FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 22, 2005
Contact: Gloria Gavris
617-480-3646

Swiston Vice Chairs 1 st MA Governor's Conference for Women

At 9AM , in a sunny conference room on the 13 th floor of the World Trade Center West in Boston , Greer Tan Swiston sat with some of the area's most influential women in business, education and government. They were starting their day with a rousing and inspirational presentation given by the lead organizers of this year's first Massachusetts Governor's Conference for Women. The Conference, scheduled for December 7, 2005 to be held in the new Boston Convention Center , is being co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, on which Swiston serves as a Commissioner.

"Women make-up over 50% of the population in Massachusetts , yet the decision-makers of our State are over 75% men." Swiston said. "So, it stands to reason that the status of women may require additional examination and consideration, at least until representation better reflects population. This conference will be a great opportunity to do just that. It's wonderful that it's so supported by the Governor's office. Lt. Gov. Healey is an honorary Chair of the conference!"

Governor's Conference for Women events have been happening all over the country for the past 19 years. States like Nevada , California , Pennsylvania and Texas have had tremendous success with this annual event. Over 3000 people from all across Massachusetts are expected to attend. The Conference appeals to a diverse crowd of women with differing backgrounds, experiences and life situations. It will be the first of its kind in Massachusetts and, if some have their way, the first of its kind in the country.

"We will make [the Massachusetts Governor's Conference for Women] such a success, that people will only mention those other states in passing" said Marian Heard, President & CEO of Oxen Hill Partners and Honorary Chair of the Conference. The enthusiastic crowd embraced her challenge with thunderous applause.

For more information about the upcoming conference, see www.magovernorsconferenceforwomen.org or call 978-969-1234.