Rotary Happenings: Rotarians learn about SCBWA and its focus
Sanibel is known for its pristine beaches and shelling. But did you also know that it is home to many successful women entrepreneurs? Formerly the Sanibel Captiva Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association, the Sanibel Captiva Business Women’s Association has been steadily increasing its membership since its inception in the summer of 2020. SCBWA President Taylor Osborne recently shared with the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club information about the organization.
When the coronavirus hit in March of 2020, all meetings were suspended for the local ABWA chapter. It also forced its members to re-evaluate their involvement with the national group. The members agreed the chapter should focus on localizing the group’s efforts. Unanimously, the members voted to close the local chapter and create the SCBWA. The new organization is dedicated to supporting education and the advancement of women’s career development on Sanibel and Captiva through mentoring, continuing education, scholarships, networking opportunities and recognition.
Osborne hold a Bachelor of Science in psychology and sociology from the Miami University of Ohio. She attended graduate school at Xavier University, studying in the field of psychology. While working toward her master’s degree, Osborne focused her energy toward the at-risk-youth population. She created programs, scholarship opportunities and outreach for the underserved youth in her area. It was during this time that Osborne fostered and adopted her eldest child, Nathaniel. Upon completing her graduate studies, she entered the field of pharmaceuticals. Osborne has worked for pharmaceutical corporations in sales and marketing. She has served in senior leadership role and developed training materials, and she was a senior advisor.
In 2017, Osborne co-founded Iris Print & Designs and SanCap Apparel.
The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club holds a meeting on Fridays at 8 a.m. at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and via Zoom; doors open at 7:30 a.m. To attend in person, email William.Harkey@gmail.com before the meeting. For more information, visit sanibelrotary.org or www.facebook.com/sancaprotary.