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A popular television and film performer has been selected as keynote speaker for the Central Valley’s largest women’s event.

Emmy Award winning performer and activist Sheryl Lee Ralph will be the keynote speaker for the 35^th annual 2024 Central California Women’s Conference on September 17^th.

Ralph currently stars in ABC’s hit comedy series, Abbott Elementary and has been in several movies including Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, The Flintstones, and in the popular Broadway production of Dreamgirls.

Ralph  has used her art and fame to give back to the community, founding the DIVA Foundation in 1990 to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and to help empower others to find their force, speak out against abuse, and to follow their dreams.

Sheryl has an acclaimed career both on and off screen, making her not only a staple in the entertainment industry, but an inspiration to women everywhere to never stop pursuing your dreams no matter what stands in your way,” said Karen Franz in a press release.

The Central California Women’s Conference is a one-day conference serving women of all generations, ethnicities and background. The event educates and facilitates idea-sharing about to succeed personally and professionally while juggling both family and community.