From the Desk of Paula Fidalgo

Dear Members, Friends, Community Partners, and Future Members,

Welcome to the Schenectady Business and Professional Women’s Club.

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as President of this remarkable organization as we approach a historic milestone, our 100th Anniversary in 2027. For nearly a century, Schenectady BPW has been committed to advancing women through education, advocacy, leadership development, networking, and community service.

As I begin this journey, I do so with a simple but powerful vision: to create a culture where women genuinely support, encourage, and empower one another.

One of the most important values we can embrace is respect. Respect for each other’s experiences, perspectives, accomplishments, and unique journeys. Every woman who walks through our doors brings valuable knowledge, talents, and life experiences that deserve to be heard and appreciated.

My mission is to help foster an environment where every member feels welcomed, valued, and inspired to grow. I envision a BPW where mentorship flourishes, friendships are formed, ideas are shared openly, and women champion one another’s success. A place where collaboration replaces competition and where sisterhood becomes our greatest strength.

BPW is more than a networking organization. It is a community of women dedicated to making a difference, in our professions, in our families, and throughout our community. Through scholarships, educational programs, advocacy efforts, volunteer opportunities, and leadership development, we continue to invest in the future of women and girls.

As a former television journalist, business owner, educator, author, and lifelong learner, I have been fortunate to witness the incredible impact that encouragement and mentorship can have on a person’s life. I believe that when women support one another, there is no limit to what we can accomplish together.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, executive, educator, healthcare professional, student, retiree, or someone simply looking to connect with like-minded women, there is a place for you here.

I invite you to join us as we continue building a stronger, more inclusive, and more vibrant BPW. Together, we can strengthen our community, create opportunities for future generations, and ensure that the next century of BPW is even more impactful than the last.

Thank you for visiting our website. I hope to personally welcome you to one of our upcoming events and introduce you to the incredible women who make this organization so special.

With gratitude, respect, and sisterhood,

Paula Fidalgo

Paula Fidalgo

President

Schenectady Business and Professional Women’s Club

“Empowered women empower women. Together, we rise.”