Publisher’s Letter

Welcome to the Providence Business News’ inaugural special issue recognizing 25 of the region’s most industrious and influential Business Women.

Beginning in September 2007, PBN Editor Mark Murphy and his staff compiled 12 feature stories focusing on the backgrounds, challenges and successes of businesswomen. Those profiles are included in this supplement. We are proud to recognize the achievements and challenges of these entrepreneurs, small-business owners and executives, and thank them for sharing their stories with us and with you.

Part 2 of the 2008 Business Women Recognition Program involved selecting 12 successful women in five key industry categories, one woman for overall career achievement, and someone who has been a strong ally and mentor to other businesswomen. These 12 were chosen from dozens of profiles submitted to our editor. Selecting just 12 was not easy, as we learned about many other impressive women.

A special “Thank You” to our Business Women program sponsors: Presenting Sponsor, Bank Rhode Island; Event Sponsors, Bryant University; COX Business; CVS Caremark; Lefkowitz, Garfinkel, Champi & DeRienzo, and Partridge, Snow & Hahn.

We are excited to continue the 2008 / 2009 Business Women series, beginning with a new feature in the July 7 edition of PBN. Please feel free to contact our editor if you would like to submit a profile for consideration in the monthly series.

Congratulations to all of the 2008 Business Women honorees!