News Summary
The Augusta Metro Chamber hosted its Women in Business Signature event, themed ‘Champions On and Off The Court.’ Keynote speaker Debbie Antonelli inspired attendees with her experiences in sports broadcasting and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. The event focused on networking and empowerment, highlighting the importance of women’s roles in the workforce. The Chamber continues to support women’s advancement through mentorship and resources, encouraging participants to embrace challenges in their careers.
Augusta – The Augusta Metro Chamber’s Women in Business Program held its 2025 Signature event on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, celebrating and empowering women in the workforce. This year’s theme, “Champions On and Off The Court,” resonated with attendees as they gathered to share experiences and insights.
Keynote speaker Debbie Antonelli, a renowned sports broadcaster with 38 years of experience in NBA and college basketball, delivered an inspiring address. Antonelli, who has worked with prominent networks like ESPN and CBS, emphasized the significance of finding one’s passion and joy in various pursuits. Her talk attracted attendees interested in engaging in conversations about basketball while donning sneakers, fostering an atmosphere of casual camaraderie.
Recognized for her exceptional contributions to basketball broadcasting, Antonelli is also a two-time Emmy award winner. Apart from her broadcasting achievements, she is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, inspired by her son with Down Syndrome. In this spirit, she founded the “24 Hours Nothing But Net” fundraiser, which has successfully raised over $1.4 million for Special Olympics over the past seven years.
During her presentation, Antonelli encouraged participants to embrace challenges and highlighted the importance of teamwork in both business and personal contexts. She shared her personal mantra centered on building, empowering, and serving others, reinforcing the event’s theme of championing women’s roles both in their careers and communities.
Event Highlights
The event included interactive sessions focused on networking and fostering connections among women in various industries. Participants enjoyed discussing shared experiences and challenges, enhancing support for one another in their professional journeys.
The Augusta Metro Chamber aims to create a platform where women can come together to share insights, celebrate achievements, and motivate each other to continue moving forward in their careers. This gathering stands as a testament to the importance of supporting women in business and recognizing their contributions to the workforce.
Background of the Women in Business Program
The Augusta Metro Chamber’s Women in Business Program has a long-standing commitment to advocating for women’s empowerment and leadership. Established to foster an inclusive environment, it provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help women succeed in their professions. Annually, the program hosts signature events that attract professionals from various sectors, reflecting the dynamic nature of women’s roles in today’s workforce.
These events not only highlight successful women like Antonelli but also engage attendees in pertinent discussions surrounding issues that women face in the workplace. By featuring influential speakers and facilitating workshops, the Augusta Metro Chamber continues to play a vital role in promoting women’s advancement in business.
Looking Ahead
As the event concluded, attendees expressed their appreciation for the inspiration garnered, looking forward to implementing the lessons learned in their own careers. The Chamber plans to organize more initiatives and events aimed at further empowering women, ensuring that the discussion of challenges and successes continues well beyond the event’s horizon.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Augusta University Opens New Sports Performance Center
Delta Air Lines Recognized as Best Employer in Georgia
Community Unites to Raise Breast Cancer Awareness
Federal Government Shutdown Affects TSA Workers in Georgia
Economic Consequences of Government Shutdown on Georgia and South Carolina
Rome Tennis Center Receives USTA Award for Excellence
Versant Diagnostics Partners with SouthEastern Pathology
Augusta’s Downtown Set for Major Hotel Development
Raymond James Welcomes New Advisors to LaGrange Office
I-P Comm Agency Leads Minority Business Growth in Atlanta
Additional Resources
- WJBF: Augusta Metro Chamber Holds Women’s Event
- Wikipedia: Women in Business
- WFXG: Debbie Antonelli Speaks at Women in Business Event
- Google Search: Women in Business
- WJBF Video: Women’s Business Event
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women in Business
- Golf Business News: Augusta National Women’s Amateur
- Google News: Augusta Metro Chamber
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
