Mission and Values

  • Contacts
  • Coaching
  • Collaboration
  • Community

Our History

The South Shore Women’s Business Network (SSWBN) was founded in 1991 by six visionary women who recognized that the needs of women in business were not being met by traditional networking organizations. They set out to create a space where professionals could build meaningful connections, share resources, and support one another’s growth in an authentic and collaborative way.

From those early conversations, SSWBN has grown into one of the premier networking organizations on the South Shore. While much has evolved over the years, the core purpose remains the same: to create opportunities for connection, learning, leadership, and community impact.

Throughout its history, SSWBN has continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of its members. The organization has expanded its programming to include a mix of networking events, educational workshops, and leadership opportunities, both in-person and virtual. Along the way, it has built a reputation for fostering genuine relationships, encouraging referrals and collaboration, and supporting businesses at every stage of growth.

A defining part of SSWBN’s legacy is its commitment to community. Through charitable partnerships and member-driven giving, the network has supported dozens of organizations across the South Shore, extending its impact far beyond business development.

At the heart of SSWBN’s continued success is its leadership. Each president has brought their own vision, energy, and perspective, helping to shape the organization while staying grounded in its founding principles of connection, coaching, collaboration, and community.

Collaboration:

Encourage the referral of potential clients or customers to appropriate businesse

Our Founders

  • Nancy Boyle
  • Vicki Donlan
  • Susan Hammond
  • Pat Mullaly
  • Connie Nordahl*
  • Jeanne Yocum

*Deceased

Past Presidents

  • 1992 — Nancy Boyle
  • 1993 — Jeanne Yocum
  • 1994 — Joan Ryder
  • 1995 — Marion Overhiser*
  • 1996 — Shevown Hardesty
  • 1997 — Kathleen Hassan
  • 1998 — Anne E. Holden
  • 1999 — Sandra Elmasian, M.S.
  • 2000 — Mary Ann Stilgoe
  • 2001 — Claudia Ellis
  • 2002 — Veva Johnson
  • 2003 — Kimberly Locke
  • 2004 — Barbara Case
  • 2005 — Jayne Pelosi
  • 2006 — Maria Recalde
  • 2007 — Raquel Mullaney
  • 2008 — Brenda Wornum Moore
  • 2009 — Stacey Shipman
  • 2010–2011 — Janet LaBerge
  • 2012 — Terry Martini
  • 2013 — Stacy Doherty
  • 2014–2015 — Alison Schirone
  • 2016 — Nancy O’Keefe
  • 2017–2018 — Nicole Perry
  • 2019–2020 — Allison Almar Guido
  • 2021–2022 — Lisa Dooley
  • 2023-2024 – Lynn Feingold
  • 2025-2026 – Minessa Konecky