More Than Networking—A Community That Lifts You Up.

Network Founder, MIllie Devine

Network Awards

Acknowledging the dedication of our members

The Southeastern Connecticut Women’s Network was founded in 1976.

The Power of History

"Fight for things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
            – Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Millie Devine, a bank officer in New London, found it difficult to conduct business when the organizations and clubs that conducted business did not allow women as members. She understood the importance of connections and networking with others especially for businesswomen. She saw a need and created a solution. At the same time, Millie and other women realized the importance of creating a safe place for women affected by domestic violence. The Women’s Center now named Safe Futures was founded by this small group of women in 1976. Tens of thousands of women and men have been supported and saved by Safe Futures. This is the Network’s “sister organization!” Both nonprofits have changed the lives of women for the better. As Margaret Meade states “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world, indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.”

HerStory

HER-STORY—a powerful look at our Network’s roots from a woman’s perspective—was created by member Jenny Bonanno of Connect the Dots Productions. Jenny produced, directed, researched, and wrote the film, capturing decades of newsletters, photos, events, and interviews with past members and Presidents.

Premiering at our May 2007 luncheon, the video celebrates what has always made the SECT Women’s Network special: unwavering support, vibrant energy, and a community that continuously lifts one another up.

  • The Network’s Woman of the Year is nominated by members and chosen by a committee of past recipients. The honoree must be an active SECT Women’s Network member—attending luncheons and participating in events—while also contributing to her community and other professional organizations. She shows a genuine commitment to helping others grow professionally and gain visibility through networking.

    Woman of the Year recipients

    2024 Pat Todd
    2023 Denise Nott
    2022 Lisa Giordano
    2021 Nancy Butler
    2020 Deb McGrath
    2019 Kathy Greene
    2018 Emma Palzere-Rae
    2017 Susan Dombrowski
    2016 Donna Yother
    2015 Louisa Ketron
    2014 Connie Plessman
    2013 Camilla Ross
    2012 Chris Lautz
    2011 Gail Weber
    2010 Jane Moriarty
    2009 Kasey Goss
    2008 Beth Glynn
    2007 Susan Pochal
    2006 Cora Murphy
    2005 Elaine Bono
    2004 Lois Andrews
    2003 Marj Taggart Dedrick
    2002 Vicki Anderson
    2001 Kathleen O’Beirne
    2000 Millie Devine
    1999 Judy Woodman
    1998 Joyce Schmidt
    1997 Barbara Quinn
    1996 Lois Palmer-Alderson
    1995 Linda Mariani
    1994 Barbara Reed Collins
    1993 Barbara Gager
    1992 Nancy Hillery
    1991 Nan Crowley

  • The Heron Award, created in June 1996 by Kathleen O’Beirne, honors women who demonstrate exceptional leadership. Inspired by the Great Blue Heron—the central figure in Kathleen’s work Birds of a Feather: Lessons from the Sea—the award draws on the Heron’s symbolism. This bird fishes in deeper waters, surrounded by smaller birds who benefit from what she stirs up. Her patience, confidence, and collaborative spirit make the Heron a powerful metaphor for the kind of remarkable leadership this award recognizes.

    Heron Award recipients

    2024 Alyssa Tumolo
    2022 Kate Lee
    2019 Denise Howard
    2018 JoAn Collins
    2017 Kathy Greene
    2016 Phyllis Nelson
    2015 Deb McGrath
    2014 Judy Ricketts-White
    2013 Patty Rodgers-Longo
    2012 Susan Dombrowski
    2011 Marilyn Dayton
    2010 No recipient
    2009 Chris Lautz
    2008 Susan Pochal
    2007 Kasey Goss
    2006 Jane Percy
    2005 Marjorie Taggart-Dedrick
    2004 No recipient
    2003 Connie Plessman
    2002 Jean Caron
    2001 Vicki Anderson
    2000 Linda Mariani
    1999 Barbara Ross
    1998 Nan Crowley
    1997 Joyce Schmidt
    1996 Pam Griffin

  • Several new awards were created to honor our members. Each recognizes excellence, dedication, and service to the Network.

    Mildred Devine Lifetime Achievement Award

    2022 Susan Pochal

    Rookie of the Year Award

    2024 Kelly Kretchman

    Unsung Heroes Award


    2022 Carol Brugess
    2202 Kathy Pooler
    2022 Judy Ricketts-White
    2022 Sheree Wujtewicz