PORTLAND – The University of Southern Maine Department of Continuing Education will host the 24th annual Women in Management conference, a daylong event focusing on improving the professional and personal lives of working women. Workshop topics include energy management, dealing with sexual harassment, critical thinking, vocal presence and sustaining life balance.

The final workshop, Getting to Your Car Safely, will be a hands-on session in self-defense with fourth degree black belt Kym Johnson, owner of Villari’s Self Defense Center. The event is set for 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 4, at the Holiday Inn by the Bay, Portland.

The conference keynote speakers are Milbry Polk, co-author of “Women of Discovery,” a book promoting the contributions of extraordinary women around the world, and Belle Linda Halpern, co-author of “Leadership Presence,” and co-founder of Ariel Group, which offers leadership and executive training services.

Other conference activities include book signings, exhibits of art, products, and services, as well as a silent auction to benefit the Maine Women’s Fund.

Registration is $195, which includes lunch and all activities.

To register contact USM Department of Conferences, 68 High St., Portland, Maine 04101, or phone 780-5951 or toll free: (800) 800-4876, ext. 5951; TTY: 780-5646.

E-mail: [email protected]

To be an exhibitor contact Nancy Ansheles at 767-0876 or e-mail, [email protected]

For more information, contact the USM Office of Public Affairs at 780-4200.