My NFBPWC Journey: From Local Waters to Global Stages

Reflecting on my 18-year BPW journey—from serving as Boulder, Colorado, Chapter President to leading as the NFBPWC National President (2020–2024)—my heart overflows with gratitude.

While our legacy is anchored by visionary founders, its true heartbeat remains our remarkable members.

My most cherished memories seamlessly bridge Colorado joy with global impact. Locally, white-water rafting down the Taylor River in Gunnison, CO, with fellow members closed a BPW Colorado convention in a burst of pure laughter and camaraderie. Globally, sharing breakfast in Grand Cayman with then-IFBPW President Yasmin Darwich in 2015 ignited my international passion. That spark led me to the base of the pyramids for my first International Congress in Cairo in 2017, and ultimately to the United Nations in New York City, proudly representing IFBPW as a delegate to the Commission on the Status of Women and incredible opportunity perfectly exemplify our present strength.

Some of those who traveled to Egypt.

Looking ahead, our mission demands that same bold vision. For over a century, BPW has marched for systemic change. My ultimate hope for our future is a world where the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is finally certified and published as the 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution. Enshrining the ERA will secure a permanent legal bedrock for gender equity that cannot be dismantled, ensuring equal participation in power and decision-making becomes an unshakeable reality. Together, we honor our past, champion our present, and build a more equitable future.

The crew who went white-water rafting down the Taylor River in Gunnison, CO.

MEGAN SHELLMAN-RICKARD
Immediate Past President
2024-2026
immpastpresident@nfbpwc.org