowledge and talents you need for your mission in life. You do not need to compare yourself to anyone else. Just be yourself and start shining!

It’s About You... Your Emotional IQ Workshop facilitator is Trisha Howe. Trisha is an Executive Coach, a Life Coach, a certified Emotional Intelligence Coach, a motivational speaker, and a Human Resources Consultant. She has been working in the Human Resources field for 27 years. Trisha’s passion and life purpose is to help people in understanding themselves, assisting them in setting and achieving goals and experiencing more fulfilling and loving lives. MEET THE 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Porcha Johnson If it doesn't nourish your soul, get rid of it!

It’s About You… Y our Health: Mind, Body and Soul panel moderator is Porcha Johnson.

Porcha reports for WGAL NEWS. Her love for telling news stories for WGAL has been a driving force behind the development of Blackgirlhealth.com, a website where “our bodies tell our stories.” She believes, the condition of your body inside and out, will tell the story of your life.

Marilynn Kanenson Say it once then repeat twice: "I am a magnet for divine abundance in the form of money, health and happiness"

It’s About You… Your Money: Empowering Your Money to Work for You panel includes Marilyn Kanenson.

Marilyn has been a Financial Consultant for 35 years. She found her calling as a broker, finding it intellectually stimulating. Active in the community, Marilyn is the immediate past President of the Dauphin County Library; Chair of the Case Management unit of Dauphin County MH/MR; Serves on the Boards of Common Cause, Common Roads and United Jewish Federation (Past President).

Gretchen Lee Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being positive about what could go right.

It’s About You… Your Money: Empowering Your Money to Work for You panel includes Gretchen Lee.

Gretchen is a wife, mom to a five-month old, music teacher and Premier Designs jewelry consultant. She has been working with Premier Designs jewelry for eight years, making it possible for Gretchen to take her family on two all-expense paid vacations, put a down payment on a new home and save enough money to stay home with her baby girl for a year! When Gretchen is not working her business, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, singing and taking walks. MEET THE 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Dr. Nycole Lyles-Belton You, yes you! Listen: You are AMAZING! Remember that!

It’s About You… Your Health: Mind, Body and Soul, panel includes Dr. Nycole Lyles-Belton.

Nycole is affectionately known as a Fire Ball for her fiery messages of encouragement. Some of these messages include: Thanks for Making Me a Fighter, Somebody’s Gotta Die and Loving in Spite Of. She is an ordained minister, and the Founder and CEO of Greatness In You, Inc., which is based on the belief that all are destined for Greatness!

Susan Simms Marsh It all begins with you. If you do not care for yourself, you will not be strong enough to take care of anything in life.

Attorney Susan Simms Marsh is the Founder of the It’s About You Women’s Leadership Conference. Her vision has flourished over the last four years. Women in the Central Pennsylvania area and beyond have gained invaluable knowledge to achieve a healthy balance in their lives! Susan is Corporate Counsel for the Pennsylvania American Water Company and is the immediate past International Secretary of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She and her husband, Ronald Marsh, are active members of the Goodwin Memorial Baptist Church where she serves as Pro-Bono Legal Counsel.

Sharia Spells Surround yourself with people who encourage you, inspire you, and believe in your dreams.

Sharia Spells, It's About You Conference Program Chairman, will facilitate a networking activity during the conference.

Sharia, a human resource professional with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R), has the distinction of serving as the company’s sole Onboarding Specialist. She is very influential in fostering and shaping an environment of perpetual development that meets the needs for both aspiring and existing leaders and professionals. She has an eye for innovation and her ideas are forward thinking yet strategically aligned with current trends. In addition, she designs training programs to enhance professional competence, enable career fulfillment, and contribute to individual effectiveness. Sharia has been named Ms. Congeniality because she exudes positive energy which is infectious to all that come in contact with her.

She earned a Bachelor’s in Hotel Restaurant and Institutional Management from Penn State University and is in the final stage of pursuing her M.Ed. in Training and Development. She resides in Harrisburg, PA with her husband, Eugene, and son, Christopher. MEET THE 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Sheena Toliver Don't let someone talk you out of your dreams!

It’s About You… Your Money: Empowering Your Money to Work for You panel includes Sheena Toliver.

Sheena is Joint Owner, Supervisor of Operations, and CFO for Comforcare Senior Services, a minority- owned, Pennsylvania state licensed, premier home care agency. Sheena’s husband of 38 years, is the Director of Operations. Together they oversee 48 nurses’ aides, two registered nurses and a staff support of five. Since its inception in the Greater Harrisburg area, they have provided care to 360 clients, supporting them in assistance with daily living, respite and hospice. Sheena has 38 years of business management experience, and after retiring as a consultant for the Verizon Phone Company, she and her husband initiated their business plan in 2006 and became franchise owners in 2007. Sheena is an advocate for the elderly, and a certified instructor in dementia care. Sheena works tirelessly to keep youth in the church active. Sheena’s hobbies and activities include sewing, writing, reading and volunteering as a children’s literacy advocate.

Dee Young Never spend your money before you have earned it!

It’s About You… Your Money: Empowering Your Money to Work for You panel includes Dee Young.

Dee has been an Insurance & Financial Advisor for over 20 years. She enjoys coaching clients to meet their insurance and financial goals. Her goal and mission through her agency is to educate as many people as possible about the need for insurance and financial planning. Dee is a big proponent of financial literacy for everyone who wants to become financially fit.

Joan Wilmer-Stewart What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create.

It’s About You… Your Branding and Vision Workshop facilitator is Joan Wilmer Stewart.

Ms. Wilmer-Stewart is currently Vice President of Human Resources (HR) for Caesars Entertainment – Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, Maryland. Prior, she worked at the American Red Cross, Toyota, Citigroup, and Bank of America, in multiple executive roles. During her career, she has been responsi- ble for business in North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Norfolk State University, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Texas. She is regarded by many as a powerful leader, a loving and giving sister, and a strong community advocate who has a passion for serving others and a drive for excellence. MEET THE 2014 CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

ReShonda Tate Billingsley Life is like a roller coaster. You can either scream every time there is a bump or you can throw your hands up and enjoy the ride!

We are very excited to hear the words of the It’s About You Conference keynote speaker: ReShonda Tate Billingsley!

ReShonda is a former television and radio news reporter who has been in the journalism business for more than two decades! She left a career with a stable salary and benefits to pursue her dream of writing, and currently is a best-selling author. She is an example of overcoming obstacles in order to work for herself. In addition, she has encouraged and inspired many authors to write and publish their own stories. And, of course, she is an amazing author.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND SPECIAL THANKS

The members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Sigma Omega Chapter, in partnership with the AKA Foundation of Central Pennsylvania, greatly appreciate the continued support of our sponsors, product donors, vendors and 2014 conference guests.