We are happy to announce our keynote speaker for the first-ever Butler County Women in Business Spring Conference! Allow us to introduce you, Annette Lawless!

Annette is known for many things, but is most recognized as a Murrow and Emmy-award-winning journalist. Currently, she proudly serves as an anchor and investigative reporter at KWCH 12 News.

She knows what being rooted in Rural Success really means. Born in Wellington and a graduate of Kansas State University, she is a celebrated storyteller, known for her in-depth work on cold cases and missing children. Her diligent research has helped law enforcement find trafficked children and convict sex traffickers. She’s been featured in many forms of media across the country, including the LA Times, college research journals, a show with Nancy Grace, and on the Hulu series, “How I Escaped My Cult.”

More than a storyteller, Annette uses her unique skills in multiple modes and genres of media.

She’s also contributed on the big screen, acting in more than 20 films, including The Avengers, Fun Size, Draft Day, and many independent film projects.

At home, Annette enjoys being a homemaker to her husband, a photojournalist at KWCH, and their three children. You’ll often find her in the garden or baking her prized cinnamon rolls.

We’re so excited to share Annette’s journey through wins, loses and all of the ups and downs that come with being Rooted in Rural Success.

The Women in Business Spring Conference is designed to empower and encourage women at every stage of their professional journey. Whether you are a business owner, professional, community leader, or just beginning your career, this conference offers a welcoming space to gain new ideas, build meaningful connections, and leave feeling inspired.

📅 Date: May 6, 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM