State Farm agent Edie Williams of Ponte Vedra Beach recently attended the 2024 Women’s Conference of Florida in Tampa on Dec. 13.
The conference was held at the Tampa Convention Center where a diverse range of national-level speakers, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and exhibits took place designed to empower Florida women of all ages and backgrounds.
“As a staunch advocate for supporting and investing in the next generation of female leaders, we established the College Women on the Rise program to benefit young women who, despite their unique circumstances, have persevered and remained dedicated to their future success,” said Arlene DiBenigno, founder and CEO of the Women’s Conference of Florida.
Now in its eighth year, the event attracted roughly 1,500 attendees, including Williams, who was there for the first time.
“I was not sure what to expect but was overwhelmed with the grand production of it all and the drive in these young women,” Williams said.
Topics during the conference included financial literacy, leadership and networking.
“These are things you might assume people get but its also something that has to be taught as well,” Williams said. “The ability to learn is a special thing. I am fortunate that I work for a company like State Farm that allows me to do things like this.”
According to Williams, the energy level throughout the convention center was evident and something that could be felt throughout.
She felt this energy especially in the conversations she had with others while working at the State Farm vendor booth during the conference.
“It wasn’t just business majors either, but I even talked to someone going into dentistry,” Williams said. “The future is bright, and to have a team of people around you and supporting you during this conference means a lot.”
As part of the conference, State Farm, who was one of the sponsors for the event presented $1,000 educational scholarships to 15 women attending college to help with the paths they are pursuing.
The scholarship winners were chosen through an essay contest that college students throughout the state took part in.
