Peoria Magazines’ annual Women of Influence Forum is a tribute to women in the workplace and an inspirational way to bring the community together and empower female leaders.

(Un)Skirting the Issues...

This year, we are honored to welcome as keynote speaker, first-time author, Caterpillar director and Peoria resident Bonnie Fetch. Bonnie has spoken passionately at conferences and events on topics such as diversity and inclusion, discovering unconscious bias, and creating an engaged work environment.

Her newly published book, (Un)Skirting the Issues: A Guide for the Well-Intentioned Man in Today’s Workplace, will be available at the forum. The first 200 registrants can purchase the book at the special rate of $4.99 ($10 off regular price).

Following the keynote, Bonnie will engage in an open-dialogue Q&A and book signing. In addition, there will be a breakfast buffet, two breakout sessions, and time for networking.

Breakout Sessions

The Sandwich Generation: Addressing the Needs of Our Aging Parents and Our Children (At the Same Time) presented by Mary Corrigan, Howard & Howard
Tackling both elder care and childcare at once requires fortitude and patience. Despite the tremendous pressures faced by those with these dual obligations, millions of Americans have assumed this admirable role.

Organizational Culture: An Important Differentiator 
presented by Paula Petersen, Commerce Bank
Culture has always been important, but today, it's much more than just a buzzword. Culture is an important differentiator that can set your organization apart from the competition. It's also what attracts the right talent and brings in the right customers.

Facing Addiction: Unmasking a Discriminated Disease
presented by Brittany Ott, Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery, an affiliate of UnityPoint Health
Who is the face of addiction? Individuals from all walks of life are impacted by this disease. In fact, nearly one in seven individuals struggle with an addiction. Through increased awareness and education, we can reduce the stigma of this disease and discuss the path to and hope of recovery.

Community Service: A Guide to Getting Involved  
presented by Abby Clark, Davis & Campbell
Community service plays a vital role in supporting our nation’s culture of citizenship, service and responsibility. Through service, we can be catalysts for community solutions and champions for the ideal that every American has skills and talents to offer. 

Book Signing / Networking / Holiday Nutrition Tips

After the breakout sessions, enjoy time for networking and get your copy of (Un)Skirting the Issues signed by co-author Bonnie Fetch. In addition, Chef Golda Ewalt will be on hand to offer a few tips on preparing savory winter squash—plus samples of her delectable Korean Spiced Butternut Squash Soup!

Join Us!

Join us at the 2017 Women of Influence Forum: experience motivating speakers; discuss and exchange ideas; and challenge yourself to think in a different way. You’ll leave with a variety of new tools and contacts to help you take the next step in your career! #WOI2017

Special thanks to our sponsors...