Origin Story: CNY Women’s Summit

By Alex Canavan

In the hustle and bustle of our lives, there are moments that stand out; moments that change the trajectory of our journey. 

I was an administrative assistant at Equitable Advisors in 2022, this moment came with the simple question from my boss at the time, Anthony Stevens: "Hey, I think we should do something for International Women's Day. Any ideas?" Little did I know, this question would sow the seeds for something extraordinary – the CNY Women's Summit.

I went home that weekend and came back the following Monday with a vision. on January 24, 2022, I carefully proposed the idea of an in-person networking event (we were still wearing masks and the mandate was lifted only one week before summit) where women could connect, learn, and draw inspiration from local leaders. 

Despite lacking prior event planning experience, pure passion, determination, and lots of cold brew from Recess fueled the project.

Within just 5 weeks, we planned, executed, promoted, and hosted the first annual CNY Women's Summit. here's the best part: we doubled our attendance goal, and welcomed over 160 women at the summit.

This event feels sacred in a way, largely because it was the force for the establishment of the CNY Women's Network. Just two years later, I’ve had the honor of building a media brand that serves to inspire local women, connect them through various types of events, and soon, our official membership community is set to launch at the summit on March 8. 

As the event approaches (ten days out as we speak) I am filled with excitement, joy, and I can’t lie, a little bit of imposter syndrome.

To realize that I had a big dream, and the universe supported it, is truly extraordinary.

Now, just two years later, a full day of programming awaits, promising to inspire, educate, and celebrate the achievements of women in Central New York. 

Who knows what the future holds for the CNY Women's Network, but one thing is certain – its origins are rooted in a moment of inspiration and a commitment to empower women to reach their full potential.