The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) today announced its 2016-2017 Board of Directors. The board is comprised of a dynamic and diverse group of women from across the country who will continue NAWBO's mission of elevating women into greater economic, professional, social and political spheres worldwide.

"There's no better time to be a female business owner—they're the fastest-growing sector in the U.S. economy today," said Crystal Arredondo, NAWBO National Board Immediate Past Chair. "Since our founding in 1975, NAWBO continues to change the culture and face of business by leveraging its strong network of voices to give women business owners access to the tools that are necessary to pursue their dreams. We are fortunate to have these new and returning members join the 2016-2017 Board of Directors, who I know will transform public policy in ways that benefit, support and propel women business owners."

The 2016-2017 NAWBO Board of Directors will be comprised of: Teresa Meares – Chair; Crystal Arredondo – Past Chair; Jeanette Armbrust, Molly Gimmel, Loreen Gilbert, Diane E. Ferry, Shaila Mistry and Mary Cravets.

"I am delighted to welcome these women to the National Board of Directors, and am confident that together we can continue to impact change and progress for future generations of women entrepreneurs," said Teresa Meares, incoming NAWBO National Board Chair. "When women do well, they inspire and empower others to do the same. I look forward to working with this incredible group of women to ensure that we elevate female entrepreneurs into greater economic, professional, social and political spheres worldwide."

The new Board will be formally introduced to the business community at the National Women's Business Conference hosted by NAWBO, held September 18-20 in Columbus, Ohio.

About NAWBO

Founded in 1975, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is the unified voice of America's more than 9.1 million women-owned businesses representing the fastest growing segment of the economy. NAWBO is the only dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries. NAWBO develops programs that help navigate women entrepreneurs through the various stages of their business growth.