The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will celebrate Women’s HERstory Month
throughout March 2022. DCEO, through its Offices of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE) and Regional
Economic Development (RED), will present virtual events featuring business resources and advice from women
leaders, recognize women–owned businesses throughout the state, and showcase our commitment to investing in
women. Please join us as we celebrate and elevate HER in Illinois!

Yes, She Did It: How Illinois Women Leaders Paved the Way Forward For HER
Thursday| March 31, 2022 |11:30 AM–12:30 PM | webinar
Women have been disproportionately impacted before and throughout the pandemic at different levels. From not
having the same access to financial capital opportunities, to being overlooked for top leadership positions in
organizations, to managing the double–double shift of taking care of the family and home chores, and etc., many
women aren’t able to reach their full professional potential due to barriers across the spectrum. Hear from Illinois
women leaders who have broken the glass ceiling and want to help you get to the next level – whether it’s starting
or growing your business, or strategically growing into leadership positions within organizations.
Moderator
• Sylvia I. Garcia: Acting Director, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
Panelists
• Ashley S. H. Moy: Co–Founder & CEO, Cast21
• Beverly Kim: Co–Owner, restaurants Parachute & Wherewithall | James Beard Award–winning Chef | Co–
Founder, DoughSomething | Co–Founder, The Abundance Setting
• Deirdre C. Drake: Executive Vice President–Chief People Officer–Head of Communications, UScellular
• Dr. Lisa C. Freeman: President, Northern Illinois University