The inspiration behind FLOurish is longtime HR executive, Florence Pramberger. Pramberger mentored the founder and president of The Millinger Group, Rona Millinger, throughout her career. After Pramberger lost her battle with cancer last year, Millinger decided to create a professional development program in her memory. “I wanted to continue giving what Florence no longer can: coaching, development and guidance for women looking to contribute, progress, and advance in work and personal lives,” said Millinger. 

Through her research and development, Millinger was introduced to Amanda Wittstrom-Higgins, founder of Dream Big Darling [DBD]. DBD is a non-profit dedicated to fostering the success of women in wine and spirits through education, life enhancement, mentorship, and professional retreats. 

“I’m a big proponent of women supporting women which is why I started Dream Big Darling,” said Wittstrom-Higgins. “When I heard Rona and FLOrence’s story, I was inspired. Together we developed a powerful program to help women identify their strengths and accelerate their professional success, something I wish I had access to early in my career.”

Pramberger spent the last eight years of her career with Mast-Jägermeister US, so when news of FLOurish reached executives at the company, they were immediately onboard. “When word got back to us that our darling Flomeister had inspired such a wonderful cause, we knew we had to be involved. I especially love how personal these scholarships are as mentoring is an integral part of the program,” exclaimed Jeff Popkin, CEO of Mast-Jägermeister US. “I will personally donate my time and resources to the mentoring portion of FLOurish scholarships.”

Through the contribution of Mast-Jägermeister US, an additional 85 women will benefit from this program over the next six years — FLOurish was originally open to five women per year thanks to DBD and The Millinger Group. “This injection of funds will allow FLOurish to really blossom. By elevating 85 women, we are actually elevating hundreds of women as our graduates flourish and bring other women along,” said Wittstrom-Higgins. “We couldn’t be happier Mast-Jägermeister decided to come on board and we look forward to working closely with them in the years to come.” 

“Every woman is unique in their strengths and skills, therefore each individual will receive a personalized program through the FLOurish Scholarship. However, our goal is universal, female guidance and empowerment in the work force,” adds Millinger. “I hope Florence can see the good she has inspired.”