2024 Womens' History Awardees
Greater NY Chamber Celebrates Women’s History Month
New York, NY – The Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, successfully hosted its Annual Women’s History Awards Reception in the General Society Library in Midtown Manhattan on March 28th. This esteemed event drew a noteworthy crowd of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals, all gathered to honor the remarkable contributions of women in various fields.
A central feature of the reception was the pre reception roundtable discussion with Joann Hill (Chief Director of the US Dept of Commerce MBDA program). The discussion was led by Duvi Honig (President of Orthodox Jewish Chamber) & Mark Jaffe (President of Greater NY Chamber). The roundtable saw the participation of city and state leaders as well as other Chamber of Commerce presidents. After the roundtable, there was a networking reception sponsored by JP Morgan Chase & Ill Printing.
The awards were then presented by special guest emcee Jane Tillman Irving, a legendary award winning WCBS 880 News Reporter. The Awards reception honored: Joann Hill, Chief Director of the US Dept of Commerce MBDA Program; Angela DiBiasi, Principal Attorney for Westchester County Supreme Court; Robin Verges, Senior VP of Rubenstein Communications; Leonora Bulychova, Founder of Aelita Club; Captain Zeita Merchant, Commander of Sector NY for the US Coast Guard and Chase for Business Coaching for Impact program participants Yannize Joshua of The Teknique Agency and Jenniffer Firpo of JVision Advertising.
The awardees illuminated the diverse journeys, challenges, and triumphs of women leaders and entrepreneurs. Their comments offered profound insights and inspiration to all in attendance. The awardees stories underscored the indispensable role of women in spearheading social and economic transformations. Most noteworthy was the recognition of Captain Zeita Merchant's historic appointment as Rear Admiral in the United States Coast Guard. This appointment marked a significant milestone in the organization's 233-year history. As the first African American woman to hold this esteemed position, Merchant shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of women aspire to leadership roles in the military. Joining in this presentation was a strong contingent of NYC Veterans which included NYC Veteran’s Affairs Commissioner James Hendon and retired US Airforce Colonel Terrance Holliday.
Also noteworthy was the presentation of Joann J. Hill, the Chief of the Office of Minority Business Development Agency at the US Department of Commerce, was recognized for her outstanding contributions in empowering minority businesses and fostering economic growth. Hill's tireless efforts to support and advocate for minority-owned businesses have had a profound impact on the economic landscape, helping to level the playing field and create opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in business development was applauded at the event, where her leadership was celebrated.