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In recognition of Women's History Month, the Verona Public Library and Verona Multicultural Inclusion & Accessibility Advisory Committee (MIAAC) are hosting the third annual "Women of Impact Panel" Sunday, March 23rd, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at the Verona Community Center, celebrating and honoring the achievements of extraordinary women who have made positive contributions to our community and beyond.

Join in person or virtually via Zoom. Click here to register for Zoom details

This inspiring event will spotlight women who serve as role models and catalysts for change in Verona and the greater region. The Women of Impact Panel recognizes individuals whose dedication and efforts have enriched lives through their work in fields such as business, education, healthcare, technology, arts and culture, community service, government, and more.

This panel will highlight women who are positive role models or who have made a positive impact within Verona or the greater community. Meet the panelists:

Alana Drost: Passionate volunteer and advocate for inclusion. Alana has earned multiple Special Olympic medals and plays a vital role in Ally’s Elves, bringing joy to children and families in challenging situations.

Jennifer Finnerty: Supervisor of Special Services, dedicated to education and serving as a mentoring voice to both students and their families.

Maria Force: Former Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Verona Councilwoman. The first of only two women to hold the office of Mayor in Verona Township since 1908.

Cynthia Holland: Former Deputy Attorney General in Law and Public Safety and currently General Council for Exelon Utilities, Cynthia passionately advocates for the Verona Community as our Councilwoman, while also serving as an inspiring Girl Scout Leader.

Linda Tsang: Family Law paralegal, foster mom, and volunteer for CHILD & Angels on the Ground.

Prepare for an uplifting afternoon filled with delicious treats from local women-owned businesses, including Blooms in Hand and Bake Me Pretty, as well as goodies from Jack’s Cafe and Frank Anthony’s.

Celebrate Black History Month by stepping into the world of Sofistafunk with fashion maven, Arlinda M., the inspiring Entrepreneur, Creative Director and Social Media Specialist behind Sofistafunk The Skirt Co. Stay for an exciting fashion show showcasing her funk-fabulous collection and a lively conversation led by Arlinda.

Sofistafunk is not just about selling clothing but an entire Uninhibited and Funked Up Lifestyle. -Arlinda M

With over 40 years in her field, Arlinda is a fashion designer, stylist and Social Media Influencer best known for her whimsical skirt collections for her brand, Sofistafunk The Skirt Co. based here in Verona, By Appointment Only but available online at Sofistafunk.com 24/7

One of her Skirt designs was most recently seen in People Magazine for the wedding of Actress Yvette Nicole Brown, in addition to other new book inclusions you can also see Arlinda in a newly launched children's book called Greatness by Regis and Kahran Bethencourt The Sofistafunk label has also been featured in TV, film, and various editorials.

Celebrate the Extraordinary Women of Verona! Who inspires you?!

We’re looking for nominees for the 2025 Women of Impact Panel—incredible individuals who live or work in Verona and are making a difference in surrounding communities, across the state, and beyond.

Nominate a woman who has made an impact in areas like:

• Business
• Education
• Healthcare
• Technology
• Arts & Culture
• Community Service
• Government

...and more!

How to Nominate: 

Fill out a nomination form, which can be found at VeronaLibrary.org or by picking up a nomination form at the Verona Library or Verona Community Center.

Share as much detail as possible about her contributions in every area she’s impacted. Your input helps us celebrate these amazing women and their achievements!

Nominees should be women who currently reside or work in Verona and are aged 18 years and older. Please note that previous panelists are ineligible for consideration.

Nomination deadline – February 17, 2025 

This inspiring event will be held during Women’s History Month as we honor the achievements and contributions of remarkable women in our community.

Verona Community Center

Sunday, March 23rd 3pm