Join us for our joint event with Healthcare Businesswomen Association (HBA) for an energizing and honest conversation about the real-life challenges—and superpowers—of women navigating midlife. From hormonal shifts (hello, hot flashes!) to the emotional weight of caregiving, this session dives into the science, the stress, and the strength it takes to thrive through it all. Whether you're pre-, peri-, or post-menopause, juggling careers, kids, or caregiving (or all of the above), this event is your space to feel seen, supported, and empowered. Expect expert insights, relatable stories, and practical tools to help you reclaim your wellness and rediscover the power within. Please consider bringing canned goods to donate to the NC Food Bank.

Note: Each ticket includes appetizers and two drink vouchers.

Program 

5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Registration
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  Networking Reception
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.  Panel Discussion
8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.  Closing & Networking

Speaker Bios

Deidra Hudson, Associate Director of Reimbursement Marketing Operations at Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Moderator

Deidra is the Associate Director of Reimbursement Marketing Operations at Apellis Pharmaceuticals, where she is on the Value Access and Policy team and develops marketing resources and strategy for the field reimbursement team. She leads strategy and planning for the practice management professional education, the practice executive council, and congresses. She has over 20 years of experience in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry, where she has built a reputation as a market access leader and strategist with a patient-centric approach. Deidra is passionate about bridging the gap between payers, providers, and patients. Her background in public policy analysis and managed care early on in her studies and career was the beginning of her love for policy and patient advocacy. She began her career at Prudential Healthcare and then transitioned to biopharma in sales and market access for Parke-Davis, Amgen, Genentech, and Novartis. Deidra serves on the board for the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association and is the current President for the RTP Chapter and on the Health Equity Team. The organization advocates for gender, pay, and health equity. She is also on the Advisory Board for WomenNC and on the Executive Board for the National Panhellenic Council of the Greater Raleigh Area. On a personal note, Deidra has a husband (Kevan), bonus children (Samantha, Cameron, Collin, Chase, Cannon, and Carson), bonus grandchildren (Mayson, Jaylyn), and dogs (Maxwell and Romeo). Deidra has a love for art and design, travel, gardening, biking, and live jazz.

Anita Hudson-Fraley, MD, Physician Provider, Obstetrical Emergency Department at Rex Hospital

Dr. Hudson-Fraley serves as a physician provider in the Obstetrical Emergency Department at Rex Hospital, Raleigh, NC, where she is entrusted with caring for women through both the joys of childbirth and the challenges of obstetrical and gynecological emergencies. For nearly 30 years, she has dedicated her career to making sure women feel heard, validated, and supported during pivotal moments in their lives. Her passion extends beyond medicine, as she educates women about the beauty of their bodies and the importance of integrating emotional and spiritual wellness into their overall health. Deeply committed to service, Dr. Hudson-Fraley is an executive board member of the Raleigh/Wake chapter of the North Carolina A&T State University Alumni Chapter, a volunteer with Step Up Ministry through the Junior League of Raleigh, and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she helps organize the medical team. She also serves on the medical team at Wake Chapel Church, Raleigh, NC, and is a member of the Worship Arts Ministry. On a personal note, she is excited about increasing her stamps on her passport, hosts cooking and wine events in her home. enjoys learning Spanish and loves salsa dancing. Her greatest joy, however, is her family. She is the proud mother of two remarkable young adults — her daughter Veronica, a 2024 Olympian in the discus throw, and her son Vernon, a strategist at Cisco Systems.

Melanie Meadows, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at Duke University Health System

Melanie is currently employed at Duke University Medical Center in the Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit. She has been there for nearly 19 years and is BLS and ACLS certified. Melanie is a member of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the Neurocritical Care Society. Melanie provides critical care to the Neuroscience population. I examine patients, interpret diagnostic studies such as lab results and imaging (Scans, MRI, X-Rays, etc.), and develop a plan of care in collaboration with a supervising physician. Melanie received an Associate's in Nursing (ADN) at Durham Technical Community College, a Bachelor's in Nursing (BSN) at UNC Charlotte, and a Master's in Nursing (MSN) from Duke University.

Jennifer Wilson, Key Account Executive with Labcorp

Jennifer is a Key Account Executive with Labcorp, where she was recently honored as Atlantic Division Rookie of the Year for her client-focused leadership and commitment to innovation in healthcare partnerships. Beyond her corporate role, Jennifer is a founder and leader of the Parents and Caregivers Employee Support (PACES) group under Labcorp’s Women’s Empowerment Network, and she actively contributes to multiple Employee Resource Groups, advancing equity and support for women, caregivers, and underrepresented voices. With more than two decades of experience spanning healthcare operations and community leadership, Jennifer has built a reputation as a connector, someone who bridges business, community, and family needs with creativity and compassion. She serves on boards and committees, including the Women’s Health Equity Community Connections Board and the Alzheimer’s Association Partner Impact Committee, while also volunteering with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, SAFE Food Ministries, and as a Guardian ad Litem advocating for children in the social services and judicial system. Jennifer’s passion for advocacy is deeply personal. As a mother of five children, ages 27 to 5, and a longtime caregiver, including her journey through her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease, she understands the unique challenges of the Sandwich Generation. Her story reflects courage, perseverance, and authenticity, returning to school in her 40s to pursue a degree in healthcare leadership, all while balancing career, caregiving, and community. Jennifer brings a voice that is both professional and deeply relatable. She speaks openly about navigating midlife transitions, caregiving responsibilities, and the hidden strengths women discover in the process. Her mission is to empower others to see themselves not as overwhelmed, but as capable, resourceful, and, in her words, to become the safe place I once longed for.

Pricing Information

• Members: $35
• Non-members*: $45

*Not a Member? Click here to purchase a WIB membership and gain access to our video library, mentorship opportunities, and more.  

Please read WIB's Code of Conduct and Refund Policy.

Note: A confirmation email will be sent after registration has been completed.

Maximum Capacity

120

Parking Information

Free parking is available at the venue.