Press Releases

Sunny skies complimented a spectacular lineup of talent at the first Women's Leadership Retreat held at the beautiful Mesa Del Sol Estate Vineyards in Arroyo Seco, CA. The event kicked off on Saturday, Oct 20, with a heartfelt and inspiring introduction by Margaret D'Arrigo-Martin, VP of Community Development with Taylor Farms. Following D'Arrigo-Martin was Denise Connors, health and fitness expert, Wholly Fit Central Coast, Maria Boisvert, Sr. VP with RBC Wealth Management, Sheila Dundon, principal and founder of RISE Leadership Forum, and Karen Nardozza, partner in Moxxy Marketing. Sunday's program featured a special guest and new personality to the West Coast, Christie Mims. Mims, a career coach and national speaker, is further the founder and principal of The Revolutionary Club based in NYC, New York and San Francisco, CA. Mims led an engaging series of exercises revisiting Saturday's topics and focusing on recognizing career goals and passions.

"Had an AMAZING day ...at the 1st annual Women's Leadership Retreat ...! Gorgeous location at Mesa Del Sol Winery in Arroyo Seco...wonderfully diverse group of women...heart-warming, inspirational session by Margaret DArrigo Martin ...everyone loved Maria Boisvert's (from RBC Wealth Management) sincerity and her sound financial advice...simple, fun and effective fitness techniques by Denise Connors (she's a hoot!)...great, thought-provoking forum with Sheila Dundon of Rise Leadership!...loved Karen Nardozza 's personal branding and marketing advice (she's definitely got "moxxy"!)...had two---yes, two!---fabulous massages by Michelle from Aquablue Spa...great food, great wine, great company...definitely looking forward to next year's event!" Susan Y., Salinas, CA.


" Margaret D'Arrigo-Martin, Denise Connors and Sheila Dundon's presentations were very inspiring and impactful. Maria Boisvert's wealth management workshop really hit home and was just what I needed to hear to take control of my finances. I now have access to resources I didn't know existed for me! I found Karen Nardozza's Personal Branding workshop very helpful for me as a new professional and really clarified the importance of one's goals and how they align with one's professional image. Her approach is something I want to share with my friends and with the rest of my team. I hope to see more opportunities like this offered to other young women.... It is just what we need to feel empowered and ready to take charge of our careers". Marissa S., Salinas, CA

"What a great weekend - Wow! Amazing ... lineup of women speakers. I am so inspired and impressed. I can't get over hearing everyone's personal journeys and the Girls, Inc. presentations were - well - incredible! You are truly on to something big and wonderful. I never want to miss an event!" Shelly R., NYC, NY

Event supported in part Girls Incorporated of the Central Coast who delivers a constellation of programs that focus on leadership and self-empowerment. Girls Inc programs offer young ladies specific knowledge regarding health, risky behaviors, healthy relationships, and academic pursuits, while developing leadership, goal setting and decision-making skills.

Robyn DaRosa and Kathy Huggins, co chairs, desired to create an event that would be "rejuvenating and refreshing" for busy women as well as give back to the local community. Plans for the 2013 Women's Leadership Retreat are already underway!

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