Katie Gerber, Communications & Engagement Manager, Connecticut Restaurant Association.
By Katie Gerber, Communications & Engagement Manager, Connecticut Restaurant Association
This April, the Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) proudly launched a series of events, CRA Across CT: Women in Hospitality, with the goal of bringing together female leaders driving hospitality across Connecticut. The inaugural event, held at River in Wethersfield, brought together more than 90 female industry leaders from across the state for a powerful morning of connection, conversation and community.
Guests had the opportunity to meet and network with fellow female leaders, operators and industry professionals from across Connecticut, before listening to a powerhouse panel of women. The program was kicked off by State Rep. Kerry Wood, who shared the importance of making your voice heard at the Capitol and gave an update on key bills up for discussion during the 2025 legislative session.
The inspiring panel included Julia Koulouris, Owner of Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre; Ashley Flagg, Owner and Executive Chef of The Laurel; Mira Puka, Director of Finance at DORO Restaurant Group; and Grecia Ludena, Owner of Coracora, moderated by CRA’s VP of Sales and Operations Yvette M. Tavares. Each panelist shared her personal journey, speaking candidly about the successes they’ve achieved and the challenges they’ve overcome throughout their careers.
Scott Dolch, President and CEO, Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA); Ashley Flagg, Owner and Executive Chef, The Laurel; Grecia Ludena, Owner, Coracora; Julia Koulouris, Owner, Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre; Mira Puka, Director of Finance, DORO Restaurant Group; and Yvette M. Tavares, VP of Sales and Operations, CRA.
The discussion centered on how they cultivate supportive workplace cultures, lead by example and navigate the balance between business ownership and personal values. A powerful, recurring theme emerged around the importance of using our voices and standing together to be heard, such as Ludena’s recent testimony at the State Capitol or Flagg’s steadfast advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Each story highlighted how standing together can drive broader change within the industry and beyond.
The event served as a reminder that while challenges remain, the future of hospitality in Connecticut is being shaped by strong, passionate women who are committed to lifting each other up and creating space for the next generation of leaders.
Thank you to our outstanding panelists, to State Rep. Kerry Wood and to the team at River for hosting us. Big thank you to all the attendees for sharing your stories and celebrating the power of women in hospitality. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and building a stronger, more connected industry together.
Ashley Flagg, Owner and Executive Chef, The Laurel; Grecia Ludena, Owner, Coracora; Julia Koulouris, Owner, Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre; and Mira Puka, Director of Finance, DORO Restaurant Group.
The series of CRA Across CT: Women in Hospitality events is made possible by the National Restaurant Association’s Kitchen Cabinet Fund. The Kitchen Cabinet program supports state restaurant associations such as the CRA with developing and mobilizing a grassroots network of industry leaders who can amplify the local impact of restaurants. The CRA identified female leaders to be the focus of the Connecticut program, which aims to develop meaningful relationships with elected officials and organizations through community-driven advocacy.
Save the dates! A reminder of two signature events to mark on your 2025 schedule: The Annual Golf Classic & Chef Farm Dinner is Monday, June 23, and the CRAZIES Awards will be hosted on Monday, Dec. 8. View our full events calendar at ctrestaurant.org.
