The Threads that Connect Us

The threads that connect us: a conversation with Shaunna J. Edwards & Alyson Richman, co-authors of The Thread Collectors

Join us as we weave, ravel, and stitch together the threads that connect us in celebration of all women.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Principal Financial Group®, Chrysalis Foundation, Iowa Women’s Foundation, and Women Lead Change welcome you to hear USA Today bestselling and no.1 international bestselling author of historical novels, Alyson Richman, and corporate lawyer, turned author and talent management professional, Shaunna J. Edwards, in conversation with Suzanna de Baca, president and CEO of Business Publications Corporation (BPC). The authors have created a historical novel featuring main characters inspired by the authors’ own family histories and a tale that focuses on building bridges, finding purpose, and leaning towards light during dark times.

The March 7 event will be hosted in the Principal® Auditorium at 711 High Street in downtown Des Moines. A reception will immediately follow the discussion, which will include book signing, sweet treats, and more. Guests should enter the auditorium via the doors on 8th Street. Metered street parking and a public lot, located at 9th Street and Grand Avenue, are available. The program is open to supporters of Chrysalis Foundation, Iowa Women’s Foundation, and Women Lead Change, Principal employees, and community members.

The event is free and advance registration is required.

Registration: Register by March 4, 2024, to secure your seat.

About the speakers

Shaunna Edwards has a BA in literature from Harvard College and a JD from NYU School of Law. A former corporate lawyer, she now works in talent management and diversity, equity and inclusion. She is a native Louisianian, raised in New Orleans, and currently lives in Harlem with her husband. The Thread Collectors is her first novel.

Alyson Richman is the USA Today and #1 international bestselling author of several historical novels, including The Velvet Hours, The Garden of Letters, and The Lost Wife, which is currently in development for a major motion picture. Alyson graduated from Wellesley College with a degree in art history and Japanese studies. She is an accomplished painter and her novels combine her deep love of art, historical research, and travel. Alyson's novels have been published in twenty-five languages and have reached bestseller lists both in the United States and abroad. She lives on Long Island with her husband and two children, where she is currently at work on her next novel.

Suzanna de Baca is president and CEO of Business Publications Corporation (BPC). An experienced CEO, board director and author, she has extensive executive leadership experience in media, health care, and financial services. Suzanna has published articles and has been interviewed on leadership and governance topics at a wide variety of outlets, including: New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Time Magazine, US News & World Report, Forbes, MSNBC, CNBC, National Public Radio, and others. She serves on numerous corporate, industry and nonprofit boards, is active in the community and is a published poet. Ms. de Baca graduated from Iowa State University (with Distinction) and holds an MBA from the Harvard University School of Business Administration.

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