When women gather to learn and share new experiences, we empower each other, strengthen our bonds, and create something meaningful. Join us in creating a meaningful day of Learning, Laughing, Lunching. Hear a memorable speaker and sample topics of interest all in one incredible day. Morning and afternoon workshop choices cover topics from history to literature to the arts!

Keynote Speaker: Abby Ellin

Abby Ellin stands out as an expert in the uncomfortable issues of today—trust and treachery; underdogs; duplicity and gaslighting.

In high demand for writing and social commentary, she is a familiar voice in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and on ABC News. Her recent work includes Executive Producer and Host of Impostors: The Commander, the second season of the #1 Spotify original podcast series.

Through her cautionary yet resilient narratives that extend beyond mere human-interest stories, Abby teaches us how to cultivate a sixth sense for trust. Her personal journey through broken trust, tangled emotions, denial, embarrassment, retreat, and self-soothing inspired her best-selling book, Duped: Double Lives, False Identities, and the Con Man I Almost Married.

Abby chooses to highlight hope by pushing aside the narcissists, con artists, charlatans, gangsters, and just plain bad people dominating the news often celebrated rather than vilified. Why do shows like The Sopranos attract more attention than The Good Place? What are the societal implications of normalizing government fraud and deception? Where are we headed as a society—toward Heaven Can Wait or Idiocracy?

Funny, engaging, and insightful, Abby shares tales relatable across the board. A great fit for those of us searching for certainty and discovery during strange times; she chronicles life with honesty, wit and lessons for all. (Includes morning coffee and hot buffet lunch)

Abby Ellin’s writing is everything her fiancé pretended to be: witty, vulnerable, brave, smart, and honest. —Michael Finkel, author of the National Bestseller, The Stranger in the Woods

Women’s Conference 2025 Workshops

Morning Workshops

1. Crafting a Charcuterie Board (seating is limited)

Presented by Cheese All That NJ

“Board” with cheese platters? Learn tips for crafting irresistible charcuterie boards to impress, friends, family, and yourself! Enjoy a tasting!

2. Start Today! Design Your Own Personal Wellness Plan

Julie Egbert, NBC-HWC

Through personalized coaching and reflective exercises, identify your unique wellness priorities and transform general aspirations into specific, achievable goals. Leave with concrete action steps, resources for continued support, and the confidence to begin your wellness transformation now.

3. The Body in Art Though the Ages: The Evolution of Art & Concept of Beauty

Jenny Santa Maria, teaching artist and art coach

Trace the depiction of the human body in art from prehistoric goddesses in Northern Europe to ancient Greece’s idealized forms, medieval stylization, and the Renaissance’s revival of classical ideals, continuing into modern times. Explore how cultural beliefs, religious values, and societal norms shape perceptions of beauty and artistic expression.

4. Protecting Yourself from Cybercrime

Professor John Rossi, NYU (retired)

Every year, cybercrime fraud results in billions of dollars in losses. Equip yourself and others with the knowledge to identify and report scams effectively. Vigilance and proactive measures are key to protecting yourself in the digital world.

5.  The Wives of Henry VIII

Lyndell O’Hara, PhD

Join one of Lifelong Learning’s favorite historians for an intriguing exploration into the lives of the wives of Henry VIII.

6. Wednesday Morning: Growing Up in Grief

Christine Epstein, author

Local author Christine Epstein discusses her memoir, a heartfelt exploration of grief and self-discovery following the loss of her father on September 11, 2001. The title “Wednesday Morning” symbolizes Epstein’s journey from feeling stuck in the past to finally reaching a place of acceptance and forward movement.

Afternoon Workshops

7. The History of Women & Challah

Rachael Goldman, PhD, AAA

Historically, the ritual and preparation of festivals and holidays has been the responsibility of women with bread at the center of many celebrations. Discover the history of Challah and its association with women’s cultural and societal roles and understand Challah’s special function at festivals and weddings. Review a variety of recipes and tackle the question: Should Challah be savory or sweet? Includes a Challah tasting.

8. Healing and Thriving: Approaches for Post-Traumatic Growth

Diane Lang, MA, PPC

Everyone faces challenging times that can leave lasting scars. By understanding the science of post-traumatic growth, we can foster greater resilience, gratitude, and personal evolution. Discover practical strategies to nurture resilience and growth, while creating a renewed sense of purpose and meaningful connections.

1. Pressing Questions About Wine?  Wine Made Simple

Gerard St-Cyr, author, My Wine Guide and Womanity

If you have ever entered a wine shop and felt daunted by the vast selection or are a wine lover eager to expand your knowledge, stomp out your doubt with wine enthusiast Jerry St-Cyr in a fun and interactive workshop. Learn about grape-growing regions, how to decode labels, and how to make the perfect selection.

10. Step Boldly into Your Next Act: Embracing Change

Jacqueline Robinson, Second Act lifestyle blogger

Get ready to embrace your next act with confidence and purpose. Through engaging discussions, self-reflection, and practical strategies, participants will explore what it means to transition successfully into your next phase of life, overcoming limiting beliefs and creating a fulfilling life in this new chapter.

11. Unearth Your Cosmic Self: Astrology Unlocked

Dawn Dittmar, astrologer and author of Pattie’s Best Deal and It Can’t Rain This Hard Forever

Embark on a fun, interactive journey where the wonders of astrology meet self-discovery. Learn how the universe influences your life and relationships. Join Dawn for an uplifting experience full of laughter, learning, and celestial surprises.

L. Get Into the Flow! Yoga for Readers, Writers, and Sitters

 Molly Cauterucci Fox and Regina Wackerman

Explore the relationship between movement and creativity. Integrate gentle chair yoga flow with writing prompts and readings to encourage self-expression, inspiration, and perspective. Whether an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who loves to sit and ponder, learn to let the flow of movement transform your creative journey.

Click Here to Register $125