COSTA MESA, Calif., Oct. 27, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Association for Women in Technology, Southern California (AWT), a local non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of women and girls in all areas of technology, today announced that its President, Cynthia Cotteta, was honored last Friday, October 24, 2003 at the 8th Annual Remarkable Women Awards Luncheon at the Westin South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. The ceremony, hosted by the Orange County chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-OC), is one of Orange County's premier events in recognizing women's achievements.
NAWBO-OC established the Remarkable Women Annual Awards Luncheon in 1996 to recognize outstanding female members of the community who contributed unlimited time and talent to their associations and Orange County. More than 700 guests from all over the county gathered together this year to honor the women. The goal was to create strong affiliations among members and leaders of the recognized organizations, and provide them with valuable community exposure. The luncheon was an ideal environment for attendees to socialize and network with hundreds of outstanding women.
"We value AWT as one of the many affiliate organizations that help make this event a true showcase of women's achievements," said Alice Lei, president of NAWBO-OC. "All of our honorees have transformed their aspirations into highly successful endeavors."
Through her leadership with AWT, Cotteta and a group of dedicated technology professionals have organized and directed many workshops and events that have enriched and continue to benefit the area:
-- Mentorship Program--a six-month program designed to help advance
women in their careers by giving them a chance to work with a
mentor in a structured program designed by professional coaches.
-- Girl Scout Workshops--an ongoing series of monthly workshops in
which the Girl Scouts of Orange County have the opportunity to
complete various requirements to earn Brownie, Junior and Cadet
badges while learning about technology and various careers in
technical fields.
-- E101--administered in conjunction with the Forum for Women
Entrepreneurs and NAWBO-OC, this series of monthly luncheon
classes is designed to prepare promising entrepreneurs to launch
and build new companies in the high-growth technology and life
sciences sectors.
Cotteta and members of AWT also lead the planning committee for H.E.A.R.T., a charitable event that last year raised over $9,000 for Orange County's local chapter of Habitat for Humanity's Technology Project, which offers increased access to basic technology instruction, technology-based work experience, online employment services and more to very low-income residents. This year's H.E.A.R.T. event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2003.
"I am deeply privileged to have been honored for my involvement in such a wonderful group," said Cotteta. "This recognition is a nod to AWT's achievements and to all of our talented and generous Board members and volunteers who have worked so hard to grow the organization into what it is today."
About NAWBO-OC
With more than 165 active members, NAWBO-OC positions women business owners for profits, power and the passionate pursuit of excellence. The organization provides encouragement and support, networking opportunities, educational programs, and professional development. There are nearly 90 NAWBO chapters in the U.S., and the organization is represented in 35 countries worldwide. For information, call (714) 832-5333, or visit the Web site at www.nawbo-oc.org.
About the Association for Women in Technology
The Association for Women in Technology, Southern California is a local non-profit organization dedicated to serving the advancement of women and girls in all fields of technology. As a dynamic organization for learning, entrepreneurship and mentorship opportunities, AWT bridges the gap between industry, education and community institutions and continues to strengthen the fabric of the Southern California technology region. The organization holds meetings and events on a regular basis, attracting women in every area of technology, from those just entering the field to senior level management and technology innovators. To learn more about AWT, please visit the group's website at www.awtsocal.org.