History & Mission
And so it began….
Over 30 years ago, a group of women on the South Shore attended countless networking events, only to find that most didn’t truly meet the needs of women running their own businesses. These spaces lacked the understanding and nuance of the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face.
In 1991, gathered around a dining room table, they created the South Shore Women’s Business Network (SSWBN)—a community designed to provide meaningful networking opportunities and a supportive space for women in business. Today, we proudly continue their legacy, offering a welcoming and empowering environment where women can showcase their opportunities, grow their businesses, and tackle challenges together.
SSWBN remains a strong voice for Southeastern New England business owners, evolving to meet the needs of our members while staying true to the vision that started it all.
Join us and be part of the next chapter!
Collaboration:
Encourage the referral of potential clients or customers to appropriate businesses.
Our Founders
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Nancy Boyle
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Vicki Donlan
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Susan Hammond
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Pat Mullaly
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Connie Nordahl*
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Jeanne Yocum
*Deceased
Network 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
2010-11 Janet LaBerge
2012 Terry Martini
2013 Stacy Doherty
2014-15 Alison Schirone
2016 Nancy O’Keefe
2017-2018 Nicole Perry
2019-2020 Allison Almar Guido
2021-2022 Lisa Dooley
2023-2024 Lynn Freingold
2024-2025 Minessa Konecky

Contacts:
Provide a forum where professionals in business can network and discuss common needs for opportunities.
Coaching:
Empower and support members seeking business and business resources.
Provide a system for developing leadership skills, and education to members.
Collaboration:
Encourage the referral of potential clients or customers to appropriate businesses.
Community:
Channel the collective strength of the Network to make a positive impact on our community.