College of Business

Women in Business Summit

Saturday, October 19 | 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

BMU Auditorium

     women in business logo
The Women in Business Summit is an event co-hosted by the American Marketing Association and the Association for Women in Business. These clubs are striving to advocate and bring opportunities to women and underrepresented minorities who face a wide range of obstacles and experiences in the business world. Over the past six years, thousands of individuals including students, small business owners, stay-at-home mothers, and other community members have gained tremendous benefits from this event.

Held in the BMU, this event is comprised of amazing guest speakers and breakout sessions that touch on relevant topics for women in business. Some of these topics include:

  • The Power of Relationships
  • Personal Growth
  • Excelling in Your Career
  • Imposter Syndrome
  • AI & Digital Transformation
  • Building Your Brand

In addition, this event is interactive! Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with and ask questions directly to the impressive line of speakers.

Keynote speakers Ashley Snyder from SalesForce and Suki Mann from Sensiba will leave you with value-added advice based on personal experience.

Dress to impress and network with event speakers as well as recruiters from companies with proven track records for treating women with respect, dignity, and fairness. You may even get an interview for a summer internship!

Ticket prices are $15*, which includes breakfast, lunch, and an awesome swag bag! Get ready to grow your network, career, and knowledge! See you there!

*This event will be equitable and accessible to all students. If you have a financial hardship, we have a limited number of sponsored tickets. Don’t let the $15 hold you back. Email kkminetti@csuchico.edu to get a sponsored ticket.

To take advantage of this opportunity, buy your tickets now(opens in new window) to reserve your spot! Ticket prices are $15 and well worth the investment. The first 150 people will receive a free swag bag filled with fun conference essentials. Get ready to grow your network, career, and knowledge. Buy your ticket today!(opens in new window)


2024 Guest Speakers 

Ashley Snyder(opens in new window) | Keynote Speaker: Build Your Brand: There is only ONE you

Senior Manager of Business Development, SalesForce

ashley snyder's headshot

Ashley Snyder is an experienced executive with a diverse background in sales, business development, brand sponsorships, and leadership.

With over a decade of experience, Ashley has demonstrated exceptional growth and adaptability, beginning her journey at Salesforce as an intern and steadily progressing through various roles, including Sales and Business Development Representative, Account Executive, Brand Sponsorships Manager, and currently serves as a Senior Manager of Business Development in the Financial Services Business. 

Outside of her professional role, Ashley is an investor, advisor and mentor, known for her dynamic approach to business and her commitment to fostering collaborative team environments. Her background in sales and business development, combined with her leadership skills, make her a valuable asset in any business setting.

Ashley graduated from California State University, Chico, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication Design and Minors in both Marketing and Broadcasting. During her time at Chico she actively participated in extracurricular activities including; serving on the Board of the American Marketing Association and was a member of both the Intramural Basketball Team and Water Ski Team.

Topic: Build Your Brand: There is only ONE you

Understand the significance and influence of building a brand. We will explore strategies to showcase your unique qualities and learn how to develop a personal and professional brand that reflects your authentic self. This approach will help you attract opportunities, foster meaningful connections, and achieve impactful results.


Suki Mann(opens in new window) | Keynote Speaker:  The Power of Relationships

Audit Partner, Sensiba

suki mann's headshot

With over 15 years of accounting and financial reporting experience, Audit Partner Suki Mann specializes in assisting venture-backed technology companies with revenue recognition and other industry-specific needs. Her experience in resolving complex accounting and auditing matters make her uniquely suited to manage a wide range of global engagements. She serves clients from small to mid-size privately-held businesses to publicly traded companies, focusing primarily on global venture capital engagements.

Suki serves as partner-in-charge of the firm’s employee benefit plan (EBP) audit practice, supervising and directing the training for all staff working on EBP engagements. She provides expert advice in each EBP audit engagement and works diligently to ensure they are executed smoothly and efficiently. Suki is a member of the EBP Audit Quality Center, a voluntary membership center for firms that audit employee benefit plans created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

Suki has received certification in blockchain technology from AICPA and CIMA. She understands the current landscape, business applications, and financial control considerations associated with blockchain use. She is also well versed in regulatory concerns and governance related to blockchain implementations. Suki is a leader in Sensiba’s internal data analytics and automation effort, working to drive innovation and efficiency.

In 2006, Suki received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from California State University, Chico. As a licensed CPA in California, she is a member of both the AICPA and the California Society of Certified Public Accountants. Suki was honored with the YWCA TWIN Award in 2016. As an active supporter of her community, Suki is proud to serve on the financial committee for non-profit Sunflower Hill and the Audit Committee for the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center. In her free time, Suki enjoys participating in HIIT bootcamps.

Topic: The Power of Relationships 

Practical advice and examples showing how personal relationships provide a strong foundation for professional networks, long-lasting friendships, and career success.


Cheryl DeLany| AI and Digital Transformation

Senior VP of Distribution Operations at Franklin-Templeton

 cheryl delany's headshot

Cheryl DeLany is the Senior Vice President of Distribution Operations at Franklin Templeton Investments.  In this role she is responsible for all data, analytics, and technology that enable global sales, marketing, and product teams to deliver an exceptional client experience.  Cheryl has grown her career at Franklin Templeton since joining in 2002 after graduating from CSU, Chico with Business and International Economics degrees.  

Cheryl’s passions include solving complex problems, building incredible relationships, and mentoring/inspiring others to reach their potential.  She grew up in a rural town near Chico and now lives with her husband, two daughters (ages 6 and 9), and a miniature labradoodle named Sully, in Granite Bay, California.

Cheryl with discuss Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation so you can walk away with a ton of knowledge about this dynamic space.


Amber Lowry(opens in new window) | Personal Growth

CEO, Syssero

Amber Lowry headshot

Amber began working with Workday nearly 10 years ago as an employee.  Following that experience, she interacted with the product from the perspective of a consulting partner, end client, and independent consultant. Being able to view the organization from all angles and understanding the unmet needs of organizations of all sizes led her to create Syssero.

Amber founded Syssero to help Workday clients get the most out of their solution.  Through Amber’s leadership, Syssero is ensuring client success through transparency, comprehensive training, and honesty at the outset of every project.  Despite Syssero’s rapid growth, Amber still communicates directly with every client to ensure the company’s mission is being lived up to across all projects.  

The aspect of her job she enjoys the most is tackling new challenges.  Each new client has a fresh set of goals, and the diversity allows Amber and the entire Syssero team to utilize their full skill sets to solve problems.

When not creating Workday solutions for clients, Amber is passionate about education. She volunteers at schools across her area to teach the next generation that learning can be fun and empowering, whether you are 5 or 85.

Amber will provide a look why it is important to always be growing and challenging yourself and will provide examples from her experiences.


Jamie Keith(opens in new window) | Excelling in Your Career

VP Marketing & Public Relations, Sierra Central Credit Union

Managing Partner, Tres Hombres Restaurant & Bar

jamie keith

Jamie Keith is the Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations for Sierra Central Credit Union. Sierra Central is a 1.6 billion dollar company based in Yuba City, California, with 20 branches spanning across Northern California. Since 1955 Sierra Central has provided financial services to their members by way of banking, lending and investing. Sierra Central also invests back into the community with over $100,000 annually donated towards youth financial literacy programs, student scholarships, non-profit donations, and volunteer service on community boards. Jamie oversees communications, advertising, marketing, event management and public relations. Efforts include website management, digital and print advertising campaigns, tv commercials, social media, scholarship program, financial literacy, event management and more.

Jamie and her husband Brandon Keith are the managing partners of Tres Hombres Restaurant & Bar, which was established in 1987 in Chico, California. Tres is a polished Mexican restaurant with the largest selection of tequila north of Sacramento. Located in Downtown Chico, the building in which Tres Hombres operates dates back to 1861 and is situated across the street from Chico State. Tres Hombres offers a large dining space, cocktail lounge and bar area, outside patio, and private event space.

Jamie is passionate about giving back and both Sierra Central Credit Union and Tres Hombres support those efforts to serve the areas they call home. Throughout her career Jamie has served on the Yuba-Sutter Chamber of Commerce Board, Rotary Club of Yuba City Board, Beale Military Liaison Council Board, Shaddy Creek Outdoor Education Board, Friends of the Marysville Stampede Board and has helped put on various non-profit fundraisers such as Evening with Catalyst, Yuba City Crab Feed, Yuba-Sutter Lip Sync Battle, Marysville Rodeo, Yuba-Sutter Chamber Gala, Taste of Yuba Sutter and more.

At current Jamie belongs to or is a Board member of: Beale Military Liaison Council, Rotary Club of Yuba City, Friends of the Marysville Stampede, and was recently named to the Civic Leader Group for the Air Force Reserve.

Jamie holds a degree in Public Relations with a minor in Marketing from Chico State as well as graduate level studies in Public Administration from Chico State.

Jamie will discuss tips for a successful career including getting involved in networking groups and service organizations to build your book of business, elevate your career, and do a little good!


Joleen Kleinbach(opens in new window) | Imposter Syndrome

Area Manager, Enterprise

joleen kleinbach's headshot

Joleen grew up in Fort Bragg, CA and graduated with a B.S in Sport Sciences from University of the Pacific. Immediately following graduation, she managed a spa in Fort Bragg before starting with Enterprise in Sacramento 12 years ago. Currently, she is an Area Manager for Enterprise covering the territory from Yuba City to Eureka. Joleen’s passions and hobbies include spending time with friends and family, reading, following the SF Giants and 49ers closely, working on her yard, and ocean fishing. 

Joleen will discuss Imposter Syndrome and will share personal anecdotes and advice to help build your self confidence.


Eileen Acello | Opening Remarks

Faculty at FAU; Consultant, Acello & Associates

eileen acello's headshot

Eileen currently consults for Acello & Associates, LLC where she performs market research and business development for her clients.

Eileen is a career marketing professional and educator with a specialty in the food and allied industry. She teaches in a variety of modes including lecture based, high engagement and distance learning environments. She has been educating adults and traditional students in marketing for over 25 years.

Eileen has taught Marketing and Communications at West Chester University, West Chester, PA, Cheyney University, Cheyney, PA, Saint Joseph’s University’s, Philadelphia, Immaculata University in Immaculata, PA, Scottsdale Community College, Scottsdale, AZ, South Mountain Community College in South Mountain, AZ and currently teaches at Florida Atlantic University.