The Words Open Worlds Speaker Series, featuring women who will inspire audiences to work toward a more just and equal future for women, concludes Thursday, Nov. 15, with a talk from Rev. Ava Schlesinger, LCSW.

Formerly the Women on the Watch series, this unique three-part series brings together leaders from a range of fields to share stories of courage, creativity, and action.

Rev. Schlesinger has more than 20 years experience working to holistically address short- and long-term symptomatology and human and community cost associated with interpersonal trauma. Working with those who have experienced a wide-range of trauma, including gun violence, human trafficking, domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, and food and income insecurity, has led to her dedication to social movement and change.

A licensed clinical social worker and adjunct professor at NYU’s Silver School of Social Work, Schlesinger is also an interfaith minister.

Each evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour, followed by a talk at 6:30 p.m., which will run approximately one hour. Audience members will then have the chance to meet speakers, purchase books, and engage and reflect with one another.

Tickets are $25 per program and can be purchased online. All proceeds benefit the Rutherfurd Hall Foundation.

This speaking series is jointly hosted by Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County and Rutherfurd Hall. This event’s cocktail hour is sponsored by BW Nice and the event sponsor is Say I Do with Sarah (Brelvi).

Rutherfurd Hall is located at 1686 Route 517 in Allamuchy. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.RutherfurdHall.org.