Fort Wayne Mayor to Speak at PFW Women’s Conference

Mayor Sharon Tucker, a trailblazer in Fort Wayne city government, will be the opening speaker for the Women’s Conference at Purdue University Fort Wayne on March 25. With the theme “Moving Forward Together—Women Educating and Inspiring Generations,” the event will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the International Ballroom at Walb Student Union.

After three terms as a member of the City Council, Tucker was selected as Fort Wayne’s 37th mayor on April 23, 2024.

“I was honored to be asked to speak at the upcoming PFW Women’s Conference,” Tucker said. “I believe it’s imperative that we celebrate the value of women in our society, both locally and around the world. I’m humbled to be serving as mayor, and this conference provides me with an opportunity to encourage and support women and give them reasons for hope and optimism moving forward.“

Asked about PFW’s importance as northeast Indiana’s largest public university, Tucker said, “PFW continues to make a positive impact on our community and region. In a collaborative manner, we’re investing in people, and the leaders of tomorrow are learning valuable skills and insight on what it takes to be the very best to be competitive in a global economy. It’s critical that we continue to put a focus on education and how lifelong learning will contribute to the current and future growth and success of Fort Wayne and PFW.”

This is the third year for the event. Admission is free and open to all, but requires registration. Michelin North America is the title sponsor.

“The Women’s Conference is an important time for our campus and community to come together and celebrate women—while hearing about issues that affect women differently,” said Shubitha Kever, PFW’s associate chief diversity officer. “I have been pleased to see the growth of this event over the last three years and the new community sponsors and partners who help make it happen.”

Whitney Bandemer, owner of Fort Wayne’s WB Consulting, a consulting practice that specializes in organizational and people development, will be another featured speaker.

Along with two panel discussions featuring PFW faculty, staff, and students, other speakers will include Julie Sanchez, chief executive officer of Fort Wayne’s Expert Business Solutions.

“By coming together, we can learn from each other, explore best practices, and leave with a better sense of purpose and direction as individuals created to do great things to enhance the quality of life for all,” Tucker said.