Dr. Marsha Firestone

Dr. Marsha Firestone is founder and president of the Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO), which supports women who own businesses that annually gross over two million dollars. The WPO operates in 31 locations across the USA and Canada, providing a valuable network for female entrepreneurs. Previously, she served as Vice President of Women Incorporated and of Training and Counseling at the American Woman’s Economic Development Corporation (AWED). Her extensive career also includes roles such as National Executive Director of Women's American ORT, and faculty positions at the American Management Association, the City University of New York, and Adelphi University.

Dr. Firestone has contributed significantly to the field of entrepreneurship through her research and publications, which include works on adult learning theory, nonverbal communication, managerial competency, and "The Busy Woman's Guide to Successful Self-Employment." A recognized expert in female entrepreneurship, she frequently speaks at various forums on topics related to business leadership and female empowerment. Some of her notable presentations have taken place at institutions such as Harvard University, Tulane University, and international venues like Unicul International in Tokyo, Japan.

Dr. Firestone holds a Master’s degree in Communication from Teacher's College of New York and a Ph.D. in Communication from Columbia University, where the distinguished Margaret Mead was a member of her dissertation committee. She is actively involved in community activities and serves on several advisory boards, such as the New York Women's Agenda and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. She has been recognized with multiple awards, including the special achievement award from Woman, Inc. of Jamaica, the Applause Award from the Women's Business Enterprise National Council, and the Outstanding Alumna Award from Sophie Newcomb College of Tulane University. In 2003, she was appointed to the National Women’s Business Council, advising the President and Congress on issues pertinent to women in business. In 1998, she led The Women's Economic Summit, which developed and presented a master plan for accelerating the growth of women's businesses to Congress.