Sterling Women of Manassas Hosts Second Successful Event

“We are all the sum of our experiences,” said Deborah Jones, Prince William Chamber of Commerce President and CEO as she began her entertaining and inspirational presentation at this week’s Sterling Women of Manassas luncheon. The networking event, the second of its kind, was attended by over 60 professionals, mostly from small businesses.

Deborah (Debbie) Jones began her Chamber career in 1990 and served as President of the Prince William County-Greater Manassas Chamber of Commerce from 1993-2010. She has been an executive in the Prince William Chamber since its inception in July 2010, serving as the Chief Operating Officer since July 2011, Acting President and CEO since February 18, 2014. Jones was unanimously voted and appointed as the President and CEO of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce on June 10, 2014.

Jones engaged the audience by talking a little about her parents who supported her throughout her life and how the family retail businesses shaped her career. But perhaps even more importantly, Jones provided insight into what life has taught her and offered some advice for business owners and professionals. Jone’s tips included:

1. Take advantage of all opportunities. Be everywhere, and be indispensable.

2. Do community work. Make a difference.

3. Don’t be afraid to share your experience: mentor.

4. Inspire others. Give someone hope and help them live their dreams.

5. Create your own support systems. It’s okay to ask for help.

6. Think about hiring a life coach.

During a question and answer period, Jones discussed the adage, “It’s lonely at the top.” She advised women to find someone they could trust to bounce ideas off of and talk honestly about challenges. This professional could be a mentor, friend or someone in a similar field not in the same geographical area.

During the session, Jones also mentioned her fight with breast cancer, past and current, and how it made her look at life differently. “Life’s too short to be around people you don’t like,” she said. “Surround yourself with positive people.”

The luncheon, however, was more than just a presentation – it was a holiday celebration during which Sterling Women Manassas’ Host, Shateea Holmes, announced that the organization would begin highlighting non-profits to garner more community support for organizations that help the community.

Attendees had a variety of reasons for registering for the event.

Lauren Stewart of the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia is a long-time friend of Jones. “I was interested in hearing and supporting Debbie, as well as sharing about the sisters and their ministries with the community,” she said.

“The speakers in this group always have something substantive to say,” Nancy Wyatt of My Persuasive Presentations said. “And it’s a great networking opportunity.”

Carolyn Stewart of Five Rings Financial and Deborah Kowal of Long and Foster also appreciated the opportunity to network. “I am always interested in meeting entrepreneurial women who inspire, help empower and support one another,” Kowal said.

Home stager and realtor Belinda Jacobson said she had heard about Sterling Women Manassas and was pleased they would be meeting in Gainesville, near her, so she decided to attend.

Sterling Women of Manassas’ next event will be held January 21 and will feature Sarah E. Nutter, Dean of George Mason University’s School of Management. For more information, visit Sterling Women of Manassas’ website.

Sterling Women of Manassas is a local network of professionals committed to encouraging, supporting, inspiring and strengthening one another. Through events and monthly meetings, Sterling Women of Manassas showcases and celebrates exceptional women in the Prince William Area.