Twelfth Annual Women’s Conference Draws Hundreds in Roanoke

On Thanksgiving Eve, November 23, 1949, the iconic Mill Mountain Star was first illuminated, towering 88.5 feet high and glowing with 2,000 feet of neon tubing. Intended as a temporary Christmas decoration to promote holiday shopping in Roanoke, the star quickly became a beloved symbol of the city, earning it the nickname "Star City of the South." Fast forward 75 years, on November 23, 2024, a small crowd gathered at the star’s base to commemorate its Diamond Anniversary.

However, the modest turnout at the star’s celebration could be attributed to another major event happening nearby: Sen. Mark Warner's Twelfth Annual Women’s Conference, which drew hundreds of women from across the state.

Themed "Elevate Your Future," the conference featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, workshops, and discussions covering a wide range of topics, from mental health and career advancement to caregiving and artificial intelligence.

A hallmark of Warner’s conferences, held annually in different parts of Virginia, is their accessibility. The event is free to attendees, with registration and lunch provided at no cost, thanks to sponsorship from organizations like AARP Virginia.

This year’s conference highlighted Warner’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with 32 of the 34 speakers being women. Workshops catered to a variety of interests and life stages, ensuring something for everyone. Participants were afforded sessions on unexpected topics like “doodling” as a creative tool and harnessing AI for personal and professional growth.

Warner himself, now in his third Senate term, addressed the audience, emphasizing bipartisan cooperation and shared opportunity. He underscored his priorities: improving access to affordable housing, addressing student debt by refinancing loans at 2% interest and expanding affordable childcare.

“Everyone can’t be guaranteed success,” Warner said, “but everybody deserves a fair shot.” He also highlighted the contributions of first-generation Americans, noting that, unlike other countries, the U.S. embraces new citizens fully as Americans.

Attendees left the conference inspired and energized. Anna Marie of Christiansburg, attending for the first time, reflected, “I loved it. I met so many interesting people, especially the AARP volunteers.” Others were eager to explore new ideas. “I’m going to try AI,” one participant shared. Another added, “Who knew doodling could be so useful?”

The conference, scheduled to end at 2 p.m., lingered on as enthusiastic conversations continued, a testament to its impact. While the Mill Mountain Star’s anniversary was a moment to reflect on Roanoke’s history, the Women’s Conference illuminated paths to a brighter future.