HARTFORD REGION – January 16, 2024) — YWCA Hartford Region is excited to announce its 30th “In the Company of Women Luncheon” on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, expecting over 1,200 attendees!
The keynote speaker for 2025 is Juju Chang, an Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of ABC News’ Nightline and a contributor to Good Morning America and 20/20. As a prominent Asian American in broadcast news, she has become a respected advocate for social change, particularly in response to rising hate crimes against the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.
YWCA Hartford Region is thrilled to announce the co-chairs for its 30th “In the Company of Women” Luncheon: Duby McDowell and Elease E. Wright. Duby, who founded the inaugural event in 1996, has over 30 years of experience in journalism, politics and public relations. She established McDowell Communications Group in 2006 and advises clients on communication strategies.
Elease is the retired Chief Human Resources Officer of Aetna Inc. and has played a vital role as co-chair in the past and 2025. Both women have served on the Board of Directors for YWCA Hartford Region, with Elease being a former President. Her career contributions were key to Aetna’s successful transformation into a healthcare leader, earning recognition as Fortune’s most admired insurance and managed care company for three consecutive years.
“We are incredibly proud to have both Elease and Duby return as our event Co-Chairs,” said Adrienne W. Cochrane, Chief Executive Officer of YWCA Hartford Region. “These remarkable women embody the mission and vision of YWCA and have contributed to this organization in various capacities for decades. We could not be more honored they chose us.”
Tickets for the Luncheon are now on sale. For discounted “Early Bird” tickets to the 30th “In the Company of Women Luncheon,” visit www.ywcatford.org
