A Collective Vision: Celebrating Women in Business
This month, Greet Hershey and Members 1st honor the collection of voices, talents, and innovations that female entrepreneurs bring to our economy. By coming together, we can turn individual support into a powerful collective impact.
Owning a small business as a woman in a small town is rewarding. We have built many great relationships with the women in this community; they are not only our customers, but they have become our friends! Our staff is compromised of women of all ages. Being a woman entrepreneur with young employees is not only about being a boss; it also means being a mentor to help young women grow. I hope to help them step out of their comfort zone, build confidence and grow as individuals so they know what's possible for their future.
Laura Morgan | Laura Morgan Interiors | The Shoppe on Chocolate
Owning my own business has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, second only to being a parent. It means wearing many hats and learning to make decisions without a clear blueprint. As a woman, there is an added layer to that responsibility, as I strive to lead with both strength and care. Balancing the care for my children with cultivation of my business has not been easy. Both require nurturing.
Creating a safe, supportive space for teen girls is one of my highest priorities. In today’s social media driven world, that work is challenging. Boundaries matter and learning how to set them is an ongoing process.
Frances Mohler | Frances Mohler Dance
Building a business is the greatest personal development experience I believe we can choose to go through, especially as women. It illuminates the uncomfortable thoughts we believe to be true and have been quietly running in our brains; coming out full force when we allow ourselves to take the risk of being in the spotlight. And don't even get me started on the mom guilt when you combine motherhood and business.
Can I really do this? Am I qualified?
Do I have what it takes? What does everyone else think of me? What if I fail?
The truth is, running a business is hard. It pushes you to your limits, and you must be ok with failure time and time again. On the other hand, it can fulfill you in ways that nothing else can, build resilience, grow your confidence, and allow you to create a lasting impact on this world. It is imperative that you surround yourself with like-minded women who are truly on your side. The women who will cheer you on, be a shoulder to cry on, and advocate for you when you're not in the room. Our success is not created on our own, but by joining forces with those who have gone before us, are building alongside us, and are coming up behind us. We are stronger, and more successful together than we ever could be apart.
Shannon Confair | Modern Day Marketing | TheShannonClarie.com
My professional background is in broadcast journalism, communications, and public relations, but music has always been a central part of my life. Leading the Hershey Symphony allows me to blend strategic leadership and storytelling with a lifelong passion for the performing arts. It’s incredibly meaningful to apply business skills in service of something that brings beauty, connection, and joy to the community. As the Symphony enters its 58th season, my hope is that it continues to thrive for generations to come—building new audiences, nurturing young musicians, and remaining a welcoming, affordable cultural cornerstone for our community.
Susan Cort | Hershey Symphony Orchestra Executive Director
Owning my own business is both the best and scariest thing I’ve ever done. Having the opportunity to photograph the incredible students and athletes in our community brings me joy that’s honestly hard to put into words. Saying I love it doesn’t quite capture how much it means to me to freeze these moments in time—whether it’s a team celebrating a win, a student lost in their music, or someone shining on stage. Capturing people doing what they love is truly special. My background in media, marketing, and sales has been a perfect complement to my photography journey. I never would have guessed that blending these skills would lead me to build a business I’m so passionate about. It’s a great reminder to walk through the doors that open—you never know where they’ll take you.
Deanna Fox | SportsFox Photography
As a woman in business, I have been surprised by the beautiful connections that have been built within the community, particularly with other business owners. As a realtor, I didn't expect this amazing part of my business and life, and I am so thankful for it.
Nicole Daboin | Nicole Daboin Realty
I feel grateful every day to own my own business. The demands have prepared me to tranisition to motherhood--working around the clock, troubleshooting, trying to keep customers or children happy while maintaining my values. The challenge of balancing work with family life has been made easier being supported by other women in the same position.
Emily Drobnick | Knock Knock Boutique | Bella Sera Boutique
Managing two businesses takes a soul full of passion. It brings both life and joy and, left unbalanced, can bring weariness and exhaustion. In a world where women are praised for 'doing it all,' the "me" in 20 years will hopefully be thanksful for the boundaries and self-care I implement today.
Kayla Mins | Underground Yarn & Book Shop