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New Jersey’s leading business organizations and sponsors are hosting the 12th Annual Women Business Leaders Forum on September 23-24 at Bally’s Atlantic City. The two-day conference brings together corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and students to advance women in leadership roles and inspire professional growth across the state.
The forum opens September 23 with remarks from New Jersey Chief Operating Officer Kellie Doucette at 5 p.m. Over the two days, attendees will hear executive-style talks, participate in more than 70 breakout sessions led by speakers and panelists, and connect with peers in networking settings. The event aims to increase diversity in corporate leadership, support business success, and create opportunities for women at all career stages.
The conference honors women who have shaped New Jersey’s professional landscape. Kim Guadagno, the state’s first female Lieutenant Governor, receives the annual Caren Franzini Leadership Award for her trailblazing public service and nonprofit work.
2026 Award Recipients
Five women and leaders are recognized for excellence across sectors. Chrissy Buteas, President and CEO of the HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, receives the Women for Change Award. The Community Impact Award goes to Christina Renna, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey.
Reshma Saujani, Founder and CEO of Moms First and Founder of Girls Who Code, receives the Women in Advocacy Award for her work advancing opportunity for women in technology and motherhood. Rick Thigpen, Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at Public Service Enterprise Group, is honored with the EmpowerHER Award. Briana Vannozzi, News Anchor at NJ Spotlight News, receives the Women in Media Award.
Event Details and Media Access
The forum features more than 100 prominent women speakers across diverse industries and roles. The full conference agenda and speaker biographies are available on NJBIA’s Women Business Leaders Forum page.
Members of the media interested in covering the conference should contact Bob Considine before the event begins. The forum is powered by Citizens and supported by more than 30 corporate sponsors and partners, including AT&T, Johnson & Johnson, PSEG, PNC Bank, and Girl Scouts of New Jersey.
The event brings together women at all professional levels to build networks, learn from leaders in their fields, and develop strategies for advancing careers and businesses. For organizations seeking to support women in leadership, the forum offers visibility and partnership opportunities with New Jersey’s most engaged business community.
Frequently asked questions
When is the NJBIA Women Business Leaders Forum?
The 12th Annual Women Business Leaders Forum takes place September 23-24, 2026, at Bally’s Atlantic City, opening with remarks from New Jersey’s Chief Operating Officer.
Who receives awards at the 2026 Women Business Leaders Forum?
Kim Guadagno receives the Caren Franzini Leadership Award. Chrissy Buteas, Christina Renna, Reshma Saujani, Rick Thigpen, and Briana Vannozzi receive awards for leadership across healthcare, community impact, advocacy, corporate citizenship, and media.
How many speakers will attend the Women Business Leaders Forum?
The forum features more than 100 prominent women speakers across 70+ breakout sessions covering diverse industries and professional roles.
Who should attend the Women Business Leaders Forum?
The event brings together corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, and students to advance diversity in leadership and build successful businesses.
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