More Than Networking—A Community That Lifts You Up.
The Southeastern Connecticut Women’s Network was founded in 1976.
Network Founder, Millie Devine
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.
Network Awards
Acknowledging the dedication of our members
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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
2025 Sheree Wujtewicz
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
2022Carol Brugess
Kathy Pooler
Judy Ricketts-White
Sheree Wujtewicz
2025
MaryLou Gannotti
Gina Johnson
Sheri Giancarlo
