The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Dr. France Cordova, new President of Purdue University, will be among the speakers at the 9th Annual Women’s Professional Development Conference on October 29th. This year the conference will continue to Inspire, Educate & Motivate women in the Columbus area with two national keynote speakers, as well as, several local speakers.

Dr. Córdova comes to Purdue from the University of California, Riverside, where she has served as chancellor since 2002. She previously was vice chancellor for research and a professor of physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Before that, she was the first woman and youngest person to hold the position of NASA chief scientist.

Christine Cashen, and Colette Carlson, are the two national speakers who will be giving the keynote presentations. Christine is an authority on sparking innovative ideas to handle conflict, reduce stress and energize employees. Colette Carlson, M.A., is a communication skills expert, who is passionate about the power of words. Colette inspires you to confidently say what you mean and mean what you say. Clear, direct and assertive communication results in increased professionalism, efficiency and productivity.

Familiar faces, Nancy Hankins from Studio Fit by Nancy, and Peg Sanchez from Tipton Lakes, will be presenting segments on wellness. Organization tips will be presented by Christine Rice of Organize It Today. Learn how to manage your own finances from Theresa Walker of Salin Bank.

Channel 8 meteorologist Angela Buchman will be our hostess for the day. Angela is an Indiana Native and was honored by NUVO magazine as "Best Television Weather Personality."

Turning Point will be in the “Not-for-Profit” spotlight this year. They will be providing information on prevention & detection of domestic violence from their booth.

The Chamber has been hosting the Women’s Professional Development Conference for 9 years. The conference reaches around 250 area women in all levels of the workforce. It offers a chance for women to network, be inspired, educated and motivated. During breaks, attendees have the opportunity to visit vendors which highlight local businesses.

Registrations can be made on-line at www.columbusareachamber.com.