Conversations with Extraordinary Women

The evening will feature networking opportunities to connect with other likeminded business owners, professionals, and community leaders.

• Meet our Panelists: Engage in an empowering conversation with our distinguished panelists:

• • Samantha Yanks is an award-winning media strategist, founder, and editor with 25 years of experience building influential, revenue-driving brands. She is Co-Founder of The Connecticut Edit, Founder & CEO of Samantha Yanks Creative, and Editor-in-Chief of Westport, Weston & Wilton Magazine. A former leader at top publications including Gotham, Hamptons, O, The Oprah Magazine, and Vogue, she is a sought-after speaker and media personality known for creating content and brand strategies that connect, engage, and deliver lasting impact.
  • Erin Byrne is a digital marketing executive with 25 years of experience spanning technology, communications, and healthcare, including senior leadership roles as Chief Digital Strategist at Burson Marsteller, a globally recognized global public relations and communications firm, and Chief Executive Officer of Grey Health Group, a nationally recognized healthcare marketing agency within the Grey and WPP network. She is the founder of ThinkSISU, helping organizations cut through digital noise and scale impact. Erin is also a small business entrepreneur and owner of Cotton Candy Fabrics, a two time “Connecticut’s Favorite Fabric Store” with locations in Brookfield and Simsbury.
  • Dr. Zulma R. Toro is a pioneering higher education leader and President of Central Connecticut State University, serving as both the institution’s first female president and first Hispanic chief executive. Her career reflects a leadership journey defined by breaking barriers, reinvention, and advancing equity in education, with senior leadership roles across major public universities driving academic excellence, inclusion, and institutional transformation.  An industrial engineer with a Ph.D. from Georgia Tech, she is known for applying systems thinking to leadership with a focus on the human side of organizations. Dr. Toro is a strong advocate for expanding opportunities for underrepresented students, particularly women in STEM.

HOW Award Presentation: Honor the recipient of the Heart of Woman Award, recognizing Jill Rae, of Ridgefield CT, in recognition of her exceptional commitment to community service beyond her professional work. She serves as a leader with Housatonic Habitat for Humanity, including Board service and Co-Chair of its Annual Fundraising event, and plays an active role in advancing affordable housing through initiatives such as the “Rae of Hope” home. Jill consistently dedicates her time and resources to support local efforts in housing, food security, youth development, and the arts, and is recognized for her steady, behind the scenes leadership and meaningful community impact.

• Purchasing tickets to attend this uplifting and empowering evening Womens Business Council – GDCC – Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce
• Connect to the movement through brand connections and sponsorship – showcase your support for women in business and leadership. For more information about ticket sales or sponsorship packages, please reach out to info@danburychamber.com  or call us at 203-743-5565.