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October 3, 2024, New Haven, CT – On Tuesday, October 22, The Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame (CWHF) will host its 31st Annual Induction Ceremony at The Bushnell in Hartford to celebrate and honor some of Connecticut’s female pioneers and their incredible achievements.

The CWHF will proudly induct three women for their exceptional work, outstanding vision, and tremendous achievements. The inductees are:

  • Sara Bronin – architect, attorney, professor, and policymaker
  • Melissa Bernstein – entrepreneur, creative, author, and co-founder of Melissa & Doug toy company
  • Barbara Summers – American writer, educator, and fashion model.

In addition, CWHF will recognize three Spotlight Recipients. Spotlight Recipients are women whose contributions in their field are especially noteworthy to be distinguished and highlighted. This year, the Spotlight Recipients are:

  • Crystal Emery – renowned producer, author and filmmaker
  • Shelley Quiala – Executive Director at the International Festival of Arts and Ideas
  • Jesse Lazowski – fine jewelry designer and business entrepreneur

More information about the inductees and spotlight recipients can be found at www.cwhf.org.

“We’re excited to recognize these incredible women who have contributed greatly to various communities and causes across Connecticut,” said Raina Giddings, Executive Director, CWHF. “These creative catalysts have achieved impressive personal and professional success and continue to inspire women and girls in the state. We look forward to celebrating them at our 31st Induction Ceremony.”

While the Annual Induction Ceremony is the CWHF’s signature event, the organization has spent the past 31 years recognizing Connecticut’s female pioneers and forming a solid core of innovative educational programming designed to inspire the next generation of leaders in Connecticut and beyond. This educational programming includes lesson plans for classroom teachers, after-school program leaders, librarians, scout leaders, and other community educators to help students connect the past to the present and recognize the importance of actively shaping their future. Additionally, the Hall offers virtual and in-person programming for 4th – 8th-grade students, specialized custom programs focusing on underrepresented fields like finance and STEM, and scholarship opportunities for aspiring high school graduates. CWHF also participates in traveling exhibits, inspirational talks, webinar series, and events to spread the word about the remarkable achievements of Connecticut women.

The annual celebration plays a vital role in empowering The Hall to raise the resources it needs to continue inspiring and educating Connecticut women. If you’re interested in purchasing tickets or becoming a sponsor for the CWHF Annual Induction Ceremony in October, visit www.cwhf.org for more information.

About the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame
The Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame honors the achievements of women by celebrating their legacies and telling their powerful stories, inspiring women and girls to realize their limitless potential. The CWHF 144 Inductees are role models for women of all ages, and their stories are proof of what women can accomplish. Leveraging those powerful stories, the CWHF makes history relevant through programs for educators, multimedia presentations, and traveling exhibits. CWHF’s work fosters the courage and confidence women need to overcome barriers and advocate on their own behalf. The CWHF website, www.cwhf.org is a “virtual Hall” where visitors can explore all the CWHF has to offer.