The 2019 College of the Canyons Women’s Conference returned with the theme “Purpose, Potential, Passion and Peace,” in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on Saturday.

During the sold-out event, a wide range of topics were covered, including interviewing, networking, and leadership.

Event organizers planned a lineup of presenters and breakout sessions designed to help attendees find “Purpose, Potential, Passion and Peace.”

Congresswoman Katie Hill, D- Agua Dulce, and Assemblywoman Christy Smith, D-Santa Clarita, were the keynote speakers for the event.

Photo Courtesy of Jade Aubuchon/KHTS News

The two Santa Clarita Valley representatives, both Alumni of College of the Canyons, shared their own experiences as students, professionals, and women.

“A four year university was economically out of reach,” said Smith. “It was this community college where I found not only a path with informative classes, supportive faculty, and opportunities to work, but to lead and to watch what eventually became the career I enjoy today.”

Smith felt that her own experiences prepared her well when the time came to advise her own daughters – aged 19 and 23 – on charting their own courses.

“Yet as a realist, I felt compelled to teach them that even in the 21st century, not every woman in every profession will make it through the door, or achieve parity with their male counterparts.” said Smith. “But that shouldn’t stop them from trying.”

When she took the podium, Hill shared her own experiences as a student and nurse, and her own realization of her passion and purpose, especially when dealing with homelessness.

“There are many ways to serve a purpose, as [Smith] said, it’s not just one model for success, not just one way to help people, and not just one way to get where you’re going.” said Hill.

Hill found her passion in battling homelessness, especially in addressing the systemic challenges behind homelessness that can keep people on the streets.

“Women are repeatedly underestimated, we are told that we need to listen better, to smile more, to talk less,” said Hill. “I didn’t always feel that way when I was forging my path.”

A vendor fair of more than 15 booths featured boutique shopping of unique for-sale items such as self-defense items, personalized household goods, jewelry, clothing, and handbags.

There was also an information table, highlighting local nonprofits and women-owned businesses during the event.

“Our journeys are long, but as long as we keep some measure of ourselves focused on finding our purpose, maximizing our potential, and leading with passion, that inner peace is never far from our reach.” said Smith.

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