by Sarah Brede
EWI of Spokane Chapter President
Dear EWI of Spokane Members,
This month, we’re building on momentum, on community, and on everything we’ve been working toward together.
And we’re doing it at the Museum of Arts and Culture, better known as the MAC — one of our very own member firms.
Yes, we’re meeting at a museum. And yes, there happens to be an incredible LEGO exhibit there right now, which I am far too excited about. There’s something fitting about that, though. We’ve spent this entire year talking about building — building committees, building a strategic planning structure, building deeper connections with each other. Turns out a room full of LEGO isn’t a bad metaphor for what we’re doing together. It also happens to be St. Patrick’s Day, so wear your favorite green and let’s make it festive. There won’t be any green beer — the MAC is not quite that kind of venue — but I’ll take it as an excuse to dress for the occasion.
The Work Happening on Our Committees
I want to take a moment to acknowledge the committee work that’s underway across our chapter. Hearing updates from each of the chairs at our February meeting was a good reminder of how much is happening behind the scenes — Programs, Marketing & Communications, Philanthropy, Scholarship, Fundraising, and Retention & Recruitment are all active and doing meaningful work. A special shout-out to our Marketing & Communications committee — it’s a welcoming place to learn new skills or lend your voice, and no experience is required. Every committee meeting is open to anyone who wants to check it out. No pressure, no commitment. Check the bottom of this Connect for times and locations.
On AI, Change, and That Feeling in Your Stomach
Stephanie High gave us a lot to think about in February. She covered a remarkable amount of ground in a short time, and honestly, I wish we’d had another hour with her. The questions from the room were so good — it was fascinating to hear all the different ways our members are already using AI, and equally fascinating to hear where the hesitation lives.
Stephanie compared this moment to the Industrial Revolution, a technology so fundamentally new that it changed the shape of society itself. I won’t pretend that doesn’t stir up a little anxiety. Change on that scale is genuinely unsettling. But if I’ve learned anything from this community of women, it’s that we don’t sit on the sidelines when something big is happening. We lean in, we ask questions, we figure it out together. I don’t think AI is any different.
The FOMO Promo Is Real — and It Ends This Month
EWI Corporate is offering $100 off dues for new members through the end of March. This promotion is called the FOMO Promo, and frankly, the name fits. If you’ve been thinking about someone who would thrive in this organization — a colleague, a connection, someone who’s been curious but hasn’t made the leap — now is the moment to reach out to them. Our chapter’s health and sustainability depend on all of us playing a role in welcoming new members, and right now, the timing couldn’t be better. Don’t let March end without making that call.
Mark Your Calendars: April Anniversary Meeting
Before I let you go, please put April 21st on your calendar right now and protect it. Our Chapter Anniversary Meeting is one of the most significant events of our year, and this one is going to be special. We have a big attendance goal for this event, and the best way to get there is for everyone to bring a guest. Invite your firm’s executive. Invite a colleague who’s been curious about EWI. Invite a guest who deserves to see this community in action. We teased this last month, and now I’m saying it plainly: this is a moment that calls for all of us to show up and bring someone with us. Start thinking about who that person is for you, and then make the ask. When you’re ready to RSVP, use the guest link found lower in this Connect. Just be sure to note that your guest is for the April meeting in the form.
I’ll see you at the MAC. Come ready to be inspired, to connect, and maybe to be just a little awed by what you can build with the right pieces.
With gratitude,
Sarah
President, EWI of Spokane
EWI: Where diverse businesses come together for Connections, Careers, and Community.