United Regional Chamber of Commerce Provides Fashionable Fun for Administrative Professionals

The United Regional Chamber of Commerce picked the perfect spring day for last week's sixth Annual Administrative Professionals’ Luncheon and Fashion Show. With temperatures in the 70s, the sun shining, forsythia, daffodils and tulips all in bloom a predominately female crowd of about 80 enjoyed lunch, a fashion show and two hours away from their desks at  in Foxborough.

“We are providing a way for local businesses to say thank you to their staff,” said Jack Lank, president of the United Regional Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a fabulous turnout; 39 companies are represented today."

All of those companies purchased tickets and provided time off for their administrative professionals to enjoy a gourmet lunch, a fashion show and an opportunity to meet and get to know colleagues who work in the area.

“The luncheon and fashion show is a great way to show your staff how much you appreciate their hard work," said Olga Allen, vice president of operations for the Chamber. "During events like these we encourage our members to work with each other."

The formerly known recognition day, National Secretaries’ Day was renamed Administrative Professionals’ Day in 2000 to acknowledge the evolving high level of skill, duties and responsibilities now required in this job.

"In the United States there are 13 million people recognizing Administrative Professionals' Day today," Allen added. "In fact it is the largest workplace observance worldwide."

The presenting sponsor for the event was Home Instead Senior Care. Other key sponsors for the fashion show were at Mansfield Crossings, and Mary Kay Cosmetics. In addition, many more businesses donated raffle and gift bag items, which contributed to the pleasure of the event. The chamber represents Seekonk businesses, too.

The 12 models participating in the fashion show were all Chamber members and in addition to describing their outfits, Allen described their businesses and interests.

“I am blown away by the backgrounds, both personal and professional of these women," Events and Sponsorship Coordinator Irene Pelley said of the models. "We have so many dynamic women involved in the Chamber today!”

Debra Duplessie provided the Mary Kay make up for the event said, “I just love being here, getting to know the businesswomen in the area and being a part of the community.”

Senator Richard Ross sent four of his staff to the fashion show and luncheon. Susan Blais-Leawood a volunteer in his office said, “This is a cool idea. We have a great relationship with the Chamber of Commerce. He wanted us to enjoy today!”