Women biz owners merge chapters; name first pres.

The recently merged Middlesex and Somerset chapters of the New Jersey Association of Women Business Owners (NJAWBO) has announced some new priorities and goals.

Leading the charge is Rosemarie Strawn, who was named president after the merger. Strawn is the owner of Positive Actions, Piscataway, and is a motivational speaker, trainer and published author.

"We are working to raise awareness of the largest statewide organization of women business owners in the United States," Strawn said in a press release.

Strawn’s vision is for future events to be enjoyable, educational and productive. Aside from support from fellow women entrepreneurs and professionals, she envisions the events as opportunities for members to learn how to increase business and profits, according to the press release. Plans include hosting educational speakers and seminars at meetings.

"I’m extending an open invitation to all women business owners in New Jersey to attend a meeting. They can experience how valuable it is to connect with like-minded women. Creating a support network that will facilitate them in business endeavors is empowering," Strawn said.

While the new Middlesex Somerset Chapter currently has more than 100 members, Strawn hopes to see that number increase. A special membership drive is scheduled for Sept. 20.

For more information on the newly merged chapter, visit www.somersetnjawbo.org.

NJAWBO, incorporated in 1978, is the largest statewide women business owners’ organization in the United States. Its primary objective is to support and encourage business ownership by women. There are about 1,000 members in 13 chapters across New Jersey, addressing the needs of the 200,000 women business owners in the state.