Gratitude, Community, and Connections

As I end my term as President, I would like to express my humble appreciation to every member of NFBPWC for trusting me with the opportunity to serve you as a leader of this organization for two terms.  I have had the honor of serving as Vice President of Membership under two incredible National Presidents, Elizabeth Benham and Sandra Thompson.  Both women worked with me to understand the intricacies of BPW and inspired me to be a leader in service to our organization and its members.  I have served alongside two phenomenal Executive Committees over the past four years, and I am extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish for NFBPWC.

Thank you to every member who dedicated time and experience as a Chair, a Taskforce Chair, or a Special Chair. Our organization thrives when we have full participation at the National level, and we have been fortunate to have inspirational leaders in these positions. The goals and aspirations of our members were boldly realized due to the commitment of these committees. Our success can be celebrated by all of us! We truly have cultivated connections and created a community in which business and professional women can thrive through education, advocacy, and unity.

NFBPWC exhibits the idea that collectively, our influence is stronger. We can accomplish more by raising our voices together and the women of today need to hear us. The women of tomorrow want to see us standing strong against misogyny, racism, violence, and injustice. We have the power to make a difference as we continue to honor our interconnectedness as humans, more specifically as women.

As we elect and appoint new leaders, I implore each of you to consider how you might have an opportunity to provide constructive input and to find your own unique path in this organization. This is a chance to develop your potential, and that of NFBPWC, in a safe and welcoming space. There is space to continue to bring your ideas, projects, and your own light forward.

Let us celebrate our successes as individuals and as an organization! Please accept my personal invitation to all NFBPWC members to join us at our Biennial Conference in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, or our Hybrid option, July 18-21, 2024. Look for details on our website: www.nfbpwc.org.

Thank you all for offering this unique and inspirational community experience to each other. It is one in which we can find solace and solutions. And let us not forget to be kind and accepting of each member’s journey in this organization as we endure these extraordinary moments of history (and herstory). NFBPWC will continue to Cultivate Connections, Create Community beyond this presidency. Sending personal wishes of celebration, health, and progress around the globe through the next biennium!

Kind Regards,

Megan Shellman-Rickard, NBPWC President (2020-2024)