2025 Keynote Speaker: Lura Smith
We are thrilled to announce our keynote speaker, Lura Smith. Over 50 years ago, Lura and her husband, Robert, relocated to Lowell from New Orleans, Louisiana. A graduate of Lesley University’s School of Management, Lura began her professional career as a senior marketing manager at Wang Laboratories, where she worked for 11 years. In 1994, she transitioned to Middlesex Community College as the assistant to former President Carole Cowan, a role she held with dedication for 23 years until her retirement in 2017. In 1999, Lura and her family collaborated with the college to establish the Lura Smith Fund, which provides scholarships, programs, and events that honor the enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lura’s inspirational leadership and steadfast commitment to our community have made a lasting impact. We invite you to join us on Monday, March 24, as we hear from this extraordinary woman and are moved by her powerful words.
2025 Emcee: Thao Lan
Thao Lan is a dedicated mother, entrepreneur, community leader, and creator passionate about uplifting others and fostering meaningful connections. She founded Push Muscular Restoration, a wellness practice in North Chelmsford specializing in deep tissue and sports therapy. Through her work, Thao supports endurance athletes and individuals seeking holistic alternatives to surgery by providing targeted treatments that enhance performance, expedite recovery, and alleviate pain.
In addition to her work in wellness, Thao is the creator of the YouTube series Your (Favorite) Nosey Neighbor. The show celebrates unsung heroes in the community, spotlighting individuals whose everyday contributions make a lasting impact. By sharing their stories, Thao brings awareness to the strength and resilience within her community and inspires others to get involved.
A first-generation Cambodian American, Thao’s commitment to service is deeply personal. She serves on the boards of directors for two prominent nonprofits: Coalition for a Better Acre and Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, which help connect underserved populations with essential resources. Her journey from receiving community support upon arriving in Lowell in the 1980s to becoming a community advocate and leader inspires her work to give back and mentor others.
Thao is also a published author and certified Infant Massage Teacher. Beyond her professional and creative endeavors, she actively participates in local organizing efforts, including The Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, The Wish Project, and the Women’s Accelerator’s She-Rise Gala. A proud advocate for work-life balance, Thao encourages women to pursue their ambitions while nurturing strong family connections.
Through her leadership at Push Muscular Restoration, her YouTube series, and her dedication to the greater Lowell community, Thao continues to uplift, inspire, and connect those around her.
“Lowell Women’s Week is a component fund of the Greater Lowell Community Foundation.”
Lowell Women's Week 