Description

2025 ConnectHER Conference

Presented by Branch
📅 Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
📍 Build Smart Institute, 701 Gainsboro Road, Roanoke, VA 24016

About the Conference

The ConnectHER Conference is a high-energy, full-day experience designed to inspire, equip, and connect women leaders from across Virginia’s Blue Ridge. This is your opportunity to step away from the daily grind, invest in your personal and professional growth, and walk away with actionable tools, fresh perspectives, and powerful connections.

Whether you’re an executive, an entrepreneur, an emerging leader, or a community changemaker, the ConnectHER Conference is here to help you lead boldly, build community, and grow your career.

What to Expect

🌟 Women’s Leadership Panel — Leading Together: Building Careers & Communities

Hear from a powerhouse panel of women who are making a difference in their industries and communities:

• Dani Poe — Economic Development Director, Franklin County

• Kim Blair — Sr. Director of Principal Gifts & Strategic Initiatives, Carilion Clinic Foundation

• Tiphanie Rasnick — Vice President Commercial Office Manager, Ridge View Bank & Nonprofit Founder

• Zenith Barrett — Founder, The Zenith Agency​​

Moderated by: Michelle Ramaker, President of Build Smart Institute

These leaders will share insights from their unique career paths, experiences in leadership, and approaches to building stronger communities while fostering personal and professional growth.

🤝 Networking Challenges

Break the ice, meet new people, and grow your network through fun, interactive challenges designed to spark meaningful conversations.

📚 Workshops (Details Coming Soon)

Participate in breakout sessions packed with practical insights you can take back to the office and put into action immediately.

💬 Peer-to-Peer Roundtables

Engage in open, candid discussions with fellow attendees on a variety of leadership topics — from building confidence to mastering work-life harmony.

🎤 Closing Keynote (To Be Announced)

End the day feeling inspired with a keynote designed to leave you motivated, empowered, and ready to lead with purpose.

Who Should Attend

• Business owners & entrepreneurs

• Corporate & nonprofit leaders

• Emerging professionals

• Community advocates

• Anyone ready to connect, learn, and lead

Stay Connected

Follow the Roanoke Regional Chamber on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for event updates, speaker announcements, and behind-the-scenes previews.