BENTON HARBOR, Mich., (October 24, 2022) – Cornerstone Alliance, Berrien County's lead economic development agency, hosted an exclusive luncheon for women in business at bread+bar on Friday, October 21, 2022.

After a successful inaugural FLEX event in March, held in recognition of National Women's History Month, Cornerstone Alliance brought panelists back for a luncheon led by women in powerful executive leadership roles. Attendees selected a panelist to have lunch with and listen to insightful leadership advice.

"We're thrilled FLEX has sold out for the second time since its inception," said Chris Frank, CEcD, Cornerstone Alliance Vice President of External Affairs. "As a community, we are responsible for creating development opportunities for women. The popularity of FLEX illustrates the demand for empowering events for women who strive to accelerate their personal and professional growth."

Participating panelists at the luncheon were: Krista Flynn, Midwest Regional Executive, Commercial Banking, PNC Bank; Jen Nelson, Chief Operating Officer, Michigan Economic Development Corporation; Pam Klyn, Senior Vice President, Communications, Public Affairs & Sustainability, Whirlpool Corporation; Lynn Jekkals, Central Regional Leader, Aon; and Chris Frank, CEcD, Vice President of External Affairs, Cornerstone Alliance.

In addition to positive female participant responses, male attendees also told Cornerstone Alliance how FLEX helps them better understand how to support women in the workplace.

Cornerstone Alliance will host FLEX again in March 2023 for a larger audience. Those interested in attending FLEX next year should visit CStoneAlliance.org/FLEX-alerts to be the first to know when tickets are on sale.