Category: Letter from the President

Our anniversary meeting exceeded every expectation I had going in.

The turnout, the energy, the conversations that lingered well past the program, it was one of those nights that reminds you exactly why EWI matters.

here’s a moment that keeps coming back to me from our March meeting at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.

We were surrounded by art — real art, the kind that asks something of you — and Wes Jessup, the MAC’s Executive Director, was talking about why spaces like that matter. What they do for a community. What happens when people come together inside them. And I couldn’t help but think: this is exactly what we do. This is EWI.

This month, we’re building on momentum, on community, and on everything we’ve been working toward together.

We’re in the dregs of winter, friends, but I can feel the promise of spring just around the corner. And if January’s meeting was any indication, we’re building some serious momentum to carry us through these last cold weeks!

Now that we’re in 2026, I’ve been thinking a lot about endings and beginnings; not just about what we left behind, but what we accomplished along the way. It’s so easy to focus on what’s next without pausing to acknowledge how far we’ve come. So, before we dive deeper into the new year, I want to take a moment to celebrate.

What a powerful start to this chapter year. As I reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared, from the inspiration of our Leadership Conference and Annual Meeting to the September chapter gathering, I’m reminded of why this organization matters so deeply.

What a powerful start to this chapter year. As I reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared, from the inspiration of our Leadership Conference and Annual Meeting to the September chapter gathering, I’m reminded of why this organization matters so deeply.

What a powerful start to this chapter year. As I reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared, from the inspiration of our Leadership Conference and Annual Meeting to the September chapter gathering, I’m reminded of why this organization matters so deeply.

As I sit down to write this final message, I find myself reflecting on the past year with a full heart. What a journey it has been of growth, of connection, and of showing up for one another in ways big and small.

I hope everyone is enjoying the summer so far! As we head into August, I want to take a moment to reflect on last month’s meeting at Manito Park. It was truly special to see so many of you, and even some of your families, in such a beautiful setting. It reminded me of the real, personal connections EWI fosters, not just in our careers, but in our lives.

Summer is finally here, and with it comes sunshine, road trips, barbecues, lake days, and a little bit of that magical slowdown we all secretly crave. This month’s EWI of Spokane meeting is all about Summer Fun and I can’t think of a better theme to embrace as we head into the heart of the season.

Last month, we had the absolute honor of presenting scholarships to some truly outstanding students during our annual Scholarship Banquet.

Spring has officially sprung, and so has our energy after an incredible April Anniversary Meeting! Can we just take a moment to give a standing ovation to the phenomenal Dr. Shari McMahan?  She didn’t just speak to us—she lit up the room with her wisdom, wit, and powerhouse presence. Shari reminded us what it means to lead with authenticity, grit, and heart, and maybe made us all want to add a few more sparkles to our professional toolkits!

April is a big month. Not just because it finally feels like spring is showing up (we hope), but because April 17th marks 46 years of EWI of Spokane—and coincidentally, my 39th trip around the sun. I’d say we’ve both aged pretty well!

Our last meeting at Sonderen Packaging was nothing short of inspiring! A huge thank you to Keva Sonderen for sharing her wisdom on building confidence and connection through the power of saying yes—and just as importantly, saying no, but thanks for asking.

February, a month that celebrates connection, leadership, and the strength of diverse voices, I want to take a moment to talk about something that fuels our success, inclusion.

January marks not only a fresh start but also an opportunity to reflect on the successes we’ve achieved together and the goals we aspire to accomplish in the year ahead.

As the holiday season fills the air with a sense of joy and connection, I find myself reflecting on the meaningful moments that shaped this year. One of the highlights was our November meeting at the Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho. What a fitting time to celebrate the values of courage, confidence, and character—ideals that shine brightly during this season of giving and growth.

As we step into November, I am so thankful for the valuable insights we shared at last month’s Chapter meeting. Our guest speaker, and valued member, Bridget Walden from Merrill Lynch, provided a thorough analysis of the current state of our economy, offering perspectives that were both eye-opening and empowering.

After last month’s meeting I hope you all left as energized and inspired as I did! As I step into my role as President, I’m deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received from each of you. Our September meeting was a reminder of the incredible community we’ve built together, and I was honored to share my vision for the year ahead.