WBENC FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 PRESIDENT'S REPORT

REPORT

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

Top Corporation Best Practices:

BANK OF America WBE Success Stories:

NorthrOp Grumman Award Phyllis Bresler Keeli Jernigan, Trans-Expedite INC. and Mary Singer CRG2 SUSTAINABLESOLUTIONS Focus on the Forum - Brenda Loube 2013 NCBF Host Committee Member Lynne Alexander

2013 SUMMIT & SALUTE KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

DR. MARCI ROSSELL

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Calendar of Events

This calendar includes events hosted by WBENC's Regional Partner Organizations and strategic partners. Visit WBENC's online calendar for more events.

WBENC Summit & Salute to Women’s Business Enterprises March 13-14, 2013 Baltimore Hilton Baltimore, MD Click here for details.

GWBC Annual Meeting & Match Me Up March 19, 2013 The Coca-Cola Company Atlanta, GA Click here for details.

CWE Auction & Gala Celebration March 23, 2013 Renaissance Boston Waterfront Boston, MA Click here for details.

WBEC-West Utilize Your Utilities: Tips to Doing Business with Colorado Utilities March 27, 2013 PPA Event Center Denver, CO Click here for details.

WBEC-PA-DE-sNJ Executive Leadership Luncheon March 29, 2013 Women’s Business Enterprise Council Philadelphia, PA Click here for details.

WBEC South 2013 Women’s Business Opportunity Expo April 3-4, 2013 New Orleans Marriott New Orleans, LA Click here for details.

WBC-Southwest businessWORKS! April 11, 2013 Irving Convention Center Irving, TX Click here for details.

CEED Annual Award Celebration April 11, 2013 Suburban Collection Showplace Novi, MI Click here for details.

Editorial Team

ORV-WBC Catch the Wave Regional Conference April 22, 2013 Embassy Suites Charleston, W.VA Click here for details.

Editorial Assistant

Astra WBA Women Entrepreneurs Global Connect Expo & Summit 2013 April 24-27, 2013 World Trade Center Portland, OR Click here for details.

Linda Johnson Visionista

23rd Annual Government Procurement Conference (OSDBU) April 25, 2013 Walter E. Washington Convention Center Washington, DC Click here for details.

WBEC-PA-DE-sNJ WBE Program / MatchMaker Meetings April 26, 2013 Pittsburgh, PA Click here for details.

ISM 98th Annual International Supply Management Conference & Educational Exhibit April 28, 2013 Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center Grapevine, TX Click here for details.

Editor-in-Chief Pat Birmingham

Allison Gibson

Production and Design Limb Design

Photography

Writers

Paige Adams Senior Director, Development & Corporate Relations Kim Jones Manager, Corporate Member Services Brenda Loube Principal/Founder of Corporate Fitness Works Jean Poling Contributing Writer Pamela Prince-Eason President & CEO Lynthia Romney RomneyCom, LLC Candace Waterman Chief of Staff LaKesha White Senior Compliance Manager

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Table of Contents: February/MARCH Edition of the President’s Report President’s Message

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Features WBENC Is Proud To Announce The 2012 America’s Top Corporations For Women’s Business Enterprises

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Top Corporation Best Practices: Bank of America

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WIPP/WBENC Inaugural Reception & Release of Economic Blueprint Fernando Hernandez, Microsoft Corporation Women’s History Month - Entrepreneurs Throughout History Paving The Way 2013 Summit & Salute Raffle Benefits Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts

June 25-27, 2013

Minneapolis, MN Minneapolis Convention Center

2013 Co-Chairs

Government Spotlight: Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program: A Change Has Come

8 10 12 14

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Certification WBE Success Stories: Northrop Grumman Award - Phyllis Bresler 16 Keeli Jernigan, President & CEO, Trans-Expedite Inc. and Mary Singer, President & CEO, CRG2 SustainableSolutions 18 Focus on the Forum - Brenda Loube 20 2013 NCBF Host Committee Member - Lynne Alexander 22 Opportunities Summit & Salute: How To Prepare 2013 Summit & Salute Keynote Speaker - Dr. Marci Rossell 2013 WBENC National Conference & Business Fair: Registration Now Open!

Recognition MBN USA Magazine Names 2012 Ambassadors For Supplier Diversity 2013 WBENC Board Recognition Month WBENC President Emeritus, Linda Denny, Receives Women of Vision Award

Resources Take Care of Your Heart!

24 25 26

28 31 33

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President’s

Message The involvement of all WBENC constituents is a fundamental element which leads to success throughout our network and is important to unlocking the value that exists within the WBENC community. I believe that focused participation strengthens existing relationships and fosters new ones. Recognition that promotes the success of key constituents creates a better awareness of leading practices required to create success for women entrepreneurs and inspires all to reach higher standards of performance. No where will you see this exhibited better than in the events presented by WBENC nationally as well as locally by our Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs).

Our new theme, “Join Forces - Succeed Together,” reinforces that success is only possible through partnership amongst our Corporate and Government members, WBEs, RPOs and staff members. At WBENC, we continually strive to adapt to the evolving needs of our constituents and to meet your expectations.

Next week you will discover that together we will not only meet but also exceed your expectations throughout the two day Summit & Salute program and celebration. The programming has been planned with robust content and opportunities for connections that will allow everyone to contribute to the competitive supply chains of our Corporate and Government members and Women’s Business Enterprises.

You will also find the message from our keynote speaker Dr. Marci Rossell to be both relevant and timely. Her understanding and experience with the U.S. economic cycle will provide great insight on how each person and

Engagement is Key to Success company can compete and succeed in the current economic environment as our nation moves forward on the path to recovery in 2013.

This year, for the first time, the 32 companies being recognized for the significant roles they play in advancing the success of women entrepreneurs will share their insights and successes with all attendees at three general sessions which will be held on Thursday, March 14th.

This allows us to both celebrate their accomplishments and enables every person to benefit from the knowledge, practices and learning that only they can share.

Our time together will culminate with honoring 14 WBEs who are being recognized as our 2013 WBENC Business Stars. These women provide examples from within our network of the determination, commitment and leadership required to create, plan and manage women owned businesses that deliver needed and innovative products and services to meet business needs in the public and private marketplace.

I hope you will join me as we celebrate our 14 Business Stars and our 32 Top Corporations for Doing Business with Women’s Business Enterprises at the Baltimore Hilton on March 13 & 14, 2013 where we will be Joining Forces!

Best, Pamela Prince-Eason WBENC President and CEO

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

RECOGNITION

WBENC IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE 2012 AMERICA’S TOP CORPORATIONS FOR WOMEN’S BUSINESS ENTERPRISES

Accenture Alcatel-Lucent AT&T Avis Budget Group, Inc. Bank of America BP America Inc. Chevron Chrysler Group LLC

ManpowerGroup

Dell Inc.

Marriott International, Inc.

Energy Future Holdings

Office Depot

Ernst & Young LLP

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Exxon Mobil Corporation

PepsiCo, Inc.

Ford Motor Company

Pfizer Inc

General Motors Company, LLC

Pitney Bowes Inc.

IBM

Shell

Johnson & Johnson

Target Corporation

Kelly Services, Inc.

The Coca-Cola Company

Macy’s, Inc.

United Airlines UPS Verizon Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

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Features

TOP CORPORATION BEST PRACTICES: BANK OF AMERICA As a founding sponsor of WBENC in 1997 and a 12-time recipient of the WBENC America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) recognition, Bank of America continues to focus on the importance of supporting, developing and growing Women-Owned Businesses.

“ In today’s very challenging economic environment, Bank of America understands that an essential factor in restoring a successful, thriving U.S. economy is the existence of dynamic, growing small businesses, many of which are owned by women,” said Tiffany Eubanks-Saunders, Bank of America’s Supplier Diversity and Development Executive. “The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) partnership is one that Bank of America views as fundamental and meaningful for this purpose and we appreciate the tremendous efforts that WBENC has made over the years to affect the vision and mission of the organization.”

Bank of America’s formal Supplier Diversity Program began in 1990 with two specific objectives. They are to ensure that diverse and women-owned businesses are afforded maximum opportunity in their competitive procurement processes and to actively increase the amount of quality products and services the company obtains from these businesses.

Over the years, Bank of America has dedicated significant resources to: •D eveloping education programs to drive capacity building and economic development in the communities that we serve •E stablishing strategic coaching programs to enable direct feedback and action planning to help these businesses reach the next level • Identifying critical industry partnerships that provide a platform to address the issues, concerns and needs most important to women-owned businesses In the last 10 years, Bank of America has spent more than $11 Billion with diverse and women-owned businesses and the company continues to achieve program

PRESIDENT’S REPORT objectives by partnering with women-owned businesses. One Florida WBENC-certified WBE has been engaged with Bank of America’s Supplier Diversity Program since 1990 and has served as a second tier vendor for 15 years. This company provides ATM installations at existing banking locations, RCI-HVAC services, roofs, parking lots & exterior painting, major renovations and “New Store” construction, as well as, minor renovations at other locations. They also manage disaster recovery for hurricanes and any immediate renovation requirements resulting from a natural disaster.

TIFFANY EUBANKS-SAUNDERS Supplier Diversity and Development Executive, Bank of America

“ This company’s commitment to service and their focus on both clients and employees make them a valued partner for Bank of America,”said Eubanks-Saunders.

For more information about Bank of America please visit www.bankofamerica.com .

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Features

WBENC AND WIPP CO-HOST THE 2013 “WOMEN’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY INAUGURAL RECEPTION” AT WBENC HEADQUARTERS THE “WOMEN’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY INAUGURAL RECEPTION” WAS HELD AT WBENC HEADQUARTERS, 1120 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW, SUITE 1000, WASHINGTON, DC ON SUNDAY JANUARY 20, 2013.

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest third-party certifier of businesses owned, controlled, and operated by women in the United States. WBENC, a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, partners with 14 Regional Partner Organizations to provide its world class standard of certification to women-owned businesses throughout the country. WBENC is also the nation’s leading advocate of women-owned businesses as suppliers to America’s corporations and is dedicated to advancing the success of Corporate Members, certified women’s business enterprises (WBEs), and government entities in partnership with its Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs).

Women Impacting Public Policy, Inc. (WIPP) is a national, nonpartisan public policy organization that advocates for and on behalf of women and minorities in business in the legislative processes of our nation, creating economic opportunities and building bridges and alliances to other small business organizations serving as the “Voice for Women in Business” in our Nation’s Capital. WBENC and WIPP have a “Memorandum of Understanding” which allows WBENC-Certified WBEs to have a voice in the public sector for legislative needs that impact women business owners and entrepreneurs in general.

As these leading women’s advocacy organizations “joined forces” at the “Women’s Business Community Inaugural Reception”, an estimated 300 guests composed of women business owners and advocates shared in the celebration, experiencing an extraordinary and meaningful opportunity to meet, greet and mingle with like-minded guests who are advocates of Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs). The event celebrated the Inauguration of the President of the United States, without party bias, honored Women Members of Congress (this year there are 100) and acknowledged the release of a formal update to the publication “Economic Blueprint – The Women Business Owners’ Platform for Growth” that WBENC, with other members of the Women’s Business Community contributed to during the past decade.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT The Economic Blueprint represents women’s business communities that have united in purpose and with shared aspirations, to present economic principles that allow small businesses to flourish in a global market. Inclusion of the expectations expressed in the Blueprint, in future public formulation, will help ensure that our democracy represents all of its citizens.

Jennifer Bisceglie, Barbara Kasoff, Pamela Prince-Eason

The seven fundamental principles of the Blueprint include: • Economic Principles • Access to Capital Principles • Procurement Principles • Health Care Principles • Energy and Environment Principles • Telecommunications and Technology Principles • Export and Trade Principles WBENC and WIPP would like to thank the sponsors who made this very successful reception possible: AT&T, BARR Management Consulting, CMA, Joint Logistics Managers, Inc., North Wind, Rita Ricks LLC, Superior Workforce Solutions and UPS.

For more information about the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) please visit Pamela Prince-Eason, Meredith Satz, Lynn Quinn, Candace Waterman, Jean Poling, Helen Avery, Pat Birmingham http://www.wbenc.org.

For more information about Women Impacting Public Policy, Inc. (WIPP) or the Economic Blueprint please visit http://www.wipp.org.

Photos of the “Women’s Business Community Inaugural Reception” are available at http://www.flickr.com/photos/wippwedecide/sets/72157632644768987.

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FEATURES

Fernando Hernandez, Microsoft Corporation, Awarded the Honor of Being Named as a Top 25 Corporate Elite – 2013

by HispanicBusiness.com Fernando Hernandez has been named as a Top 25 Corporate Elite for 2013 by HispanicBusiness.com. The honor as described by HispanicBusiness.com: “In some respects it is the best of times to be a senior-level executive. Whether running a Fortune 500 company, serving on a board of directors or navigating the corridors between conference rooms, over the years Hispanic Corporate Elites have balanced personal ambition and business success with community participation and a commitment to diversity.”

Fernando Hernandez has held the role of Director Supplier Diversity, Global Procurement Group for Microsoft Corporation, a WBENC corporate member, since 2006. During his tenure, Hernandez has taken Microsoft supplier diversity programs to world-class level achievement by increasing multicultural diversity spend from $600 million to $1.5 billion dollars. Fernando commonly exceeds his desired objectives by closely engaging with corporate leaders, suppliers and communities which has influenced Microsoft’s supplier diversity programs to extend beyond U.S. borders.

FERNANDO HERNANDEZ Director Supplier Diversity, Global Procurement Group, Microsoft Corporation

Hernandez has demonstrated commitment and strengths in Supplier Diversity, Multicultural Marketing, and Business Development throughout his career while balancing his personal ambition and business success with community participation.

Such was the criteria established by HispanicBusiness.com for selecting their Top 25 Corporate Elites for 2013 for which Hernandez was recently honored. Referred to as “captains of industry” by HispanicBusiness.com, Corporate Elite leaders implement the details of the recovery at each entity for which they work. They carry out the daily tasks necessary to revitalize the economy and achieve recoveries within their respective organizations and industries. Corporate Elites manage costs and maximize productivity, organize staff and reorganize departments, lead divisions and engage employees, all of which are reflected in Hernandez’s success.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Although Hernandez was unsure of what he wanted to do in his early 20s, he knew that he wanted to become successful and understood what was necessary for him to achieve that singular goal. He refers to this nature as being “over-aspiring.” Hernandez learned that listening to mentors is critical to achieving success in the boardroom and shares guidance from his experiences which benefit all business leaders:

“ I learned, only later on, after I was in corporate America for a time, mentors would take me aside and tell me how to follow up. You have to understand that, in a business environment, you have to move your agenda forward.

Put both your best feet forward; dress for success; get business cards; gather phone numbers or email addresses and follow through with questions. Be persistent, but don’t be rude. People bond with people they feel comfortable with.”

Hernandez assists Microsoft in finding and developing technologies from innovative diversity businesses, including startups. The diversity supplier group Hernandez directs has identified cloud computing as one of its major categories for growth.

“ There are currently 1.7 million jobs in cloud computing,” Hernandez says, “and that is expected to grow to 7 million jobs soon. Microsoft is searching for established businesses that can scale — grow bigger, faster, more economically — as well as smaller enterprises run by high-achieving entrepreneurs. If it’s a company that’s small, but has great technology, we’re interested.”

Hernandez serves as a board member of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), and Billion Dollar Round Table, previously held a seat on the board of Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and is the Chair of the Business and Economic Development Center at The University of Washington.

For more information about Microsoft Corporation, please visit their website: http://www.microsoft.com/about/companyinformation/procurement/diversity.

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FEATURES

OMEN’S HISTORY MONTH W ENTREPRENEURS THROUGHOUT HISTORY PAVING THE WAY Many amazing and innovative women have contributed to the rich history and hard fought journey of women entrepreneurs. Most of us do not think back very far into the past when thinking about women who paved the way for Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs), but there were some very interesting pioneers. Some great role models include:

Margaret Hardenbrook Philipse The Dutch colonists who settled in New Amsterdam (now New York City) in the 17th century had a matriarchal society where women could inherit money and land— unusual at the time. Because of this, many women were business owners, although most were not as successful as Margaret Hardenbrook Philipse, considered the wealthiest woman in New Amsterdam. She was a Colonial merchant and ship owner who traded goods, including furs, between New Amsterdam and the Netherlands.

Lydia Pinkham Some would call her the Ann Landers or Dr. Ruth of the 1800s. In 1875, Lydia Estes Pinkham of Lynn, Massachusetts, converted her herbal home remedies into a big business by skillfully marketing her products toward women and educating them about health issues. Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound became one of the best-known patent medicines of the 19th century. Pinkham was deemed a crusader for women’s health in an age when women’s needs weren’t being met by the medical community.

Cooper Laboratories bought the company in 1968, though pills and a liquid stamped with Pinkham’s name are still available at some drug stores.

Eliza Lucas Pinckney She’s known as America’s first important agriculturalist for introducing blue indigo dye into continental North America. Eliza Lucas was born in Antigua, an island in the West Indies, in 1722. She attended a finishing school in London, where she developed a love for botany. When she was still young, her family moved to the U.S., and her father acquired three plantations. At the age of 16, Pinckney took over the plantations near Charles Town, in the Province of South Carolina, after her mother died and her father, a British military officer, returned to the West Indies. After realizing that the growing textile industry was creating a need for new dyes, Pinckney began making a high-quality blue indigo dye in 1739. Her creation was a success: Indigo soon ranked second to rice as a South Carolina export crop. She went on to produce flax, hemp, silk and figs. Pinckney died in 1793, but her legend lives on. She became the first woman inducted into the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame in 1989.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Madame C.J. Walker Considered one of the 20th century’s most successful women entrepreneurs, Madam C.J. Walker built her empire out of nothing. Her parents were former slaves, and she was orphaned at the age of 7. In 1905, she created Madam Walker’s Wonderful Hair Grower, a scalp conditioning and healing formula. Walker had a personal connection to the product since she suffered from a scalp ailment that caused her to lose most of her hair. She eventually expanded her business to Central America and the Caribbean. By 1917, Walker held one of the first national meetings of businesswomen in Philadelphia, the Madam C.J. Walker Hair Culturists Union of America convention.

Walker’s hard work and perseverance carved a path for women entrepreneurs, the African-American hair-care and cosmetics industry, and the African-American community as a whole.

Martha Coston Martha Coston was an entrepreneur and inventor who lived during the Civil War era. When her husband died, he left behind rough sketches of an idea for a pyrotechnic flare.

Using his initial sketches, Coston perfected and patented a system of signal flares that enabled communication between ships at sea. Coston sold her system to navies and shippers around the world. In her pursuits to patent and sell her invention, Martha Coston often had to pretend to be a man because as a woman, she was regularly dismissed or undercompensated. Modern day signal flares still use the Coston flare as the basis for their designs.

Ruth Handler Ruth Handler and her husband founded Mattel Toys in 1945, but it was not until 1959 that Barbie, Mattel’s most famous doll, was born. The idea for a grown-up doll was conceived in 1956, but it took Ruth Handler nearly three years to convince the company that making a grown-up doll for kids was a good idea. Barbie, who was envisioned as the “perfect woman” based on the ideals of the time, was named after Ruth Handler’s own daughter Barbara. Barbie (the doll) celebrated her 50th birthday in 2009.

Brownie Wise Brownie Wise was a 37 year-old divorcee when she started a company called Tupperware Patio Parties. Soon her inhome parties were selling more Tupperware than stores did, which caught the eye of Earl Tupper, the maker of Tupperware. He recognized that Brownie Wise was nothing short of a marketing genius. Realizing her potential, he made her vice-president of his company at a time when female executives were a rarity. From that point forward, and for many years to come, Tupperware was sold exclusively—and successfully—at home parties.

Lillian Vernon Lillian Vernon started her mail-order business in 1951 in the kitchen of her Mount Vernon, NY home. It seemed like the perfect job for the 1950s housewife and soon-to-be mother, who wanted to work at home to make a little extra money.

She discovered she had a knack for marketing when she placed an ad in Seventeen magazine selling monogrammed handbags and belts for $7. Three months later she had orders totaling $32,000 and was on her way to becoming a female pioneer in the male-dominated mail-order catalog business.

1997 and Beyond!

The formation of WBENC in 1997 created a rich community with our 14 Regional Partner Organizations and Corporate and Government members. Together we deliver world class certification and provide a network of resources and opportunities for thousands of Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) spanning many industries across our country. Our community has continued to forge the path that these early pioneers of entrepreneurship started centuries ago. WBENC-certified WBEs continue to contribute to the history of women in business, their journeys are inspiring as well as fruitful, helping to fuel our nation’s economic growth, creating jobs and continuing the legacy of the many great women in our past.

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FEATURES

2013 SUMMIT & SALUTE RAFFLE BENEFITS HURRICANE Sandy Relief Efforts WBENC is partnering with the American Red Cross to raise money for Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts. Many WBENC WBEs, Regional Partner Organizations, and Corporate and Government members were impacted by the fallout from the devastating storm. In recognition of this, WBENC will share a portion of the raffle proceeds with the Red Cross. Two WBENC-certified businesses are responsible for the outstanding raffle prize valued at more than $3,500. CFj Manufacturing has generously donated a beautiful, gold cuff bracelet with a blue topaz center and multi-colored stones. The DW Group is contributing a signature Legacy Bracelet that includes up to three charms or beads. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase onsite at the Summit & Salute beginning Wednesday, March 13, and will continue until 7:00 pm on Thursday, March 14. The winners will be announced during the Salute Awards Dinner. Don’t miss a great opportunity to give back and take home one-of-a-kind jewelry! For questions, please contact Paige Adams, padams@wbenc.org.

WBENC RECOGNIZES IBM FOR TEN YEARS OF SPONSORSHIP AND DEDICATION TO THE TUCKWBENC EXECUTIVE PROGRAM – WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT TO THE EDUCATION OF WBEs! Heather Cole “The Tuck-WBENC Executive Program, sponsored by IBM, gave me the nudge to focus on identifying growth opportunities by stepping back and looking at a broader picture of the services and solutions we provide. The experience helped me identify new growth areas that will result in significant expansion of my business as a reseller and implementer of IBM Business Analytic solutions. The experience also introduced me to amazing and inspiring women that I will keep connected with for years to come. Thank you IBM for this incredible experience.” – Class of 2012 Diane Wolf “Thank you IBM for your continued support of the Tuck-WBENC Executive Program. Your splendid facility set the tone of what was a week of learning comparable to none. The Tuck experience was the jumpstart my company needed to propel us to the next level of excellence.” – Class of 2012 Anna Walz “I found the IBM sponsored Tuck-WBENC Executive Program to be transformational, both professionally and personally. The week I spent on the IBM campus forced me to critically assess my business model, streamline our service/product offerings, and transition us into becoming niche experts in what we do the best – Scientific Platform Development and Strategic Message Evolution. This program is a great opportunity to learn from other female business leaders and take away life lessons that can truly turn your business around.“ – Class of 2010

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

FEATURES

GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT: Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program: A Change Has Come On the last day of 2012, President Obama signed the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which outlined all of the specific and special projects the Department of Defense is authorized to pursue. As a result of the signing, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced on January 22, 2013, there would be changes to the WOSB Federal Contracting Program. Good news… womenowned small businesses (WOSBs) can get a bigger piece of the $400 billion dollar contracting pie.

The WOSB Federal Contracting Program was established in 2011 as a procurement mechanism to ensure WOSBs have equal opportunity to participate in federal contracting. Previously contracting officers were able to set aside contracts within specific industries; however, the anticipated award could not exceed $6.5M for manufacturing contracts and $4M for all other contracts. The NDAA eliminates the contract thresholds granting WOSBs more access to contract opportunities free of limitations or restrictions to the value of the contract.

The SBA also announced as a part of the new law that another study will be conducted to identify additional industries underrepresented by women-owned small businesses, which will add to the current list of set aside NAICS codes.

The inclusion of additional industries will increase the number of WOSBs eligible to participate in the WOSB Federal Contracting program.

WOSBs should stayed tuned to www.sba.gov for updates to the program as opportunities become available.

Important Upcoming Events:

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?

23rd Annual Government Procurement Conference (OSDBU) Walter E. Washington Convention Center Thursday, April 25, 2013 8 AM – 5 PM REGISTER NOW http://www.fbcinc.com/e/procurement/default.aspx

1. Network with over 500 Government attendees representing 50 Federal, State and local agencies.

2. Meet Prime Contractors with teaming and mentor-protégé opportunities.

3. Participate in MatchMaker sessions (one-on-one meetings)… must be one of the first 500 registrants!!!!

4. Network with other WOSBs for potential partnership opportunities.

5. Receive up-to-date industry information via workshops offered.

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CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: Northrop Grumman award

Phyllis Bresler, President and CEO, PW Communications, Inc. PW Communications, Inc., Receives Prestigious Award for Supplier Excellence in Government Proposal Preparation Services

PW Communications, Inc., based in Rockville, MD, was selected to receive the 2012 Northrop Grumman Supplier Excellence Award in recognition of outstanding proposal support services. PW Communications is the first supplier specializing in proposal support services to receive this award, which was given in recognition of superior performance in management, performance, schedule, costs, quality, mission assurance, and supply chain management.

As a premier provider of proposal support services, PW Communications has earned its reputation as the “go to” company during the past 16 years, working with clients that represent world-class businesses with high expectations of winning major contracts. PW Communications’ substantial growth and unparalleled success is a result of their commitment to providing extraordinary services to their valued clients. Their mission is to assist their clients by providing proposal support services that make a difference.

Phyllis Bresler, President and CEO of PW Communications, founded the company in 1996, responding to what she considered to be a major void in the proposal consulting arena: screening and vetting qualified proposal professionals, setting performance standards and paying consultants promptly. Bresler has more than 25 years of experience managing and writing proposals for myriad companies, including GE where she worked early in her career, as well as a variety of government agencies, such as the Departments of Defense, Justice, and Homeland Security. She has worked on some of the largest government procurement projects ever released for bid and knows what it takes to help companies, big and small, win very large contracts. Bresler knows that “there’s no such thing as a second chance in the proposal business.”

Bresler has been a WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) since 2011. She is also a member of the Women’s Presidents’ Organization (WPO). Bresler realizes great value in her affiliation with both organizations:

“ Many of our clients are major corporations, including the country’s largest government contractors. These companies have diversity goals,” said Bresler. “As a small woman-owned business, we

PRESIDENT’S REPORT are an integral part of their diversity programs. Although PW Communications was established over 16 years ago, I did not become familiar with WBENC certification until I joined WPO where many of the members are WBENC-certified. Once I became familiar with WBENC and its role in helping women-owned businesses, I realized PW Communications needed the certification. It validates everything we say we are and is trusted by many corporations. We proudly advocate our WBENC affiliation.”

Bresler is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and also a recent graduate of the 2012 TUCK-WBENC Executive Program, an intensive, five-day executive development program for WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs). The TUCK-WBENC learning experience focuses primarily on increasing the competitive advantage and robustness of the participant’s own business. Bresler found significant value as a program participant:

Phyllis Bresler President and CEO, PW Communications

“ Participating in the TUCK program was a gift to myself. As a proposal support services company, we are constantly under pressure; it’s the nature of the business. For the entire week, I was able to step back and revisit the business fundamentals. Every lecture was thoughtprovoking. We had the privilege of learning from, and getting to know, extraordinary professors from one of the premier business schools.

Ideas flowed, and every member of the class was willing and eager to share their personal experiences, both good and bad. Every day left me thinking about how or if I should do things differently to ensure my company is run efficiently and continues to be the “go to” proposal support service provider we have come to be. The lifelong friendships that developed during the week simply speak for themselves. We had a remarkable class of inspiring women!” said Bresler. “ No matter what, it is important to continue to educate yourself. There are new and different ways to look at how your business is run; be open-minded to change. There is no room for complacency when you’re building your business.”

Bresler is a frequent guest lecturer on Entrepreneurship at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. She currently serves on an Advisory Committee to Monument Bank, in Bethesda, MD, and is very active in many charities, including Team Rubicon and The Wounded Warrior Project. She is married to Sidney Bresler and the proud mother of Alex, Jonathan and Amanda Bresler.

For more information about PW Communications and its services, please visit their website: www.pwcommunications.com.

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CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: KEELI JERNIGAN, PRESIDENT & CEO, TRANS-EXPEDITE INC. AND MARY SINGER, PRESIDENT & CEO, CRG2 SUSTAINABLESOLUTIONS “CONNECT” at 2012 NATIONAL CONFERENCE & BUSINESS FAIR (NCBF) WBEs “Walking the Talk” and Doing Business Together

Sustainability reporting has become an important 21st century business driver for major corporations. As a result, their suppliers are expected to participate in community relations as part of 21st century business operations and adhere to sustainability requirements which are here to stay. As supply chain partners, two WBENC-Certified Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) show that being environmentally and socially responsible, while making a profit, can also enhance their own Corporate Social Responsibility Reporting (CSR).

CRG² SustainableSolutions’ CEO/Founder, Mary Singer, met Keeli Jernigan, CEO/ President of Trans-Expedite Inc., at the 2012 WBENC National Conference & Business Fair (NCBF). They connected and swapped business cards, not realizing that needs and solutions would re-connect them within three months.

Trans-Expedite Inc. is a full service logistics company which provides a single source solution of warehousing, inventory and distribution to their clients. Jernigan is interested in positioning her company internally/externally as one that cares about her community and the resources or waste that is generated from her business which includes gas emissions.

CRG² SustainableSolutions works with governments, corporations, supply chain and customer networks to eliminate waste, improving the social, environmental and economic results which are the three bottom line wins for today’s businesses.

Sustainable practices extend from the large government and corporate level, both up and down the supply chain which is driving change in smaller markets.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Trans-Expedite Inc. needed help in meeting a quick deadline for environmental reporting requested by one of their Fortune 100 customers in the technology sector.

Keeli contacted Mary for help.

The finished assignment translates into the baseline story for Trans-Expedite’s first CSR report and becomes a bigger story reflecting the value they add to future supply chain partnerships.

Additional services that are being discussed between Trans-Expedite Inc. and CRG² SustainableSolutions include: • Internal integrity-based communications training.

• Further reducing, reusing, recycling of products.

• Employee training on Trans-Expedite’s new strategy around sustainability.

KEELI JERNIGAN President and CEO, Trans-Expedite Inc.

MARY SINGER President and CEO, CRG² SustainableSolutions

Mary and Keeli are both looking for ways to help other women to enact environmental and social initiatives and give back for stronger communities as they “JOIN FORCES. SUCCEED TOGETHER.” They are setting the example of how WBE-WBE connections can help present a stronger value proposition, build capacity and result in business growth.

Both of these successful WBEs are being recognized next month at the WBENC Summit & Salute as 2013 Women’s Business Enterprise Stars. Their success and leadership led to their Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs) bestowing this honor on each of them.

Jernigan is actively engaged in the Women’s Business Council Southwest serving as the Secretary on the Executive Committee of the Board and is a member of the El Paso Territory Committee. She is also a member of the WBENC Marketing and Programming Committee as well as participates as a National Forum Committee Representative.

Singer is the Regional Director for Women’s Business Enterprise Council-South and contributes on many levels. She will begin serving on The Forum in March, 2013.

For more information about Trans-Expedite Inc. please visit their website: http://www.trans-expedite.com For more information about CRG² SustainableSolutions, please visit their website: http://crgsustainablesolutions.com

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Certification

WBE SUCCESS STORY: FOCUS ON THE FORUM

Brenda Loube, Principal and Founder, Corporate Fitness Works Brenda Loube is Principal and Co-Founder of Corporate Fitness Works, a national fitness consulting and management company that strives to “Move Everybody”. Brenda is an ambitious business owner, author, and speaker who has devoted her life to fitness, health promotion and disease prevention. She lives her passion daily by practicing and advocating wellness.

Corporate Fitness Works is an industry leader in the design and development of high-energy corporate, government, and residential fitness programs which provide tailored solutions to establish, maintain and manage fitness facilities and equipment.

Their objective is to advance the population’s health and physical activity. In a fully collaborative style, Brenda and the Corporate Fitness Works team partner with corporate and community leaders to create cultures of healthy, active people. Brenda is devoted to expanding Corporate Fitness Works by establishing additional on-site fitness centers and programs in organizations around the nation.

Brenda and business partner, Sheila Drohan, turned their 1980 vision, to create on-site fitness programs that foster optimum health, into an established business in 1988. Corporate Fitness Works is celebrating their 25th year in business and maintain a solid commitment to their mission and to their clients by bringing “wellness into work”. Brenda is a leader in promoting the philosophy and strategy behind healthy, positive work cultures and remains motivated to further develop her business. These incentives provide new employment opportunities and professional growth for those in health promotion, fitness and wellness fields.

BRENDA LOUBE Principal and Co-Founder, Corporate Fitness Works

As an author, Brenda recently published, “You Can Play”, a leadership book for women of all ages. It brings a renewed opportunity to live life with improved success, health and happiness simply by starting and maintaining a lifelong commitment to play.

Brenda writes the monthly “Women on Wellness” column for WBENC’s President’s Report.

As a speaker, Brenda has presented at regional and national conferences on various topics which include physical activity, women’s health, heart disease prevention, life balance, healthy cultures, aging well and worksite wellness. She has also participated in several presentation forums: Women’s Business Development Centers (WBDC) – Chicago and Florida; National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO); the International Association for Worksite Health Promotion (IAWHP); International Council on Active Aging (ICAA); and Maryland Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Corporate Fitness Works has been WBENC-Certified since 2001. Brenda’s energy flows into her eagerness to help other WBENC-Certified Businesses realize the value of being part of the bigger picture:

“ Being a member of the WBENC Community has proven to be an amazing benefit to me, personally, and has enriched my knowledge of the business world. The number of accessible resources is unparalleled and provides invaluable insight and solid business solutions which have helped Corporate Fitness Works to grow,” said Brenda. “WBENC Certification has strengthened our position and opened doors to new opportunities with corporate members.”

Brenda has served on The Forum for five years during which time she has contributed to numerous committees, volunteered as a site interviewer during the certification/ recertification processes and supported The Legacy Program from its inception.

Brenda has recently been nominated to serve on the 2013 WBENC Board of Directors representing The Forum, achieving one of her goals.

Brenda, along with Corporate Fitness Works’ award winning programs, has received national recognition: 2006 WBENC Women’s Business Enterprise Star Award; WPEO Outstanding Women Business Enterprises Award; Club Industry’s Top 100 Fitness Companies in the United States; and the Fitness Management NOVA 7 Website & New Technology Award.

As a “voice of WBENC” she shares her ideas with other WBEs on how to fully engage in membership in order to achieve the greatest benefits.

“ My approach to helping others is to share professional experiences that have helped my company to grow and my role as an industry leader to expand. My objective is to support and be a viable resource with the new initiative within WBENC to “Join Forces. Succeed Together.”

Brenda presently serves as the Board Chair for the American Breast Cancer Foundation, is a Board Member of the International Association for Worksite Health Promotion and is an advisory member of the International Council on Active Aging.

Brenda earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physical Education from Towson University in Maryland and a Master’s of Science degree in Physical Education with an emphasis in Cardiac Rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. She has served as an adjunct professor for Cardiovascular Health at Marymount University.

For more information about Corporate Fitness Works, please visit their website: http://www.corporatefitnessworks.com.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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Certification

WBE SUCCESS STORY: 2013 NCBF Host Committee Member The Bureau: Lynne Alexander

Lynne Alexander, Chair and CEO of The Bureau, (Bureau of Engraving, Inc.), has a rich history with this 115-year-old national commercial printing business based in Minneapolis.

Alexander’s appointment as CEO was a clear statement of commitment to promote women and minorities within The Bureau and the printing industry which also made the organization unique by being female owned and operated. Alexander chairs the Board, most of whose members are women.

Prior to this role, Alexander served on The Bureau’s Board of Directors for over 25 years during which time she assumed several leadership roles orchestrating expansion, innovation and aggressive growth for the organization. She has also influenced significant changes in the configuration of The Bureau’s human resources by creating a competitive edge for the company, focused on attracting talented women and minority employees to the organization. Today, diversity is a core value of The Bureau. Alexander is credited with hiring practices that have led women and minorities to account for almost 50 percent of the company’s workforce. Alexander knows that the firm’s diverse workforce can be an advantage when bidding on print contracts for large corporations which demand diversity among its vendors.

LYNNE ALEXANDER Chair and CEO, The Bureau (Bureau of Engraving, Inc.)

The Bureau’s history dates back to 1898 when a young and adventurous artist named Edwin F. Bauer was headed cross country by train and decided to disembark in Minneapolis. Bauer enjoyed the energy of the thriving city as well as the people so much that he decided to stay and start a commercial art company named the Bureau of Design. The company was later sold to John Colgate Buckbee, Alexander’s greatgrandfather and has remained in the family for over 100 years.

The Bureau of Engraving, Inc. was incorporated in 1906 at which time was given the name it has today. At the time of incorporation, Alexander’s great grandmother sold her jewelry to keep the company going which reveals the importance of women to the company throughout its legacy. She was The Bureau of Engraving’s first shareholder and held more shares than her husband held. She was the true founder of the corporation; however, in 1906 males were named as the founders of record.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT The Bureau of Engraving, Inc. founded the Art Instruction Schools in 1914 intending to train illustrators for the growing printing industry —particularly for The Bureau itself. The school’s growth in popularity led to added fields of instruction including cartooning, color, perspective drawing and other art lessons. Charles Schulz, the late “Peanuts” cartoonist, was a student and instructor at the Bureau’s Art Institute.

Scholarships endowed by Schulz continue to be awarded by the school in his name.

Alexander feels that she is living the dream which she shared with her grandfather many years ago of wanting to run The Bureau of Engraving “one day”.

Alexander has developed a strong working relationship with the Women’s Business Development Center-Chicago (WBDC) staff and is ready, willing and excited to support their efforts relative to hosting the 2013 WBENC National Conference and Business Fair (NCBF) in Minneapolis. As a WBENC NCBF Host Committee member, Alexander serves as a conference ambassador reaching out to multiple business sectors within her Regional Partner Organization (RPO) area, WBDC-Chicago, which includes not only other women business owners but also area businesses that may be interested in corporate membership. She encourages participation at NCBF by providing information about the values of attending the event and sharing her personal success story which includes the benefits of WBENC certification.

Lynne began her career in retail management working for 27 years for Dayton’s Department Stores, the founder/parent of Target stores. Alexander moved on to the graphics design field and owned a consulting business from 1991 - 2009, working with small and mid-sized businesses. Each experience brought credence to Lynne’s in-depth knowledge in the printing and retail businesses which gave her a unique understanding of the printing, point-of-purchase signage and related services most needed by The Bureau’s customers. The Bureau provides the latest technology in digital printing, packaging/labels and analytical marketing services to many of the biggest names in retail which recall Dayton’s strong reputation. As new technologies provide possibilities that capture the imagination, The Bureau will deliver them to their customers with the same passion as they have for over 100 years.

For more information about The Bureau and its services, please visit their website: www.thebureau.com.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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OPPORTUNITIES

Summit & Salute: HOW TO PREPARE CAPITALIZE ON YOUR INVESTMENT OF TIME AT THIS YEAR’S SUMMIT & SALUTE!

Please review these 5 tips to make valuable connections during WBENC’s Summit & Salute taking place March 13-14 in Baltimore, MD. Remember, done right, networking can lead to new business opportunities. The Summit & Salute is a great platform for initiating relationships that you can build on at the National Conference & Business Fair (NCBF).

1. Network with a Purpose A company’s goals might be to meet 10 specific people during the two-day event.

Make a list of who they are, and be diligent about seeking them out.

2. Do Your Homework The Summit & Salute’s more intimate atmosphere and recognition facets makes it a wonderful time to meet representatives from America’s Top Corporations as well as high capacity Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs). Visit www.wbenc.org/summit-salute and click on Top Corporations and Business Stars to view the honorees. In addition, select the Sponsor List tab to view the long list of companies supporting the Summit & Salute all of which will have terrific representation at the event. Review their websites, annual reports and other data to be prepared for a productive conversation when you meet them.

3. Be Genuine People do business with people they know and trust. Use the initial introduction to speak authentically about yourself and your business. Be succinct, genuine, friendly and honest about the solutions your firm can provide. This is a great time to perfect a 30-second elevator pitch and to be ready to use it when making connections. When that person has an opportunity come up in your area, you want them to think of you.

4. Show Interest in the Other Person It is great to talk about yourself and your firm, but it is also important to listen as well. Making a real connection comes with listening to the other person. If you have done your homework, you can also ask educated questions about their company’s goals and what solutions they need.

5. Always Follow Up Don’t let all your hard work and research go to waste…follow-up! Set yourself apart by sending a handwritten note, followed-up by an email with your firm’s capabilities. Include something from the conversation in the note, to let them know you were listening to them and not just focused on yourself. Don’t forget to tell them you will see them at WBENC’s National Conference & Business Fair in June!

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

OPPORTUNITIES

2013 SUMMIT & SALUTE KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Dr. Marci Rossell, Former Chief Economist for CNBC A Roadmap to Economic Recovery: Groundbreaking explanation of just how we got into this mess and how we get out of it.

WBENC is pleased to announce that Dr. Marci Rossell is the keynote speaker for the 2013 Summit & Salute to Women’s Business Enterprises. Her animated style was honed when she served as the popular and lively Chief Economist for CNBC in the months immediately following September 11th. She appeared every morning on the network’s flagship program “Squawk Box” covering, throughout the day, the economy, the Federal Reserve, and the bond market.

Prior to her career in broadcast journalism, Marci served as Corporate Economist and DR. MARCI ROSSELL Former Chief Economist, CNBC

Investment Spokesperson for Oppenheimer Funds, one of the nation’s largest mutual fund companies. Before moving to Wall Street, she was an expert witness for Deloitte and Touche in court cases involving economic issues. Marci began her career as an economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

Marci earned a Ph.D. in Economics from Southern Methodist University, where she was named one of the Young Alumni of the Year in 2002. In addition to Marci’s engaging and informative keynote address, the Summit & Salute is packed with networking opportunities, enriching workshop sessions, meetings with America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises and the presentation of this year’s 14 Women’s Business Enterprise Stars. The Summit’s programming focuses on

Don’t miss early bird registration!

Only Certified WBE Summit & Salute and Summit-only ticket holders registered by January 24, 2013 will qualify for Meet and Greet and Multi Tier One-on-One networking sessions.

MARCH 13-14, 2013 HILTON BALTIMORE

building and honing skills, leveraging expertise and building capacity – enabling us to continue on our Road to Growth and Sustainability. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to “Join Forces and Succeed Together.” Register today at www.wbenc.org/summit-salute!

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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OPPORTUNITIES

2013 WBENC NATIONAL CONFERENCE & BUSINESS FAIR: REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Co-Chairs: Artech Information Systems LLP, KellyMitchell Group, Target, The Coca-Cola Company

The 2013 WBENC National Conference & Business Fair (NCBF) takes place June 25-27 at the Hilton Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, MN.

WBENC’s 14th annual Conference represents the year’s best opportunity to spotlight women-owned businesses in front of the world’s largest corporations, government agencies and other women-owned businesses. Each is committed to doing business with WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) and WBENC WBEs certified through the United States Small Business Administration’s Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program (WOSB). Over 3,000 individuals representing Fortune 1000 corporations, Government agencies, and women-owned businesses attend this prestigious conference. The high caliber workshops will focus on economic impact and job creation; entrepreneurial training; innovation; technology and sustainability; and the best ways to access capital and develop new markets.

Go to www.wbenc.org/wbencconf to register and make your hotel reservations today.

Learn more about the benefits of attending and consider increasing your presence by exhibiting. Early bird deadline is April 12, 2013. WBENC-certified WBEs must register before May 15, 2013 to be eligible for MatchMaker Meetings, one on one sessions with corporate and government procurement representatives.

Who’s going to be there? Click here to view current sponsors. For more information on how to become a sponsor, contact Paige Adams at padams@wbenc.org.

June 25-27, 2013

Minneapolis, Mn Minneapolis Convention Center

Join us For tHe larGest national ConFerenCe For WoMen-oWneD Businesses in tHe usa! partiCipate in Gener al sessions, netWorkinG anD WorksHops! eXHiBit at tHe Business Fair BuilD anD Hone Your Business skills lever aGe eXpertise BuilD Your CapaCitY

RegisteR today wbenc.org/wbencconf Early Bird attendee Discount through april 12, 2013 Host CounCil

2013 Co-Chairs

Join ForCes. suCCeeD toGetHer.

Women’s Business Development Center - Chicago

Host CoMMittee CHair

Smead Manufacturing Company

Host CoMMittee

FEaTUrED sPoNsors

ARCTURIS Creative Resources Enterforce, Inc. Global Capital, Ltd. Innovative Office Solutions INTREN KNOCK, inc.

National Van Lines Rose International, Inc. Tembua: The Precision Language Solution The Bureau

ContriButinG partner sponsors

www.wbenc.org/wbencconf

A10 Clinical Solutions, Inc. Accenture ALOM Altria Group, Inc. ASAP Solutions Group, LLC Avis Budget Group, Inc. BP America Inc. Chevron DTE Energy Energy Future Holdings

Exxon Mobil Corporation General Mills Hired by Matrix, Inc. IBM Corporation ICON Information Consultants LP Imagen Kenco Microsoft Corporation MYCA PepsiCo, Inc. Pfizer Inc Pitney Bowes Inc. Private Eyes PS Energy Group, Inc. Quigley-Simpson Raytheon Company Shell Strategic Staffing Solutions Superior Workforce Solutions, Inc. Trans-Expedite Inc. WalMart|Sam’s Club Wells Fargo Women Presidents’ Organization Women’s Business Enterprise Council PA-DE-sNJ

leaD sponsors

Alcatel-Lucent AT&T Bank of America Best Buy Cargill CSS Building Services, Inc Dakkota Integrated Systems LLC

General Motors Company, LLC Office Depot Pacific Gas and Electric Company Robert Half International, Inc. Staples, Inc. Verizon W.W. Grainger, Inc.

proGraM sponsors Allstate Insurance Company Arbill D.W. Morgan Company, Inc.

platinuM sponsors 3M ACT-1 Group Aflac Amgen Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. Brocade Capital One Chrysler Group LLC Ernst & Young LLP Ford Motor Company Johnson & Johnson Macy’s, Inc. Nina Hale, Inc. Time Warner Inc. TOYOTA U.S. Bank United Airlines

SPONSORS AS OF MARCH 1, 2013

RECOGNITION

MBN USA Magazine Names 2012 Ambassadors for Supplier Diversity

(Reprinted with permission from MBN USA)

WBENC is pleased to recognize our Corporate Members and Board Members who received this honor.

Recognizing excellence in the diverse business community, MBN USA magazine has released its inaugural Ambassadors of Supplier Diversity list, a compilation of the nation’s leading supplier diversity professionals. The honorees were announced in the MBN USA Chrome Edition that recently debuted at the annual National Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.® Conference and Business Opportunity Fair.

The Ambassadors of Supplier Diversity are a representation of an unwavering commitment to connect diverse suppliers with increased access among our nation’s purchasing communities. The 2012 honorees and their respective companies include: Accenture – Ray Toomer Accenture – Carol Attak Aetna Inc. – Kristen Hickey Alabama Power Co. – Alice Gordon Alcatel-Lucent – Mark Artigues Allstate Insurance Co. – Margaret Klinsport Altria Group Inc. – Rueben Turner Ameren Corp. – James Keating Ameren Corp. – Kendra Austin American Airlines – Robin Pulford American Express Co. – Gladys Lopez Apple Inc. – Maurice Webb Archer Daniels Midland Co. – Amber Potts AT&T Inc. – Marianne Strobel Avis Budget Group Inc. – Lynn Boccio Bank of America Corp. – Hilary Sharon BBVA Compass Bancshares Inc. – Silas Carter BMW Manufacturing Co. – Louise Connell BNSF Railway Co. – Lynn Baker The Boeing Co. – Barbara Taylor BP America Inc. – Debra Jennings-Johnson Cardinal Health – Cathy Mock Cargill Inc. – John Taylor CDW Corp. – Mark Key CenterPoint Energy – Jewel Smith Chevron Corp. – Ron Rodrigues Chrysler Group LLC – Kevin Bell

Cintas Corp. – Pamela Coleman The Coca-Cola Co. – Terrez Thompson Comerica Bank – Teresa LeFevre ConAgra Foods Inc. – Chris Liu Consolidated Edison Inc. – Michael Jones-Bey Cummins Inc. – Gordon Fykes CVS Caremark Corp. – Monette Knapik Dell Inc. – Cyndi Hopkins Delta Air Lines – Karmetria Dunham Burton DTE Energy Co. – John Eley Energy Future Holdings – Cheryl Stevens Entergy Corp. – Walter Loyd Ericsson Inc. – Terri Whitt Ernst & Young LLP – Theresa Harrison Exelon Corp. – Emmett Vaughn ExxonMobil Corp. – Aline Presley Ford Motor Co. – Carla Traci Preston General Motors Co. – Linda Ware Hewlett-Packard Development Co. LP – Brian Tippens Honda North America Inc. – Paula Carter IBM Corp. – Michael K. Robinson Johnson Controls Inc. – Reginald Layton Johnson & Johnson Services Inc. – Veronica Manuel-Gilbert JPMorgan Chase & Co. – Diana Domenech Kellogg Co. – Cathy Kutch

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Kelly Services Inc. – Brenda Marshall KeyBank – Poppie Parish Kraft Foods Inc. – Vickie Hsi The Kroger Co. – Denise Thomas Lockheed Martin Corp. – Sam Evans Macy’s, Inc. – James Stocks MeadWestvaco Corp. – Timothy Wright Merck & Co. Inc. – Saunjah Powell-Pointer Microsoft Corp. – Fernando Hernandez Navistar Inc. – Allen Gray Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. – Antoine Bennett Nissan North America Inc. – Daniel Boren Nordstrom Inc. – Sandra Loza Northrop Grumman Corp. – Gloria Pualani Novation LLC – Jeff Auvenshine NRG Energy Inc. – Che’ McFerrin Pacific Gas & Electric Co. – Joan Kerr Pepco Holdings Inc. – Rhonda Mencarini PepsiCo Inc. – Ricardo Barrientos Pfizer Inc. – Ansa Yiadom Phillips 66 Co. – Hubert Jones Pitney Bowes Inc. – Lawrence Wooten

The Procter & Gamble Co. – Dwain Carver Prudential Financial Inc. – Beth Canning Shell Energy North America – Debra Stewart Sodexo Inc. – Darlene Fuller Texas Instruments Inc. – Shannon Suber Time Warner Inc. – Greta Davis Toyota (TEMA) – Adrienne Trimble Tyco Electronics Corp. – Kevin Brown United Airlines Inc. – Ruby McCleary United Parcel Service of America Inc. – Kathy Homeyer United Technologies Corp. – Ken Kanyagui Verizon Communications Inc. – Donna Weaver-Erhardt Volkswagen Group of America – Keith L. Eakins Jr. Volvo Group Trucks Technology – Kirby Watson Wal-Mart Stores Inc. – Theresa Barrera We Energies – Jerry Fulmer Wells Fargo & Co. – Sonya Dukes Xcel Energy Inc. – Murugan Palani

“ T he MBN USA editorial board was absolutely thrilled to name these phenomenal individuals to the Ambassadors of Supplier Diversity list. They reflect a level of professionalism and dedication that truly makes a difference in growing and developing MWBEs,” said Jarilyn Fox, president and publisher, Business News Group and MBN USA magazine.

Supplier diversity leadership, mentoring initiatives, supplier outreach and minority business development council involvement were among the criteria considered when compiling the list. In addition to national exposure in the premier MBN USA Chrome Edition, each Ambassador received an honorary certificate to display on his or her booth during the opportunity fair.

“ This great work we call supplier diversity would not be possible were it not for the passion displayed by these Ambassadors,” said Don McKneely, chairman and CEO, Business News Group and MBN USA magazine. “We thank them for their tireless efforts and look forward to seeing them do it bigger and better in the years to come.”

To view the MBN USA Chrome Digital Edition in its entirety and to learn about America’s award-winning magazine featuring supplier diversity and inclusion, visit http://www.mbnusa.biz.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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build your own

The Bracelet as individual as you are.

WBENC has created the Legacy Bracelet as a statement of your participation and ongoing support of our organization.

Each beautiful hand-crafted sterling silver bead represents different aspects of WBENC that have made it the progressive and respected organization that it is today.

Whether you are new to certification, membership or supplier diversity and women’s entrepreneurship, you can build your own beautiful piece of jewelry that will tell the story of how you’re engaged with WBENC.

Isn’t it time to start your Legacy®?

Order Your WBENC Legacy® Online www.thedwgroup.com/wbenclegacy 1-800-704-0546

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

RECOGNITION

2013 WBENC BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH WBENC is governed by a Board of Directors that is broadly representative of the national alliance of organizations and corporations of which it is comprised and the Certified Women’s Business Enterprises it serves. The Board works to fulfill WBENC’s mission, provides governance to the organization, represents it in the community, plays the key role in setting policy for national certification standards and shares the ultimate legal and fiduciary responsibilities for its actions.

It leads national-level advocacy efforts on behalf of WBENC certified women business owners and plays an important role in raising funds and attracting new members to WBENC. There are currently 63 Board seats with representatives from three constituent groups: Corporations, The Leadership Council and The Women’s Enterprise Leadership Forum. Board members are WBENC constituents who are nominated and elected based on criteria which reflects their active contribution, engagement and commitment in helping Certified Women Owned Businesses and the WBENC Organization to achieve strategic objectives.

“ The WBENC Board of Directors are active and engaged thought leaders. Our Board model offers a diverse representation of procurement and supplier diversity executives, women business enterprises, and women’s business development leaders. All play a role in furthering WBENC’s mission whether through participation in committees, strategic planning teams, or in an advisory capacity. The leadership contributions from our Leadership Forum, Leadership Council, Board Committee Chairs and Vice Chairs in partnership with WBENC’s staff are critical to WBENC’s success. It is an honor to work with such a committed and experienced team of professionals in support of WBENC’s mission,” says Laura Taylor, WBENC Board Chair.

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council Annual Board of Directors Meeting was held at the GAYLORD NATIONAL HOTEL, NATIONAL HARBOR, MARYLAND on November 13, 2012. The 2013 Board Membership designations and elections were unanimously accomplished.

A full list or WBENC’s Board members is included on our website: http://www.wbenc.org/About-WBENC/Board-of-Directors.

WBENC extends gratitude to those who continue to serve and warmly welcomes those new to our Board. It is the result of your dynamic influences that we continue to make strides for Certified Women Business Owners, fostering diversity in the world of commerce which provides opportunities that fuel our success and create economic growth. We look forward to significant involvement and ongoing contributions of each Board Member in collective support to achieve our mission as we progress on the Road to Growth and Sustainability.

“ We look forward to significant involvement and ongoing contributions of each Board Member in collective support to achieve our mission as we progress on the Road to Growth and Sustainability,” says Pamela Prince-Eason.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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A Woman’s Palate Wine Club exclusive to WBENC is the only wine club developed for women by women and the men who support them. We focus on helping women in the wine industry share their stories and promote their beautiful wines. We have access to limited production, hard-to-find wines that are typically not available at your local store, and we carefully curate them into seasonal or holiday collections. A fine wine can make an ordinary day something special, and turn a moment into an occasion with friends, family and business associates. Visit http://www.awomanspalate.com/WBENC for more information and to join this exclusive wine club.

RECOGNITION

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

WBENC PRESIDENT EMERITUS, LINDA DENNY, RECEIVES WOMEN OF VISION AWARD Women of Vision awards are presented each year by the Arlington County Commission on the Status of Women as part of the March celebration of Women’s History Month. The awards are given to individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to women’s issues and have, over time, developed and communicated their vision for women and engaged community members and other leaders in order to realize this vision.

The award originated in 1988, and honored women and men from the community who have made outstanding contributions toward improving the lives of women and girls in Arlington. Each year, since 1998, the Commission honors women who are recognized for their accomplishments and contributions to improving the lives and opportunities for Arlington residents, especially women.

Award recipients must live, work, or volunteer in Arlington.

LINDA DENNY President Emeritus of WBENC

This year, Linda Denny, President Emeritus of WBENC, has been honored with this award in the nonprofit category. Ms. Denny has spent many years working to better the lives and businesses of women through her work in both the non-profit and corporate arenas. She joined WBENC in early 2003 and served as vice president before being elected President and CEO in 2006 serving in that role until her retirement in 2011. During her years leading WBENC, the organization experienced substantial growth reaching over 10,000 certified women’s business enterprises (WBEs) for the first time. She was a leader in an effort to help the United States Small Business Administration create acceptable guidelines for the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program, including the use of third party certifiers such as WBENC. Each year this program makes available to certified women’s business enterprises billions of dollars in contracts with the U.S. Federal Government.

Prior to WBENC, she began her career as a teacher and subsequently became a business owner, running a manufacturing company and distribution business for five years. Following her entrepreneurial efforts, she spent over two decades in the insurance and financial services industry, serving as an agent, manager and corporate officer for New York Life Insurance Company, Aetna Financial Services and ING Insurance Company of America where she was responsible in all three corporations for national programs to provide better career opportunities and financial security for women.

Ms. Denny’s involvement with non-profit organizations began during her years in the insurance industry when she helped found the Association of Women’s Business Development Centers, served on the Women’s Leadership Board of the Kennedy School at Harvard University, was appointed in 2000 to the Board of Directors of the National Women’s History Museum, where she still serves, and as a corporate sponsor/advisor of WBENC, Women President’s Organization and many others. Later Denny served on the board of Boardroom Bound and currently serves on the board of the Forest Hills Community Association.

Most recently Ms. Denny led the planning committee for the March 1-3, 2013 Suffrage Centennial Celebration to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1913 Women’s Suffrage Parade, a turning point in the battle for women’s voting rights. Fifteen of Washington, DC’s most iconic museums, institutions, historic places and organizations joined together to celebrate with a weekend full of great exhibits, lively and informative panels and discussions, special programs, events and entertainment. Approximately 25,000 joined the Suffrage Centennial March down Pennsylvania Avenue on Sunday, March 3rd to honor the suffragists who marched 100 years ago.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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WOMEN ON WELLNESS

TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEART! Since February was Heart Health Month we want to bolster your knowledge and understanding of the risks, the signs and the symptoms of a heart attack; and to inform you of common preventative practices that can save a life (perhaps yours!).

The goal is to keep your heart strong and healthy which, ultimately, can prevent heart disease.

Here are some facts:

• Did you know that Heart Disease is the #1 killer of all women today, for all ethnic backgrounds? Less than 50% of women are aware of it. African American women are most at risk but heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death for Hispanic Women.

• Did you know that women are more likely to be both under-diagnosed and undertreated for heart disease?

•D id you know that more than 250,000 women die of heart attacks each year, compared to all of the deaths associated with cancer?

• Did you know that, in the U.S, a woman dies every minute from heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular disease?

Learning the facts about heart disease and assessing your own risk is paramount to prevention. With this information, you become a powerful advocate for your health.

Know the Risks for Heart Disease in Women

Non-Controllable Risk Factors • You have a family history of premature coronary artery disease or stroke (occurring in male family members younger than 55, or in female family members younger than 65).

• You are age 55 or older.

• You are post-menopausal, or have had your ovaries removed.

• During any pregnancies you had, you experienced pre-eclampsia (significant high blood pressure) or gestational diabetes, or you delivered a low-birthweight baby.

A family history of premature cardiac disease, especially in a sister or brother, may be a particularly important risk factor in women. Women who have such a family history need to be particularly aggressive.

Controllable Risk Factors • Being overweight or obese.

• Sedentary lifestyle (little to no exercise).

• Smoking.

• High blood pressure.

• High total cholesterol, and/or low HDL cholesterol.

• A diagnosis of diabetes.

• A diagnosis of metabolic syndrome.

• Increased C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.

• Using birth control pills, especially if you are also a smoker.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a relatively “new” risk factor that may be more important in women than in men.

Increased CRP levels indicate active inflammation, and a high CRP level usually can be assumed to mean that blood vessel inflammation is present. Especially in women, inflammation is thought to be a major factor in the erosion or rupture of coronary artery plaques.

Know the ABCs of Women’s Heart Disease Symptoms!

Angina: chest discomfort, tightness in the chest, fullness or pain.

Breathlessness: experienced during activities or waking up breathless at night.

Chronic Fatigue: extreme tiredness; an inability to finish routine activities at home or work.

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Dizziness: can indicate irregular heartbeats, or “arrhythmias.”

Edema: swelling, particularly of the lower legs and ankles.

Fluttering Heartbeats: rapid heartbeats that may cause pain or difficulty breathing.

Gastric Upset: nausea, unrelated to diet.

Heartburn: some women describe their heart-related pain in this way.

The truth about having a heart attack is that it can start slowly, as a mild pain or discomfort. If you feel ‘funny’ or ‘different,’ you may not know what is really wrong with you as the sensations can come and go. The inconsistency of symptoms is also puzzling as they could be altogether different than what you were feeling earlier.

IF YOU DO THINK YOU ARE HAVING A HEART ATTACK, YOU MUST ACT QUICKLY TO PREVENT DISABILITY OR DEATH. CALL 911 RIGHT AWAY. DO NOT WAIT A SECOND. Don’t let anyone tell you that you are overreacting or to wait and see. Get medical help right away. Ask for tests to rule out the possibility that you are having a heart attack.

Women often describe a “fullness” or “tightness” in the chest rather than pain, and they can have isolated discomfort in the jaw, left or right arm, or abdomen.

Prevention is the Key

Take control by living a healthy lifestyle •H ave a healthy low saturated fat, low salt and cholesterol food plan.

• Do regular physical activity for 30-60 minutes a day.

• Refrain from smoking.

• Control your stress.

• Maintain a healthy body weight.

Simple changes—one step at a time—can help go along way. Don’t smoke, be active, understand and alleviate stress in your life, keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check, and listen and be attentive to your body.

Laughter is considered the heart medicine. A good belly

Sometimes, women have unusual tiredness or shortness of breath for up to one month before a heart attack. A woman will complain of other symptoms, such as nausea, fatigue, indigestion, anxiety, and dizziness.

laugh can send 20% more blood flowing through your entire body. One study found that when people watched a funny movie, their blood flow increased. That’s why laughter might just be the perfect antidote to stress. When you laugh, the lining of your blood vessel walls relaxes and expands. Have a good giggle! Your heart will thank you.

The most important message: If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention. The sooner you receive treatment, the greater your chance is to have a healthy outcome.

To have the Best Year of Your Life, you must take care of your Heart!

To view an informative video on detecting heart disease click here: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/video/ detecting-womens-heart-disease.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » FEBRUARY/MARCH EDITION 2013 »

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