WOW! Forum Returns for 21st Anniversary, Bringing Women Together to Unmask Their True Selves

By popular demand, the WOW! Forum is back, marking 21 years of inspiring, motivating, and empowering women across the region. This year's event, themed "Unmasking Your True Self: Owning Your Story," will take place Friday, October 23, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at CT State Community College Northwestern (Winsted). Seats are limited. Registration is now open.

"As a Chamber, we exist to support the growth and success of our entire business community. More than two decades of the WOW! Forum is a testament to what women in Northwest Connecticut have built here, and we're proud to help carry it forward," said Chamber President & CEO Ted Shafer.

A Keynote on Truth and Transformation

Kara Sundlun, news anchor and talk show host at WFSB-TV and author of Finding Dad: From "Love Child" to Daughter will keynote. In her talk, "Owning Your Story," Sundlun will draw on her own journey to explore the power of embracing one's truth, rewriting limiting narratives, and finding strength in vulnerability — setting the tone for the day ahead.

Breakout Sessions Designed to Inspire and Empower

Following the keynote, attendees will choose from two rounds of breakout sessions, each offering a choice of four topics led by accomplished speakers:

• Understanding Your SuperPower — Suzanne McColl, LPC, licensed psychotherapist, EMDR-certified therapist, and author of Reclaiming Self-Worth: The 5-Step Method to Releasing Limiting Beliefs and Feeling Worthy brings 30 years of experience helping professional women.
• Navigating Life's Transitions: Longevity, Healing & Resilience — Jacqueline A. Baldwin, FSCP®, CLTC®, financial advisor and long-term care specialist since 1986, author of The Bend in the River, offers a holistic look at the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of longevity.
• Style Without an Expiration — Mary Carangelo, Fashion Therapist®, Realtor, and author of The Secrets In Our Closet, explores the connection between clothing, confidence, and the stories women tell themselves.
• Women and Money: Changes on the Horizon — Amey Stone, nationally recognized financial journalist and editor of Barron's Advisor, shares insights from a career spanning Barron's, BusinessWeek, and CBS MoneyWatch.

Program Highlights

• 8:30 a.m. — Registration and Check-In
• 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. — Keynote Address with Kara Sundlun
• 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. — Breakout Session #1
• 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. — Breakout Session #2
• 12:15 – 1:15 p.m. — Lunch and Fireside Chat
• 1:30 – 2:00 p.m. — Networking

The event will be hosted by Master of Ceremonies Carla DuBois, Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce Board Chair and Director, Region Banker Team Lead at Webster Bank, a division of Santander Bank N.A. 

"Every year I’ve been, the WOW! Forum reminds me of what's possible when women show up for each other," said Carla DuBois, Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce Board Chair. "Reaching our 21st year is a testament to how much this community values a space to be inspired, be honest, and be seen. This year's theme, 'Unmasking Your True Self,' is really about giving women permission to own their story — and I can't think of a more fitting way to celebrate two-plus decades."

About the WOW! Forum

For more than 20 years, the WOW! Forum has served as a source of inspiration, motivation, networking, empowerment, education, and encouragement for women throughout the region. This year's forum continues that legacy with a full day of expert-led programming, meaningful connection, and community.

Event Details: Friday, October 23, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. CT State Community College Northwestern (Winsted)

Seats are limited. Register now