The inaugural IE State of Women Summit, presented by the National Council of Negro Women Inland Empire Section (NCNWIE), was held Saturday, March 7, at San Bernardino Valley College’s Lois Carson Center, bringing together women from across the Inland Empire, Los Angeles County, and surrounding communities for a day of inspiration, dialogue, and collaboration.

The Summit welcomed a full audience of female leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, public officials, and community advocates who gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing women in the region while building connections aimed at strengthening families and communities.

Ann Andreas of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, Dr. Cherina Betters, and Dr. Kenisha L. Williams, who each delivered inspiring messages of leadership, resilience, and empowerment while encouraging attendees to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities.

Several notable local and regional leaders attended the event, including San Bernardino County Board of Education President Gwen Dowdy Rodgers, San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk Josie Gonzales, Mayor of San Bernardino Helen Tran,former Mayor of Rialto, Deborah Robertson,NCNW Southern California President Dr. Helena Johnson, and Mayor of Fontana Acquanetta Warren, who served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the Summit.

Throughout the day, speakers addressed critical issues impacting women across the region, including economicinequality, wage disparities, leadership representation, and access to healthcare and resources. Attendees also explored ways to build stronger networks of support and advocacy for women throughout San Bernardino County and the broader Inland Empire.

Held under the theme “Empowering Women and Elevating Communities: Together Our Commonality Is Our Superpower,” the Summit emphasized the importance of unity across race, culture, and generations as women work together to drive meaningful change.

Organizers say the event marks the beginning of what they hope will become an annual gathering dedicated to uplifting the voices and leadership of women throughout the Inland Empire.

The event also featured networking opportunities and a vendor marketplace highlighting local women-owned businesses.