The University Chapter:

Our Chapter was founded in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1992. One of its most important functions is to educate its members and support the young women and men in the local community. Our membership is made up of independent business owners, state employers and corporate employees.

We are one of three ABWA chapters in Charlotte, North Carolina and part of the 1,400+ chapters/networks nationwide. We are the only ABWA lunchtime chapter in the area. ABWA has been uniting businesswomen since 1949, supporting the changing role of women in the workplace over the past 50 years.

Meeting Information:

• Our chapter meets the 3rd Thursday of each month, 11:45 -1:00, at Ciro's Italian restaurant located on JW Clay Blvd. at the Shopps at University Place. (across the road from Old Navy).   
• At our meetings, we typically invite a guest speaker to present. Our members assist in arranging speakers based on the chapter's interests and needs.
• Lunch is optional. However, Ciro's has a variety of lunch time menu items to choose from.
• There is no cost to attend our meetings.
• Meetings are open to men and women in the business community.
• RSVP's are appreciated but not required.
• We encourage networking and socializing prior to and after our meeting times. (So don't forget your business cards!)

Mission Statement for National ABWA:

To bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition.

History:

Even in 1949 Hilary A. Bufton Jr., a Kansas City, MO., businessman realized business training and education were two of the hottest workplace issues.  Mr. Bufton recognized the positive economic impact of working women and their need for a support organization.  On September 22, 1949, Mr. Bufton founded the American Business Women's Association. ABWA has dedicated more than 50 years to women's education and provided workplace skills and career-development training for more than 545,000 members.