The Greater Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Women in Business hosted their latest luncheon titled, “A Motivational Story”, August 9 at the Gateway Club.

Speaker, Suzanne DeFerie, CEO and President of Asheville Savings Bank shared her journey as she entered banking and became the first female CEO of a bank in WNC. Born, raised and educated in Western North Carolina, she possesses exceptional experience, a strong backbone and feisty spark that speak to her strong mountain roots.

Suzanne touched on the driving theme of the Women in Business Luncheon Series: Leadership, Networking and Personal & Professional Development during her session last Thursday. She encouraged attendees to seize the opportunities that are open to you, step out of your comfort zone and showcase your abilities.

According to DeFerie, “Historically, women place less value on networking. Participation in community and professional organizations will provide ideal networking opportunities.” She went on to encourage attendees to stay abreast of critical matters pertaining to their field of business, “Possessing the ability to speak the language of your profession with confidence will set you apart from the crowd. A Commitment to Lifelong learning will keep our mind and bodies young.”

Suzanne also emphasized the importance of developing great professional relationships with mentors, both male and female. It was through her professional relationship with a mentor, that she was drawn to Asheville Savings Bank, (Asheville Federal, Savings and Loan). She then became versed in all aspects of Bank Operations and worked her way up the ladder to her current position as CEO and President.

Suzanne’s session provided the inspirational tools necessary for attendees to continue on their personal journey to success. She closed with a memorable statement, “Success is something that we have to make. It is inside of you and you must navigate it on your own.”

The Chamber’s Women in Business Committee aims to prepare women (and men) to be professional leaders in our community and to provide mentoring and support at all levels of business. Anyone interested in serving on the Women in Business Committee may contact the Chamber office at info@haywood-nc.com or (828)456-3021.