WOMENS ENTREPRENEURS LUNCHEON Next up for Entrepreneurship Week featured women entrepreneurs. The panelists included Katrin Hillner, Raven Gabriele, Kerry Lord, and Jacquelynn Beckers. MANAGING As women entrepreneurs, each panelist has found their own work/ life balance between managing relationships, family, and their businesses. “Every day is a roller coaster, and since we’re still a relatively new business, I’m still learning how to balance my time,” said Raven. “In my free time, I like going out to dinner, supporting other local businesses, and seeing my friends and family.” Jacquelynn’s career began with corporate agency work, and she realized she wanted something that gave her more satisfaction. “My business is something to show for my time spent; everything I create is my own work.” “My relationships are very important to me,” said Katrin. “I have realized I need to have more work and life balance as I continue my business.” As Kerry started her family, she learned the rewarding benefits of entrepreneurship. “I love making my own schedule and being able to do things with my kids. I have flexibility to be at school events for them, while also doing what I love.” THE CHALLENGES “Learning the financial side of entrepreneurship was hard for me,” said Kerry. She had to learn how to do taxes and the finances of her business herself. Jacquelynn found owning her own business to be challenging when there were unexpected events in her life. “You have to find ways to overcome your own weaknesses.” Raven has experienced challenges in staffing her restaurant. “Since Covid-19, the restaurant industry has changed. I learned to step up and fill in positions when someone calls out. It’s challenging, but my support system has helped me through it all.” “Learning a new range of topics was challenging,” said Katrin. “I had to learn to be a business leader, mother, and balance all of these roles at the same time.” 28 | INNOVISION MAGAZINE Katrin Hillner President and CEO of PCN. Her company delivers IT software and services for clients. Raven Gabriele ‘19 Owner of The Raven 96, a brunch eatery located in Easton, Pa. Kerry Lord ‘03 Owner of Kerry Lord Design, a freelance graphic design business. Jacquelynn Beckers ‘91 Founder of Thin Cow, a graphic design business that provides marketing, graphic design, and corporate branding.
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