As the year and my tenure as president come to an end, I’ve been reflecting on what RWN has accomplished over the past 2 years.

At the Strategic Taskforce’s recommendation, the Board approved updating our brand, website and presence in the community. Work began in March 2018 leading to the unveiling of our new logo last November as we celebrated RWN’s 40th year with a spectacular party. The current website was launched the day after.

This year, our professional development program, formerly The Summit, was moved to June and renamed the Spring Symposium. It was a wonderful day mixed with workshops, networking and connections.

In May 2018, Sister Diana Dolce was recipient of the 32nd Annual W Award. We just celebrated yet another extremely successful W Award with this year’s recipient being Sujatha Ramanujan.

RWN’s work continues by exploring ways to have the organization reflect the diversity and richness of our community. To support that initiative, the Board recently created the position, VP of Diversity & Inclusion.

I’ve witnessed a revitalization and renewal of the commitment of the Board and an excitement among the members, committees and the community.

If you would like to help RWN as we move into the next decade, please fill out a leadership application. Or, dip your toe in the water and join a committee. We are always looking for fresh, forward-thinking ideas.

I’m grateful for our dedicated, motivated and creative volunteers. It is you who keep RWN flourishing. If you aren’t already, I hope you will take the time to get involved. We need your voice.

We have several Board members who are completing their service. We are deeply appreciative for the time and resources they have given to RWN. Please be sure to thank Holly Hewins, Carol Kennedy, Dawn Hampsey, Susan Jefferson, Cynthia Ely and Caitlin Drago when you see them.

We are indebted to Sandy Richardson, our Director of Operations, for her continued hard work and dedication. Thank you, Sandy!

When I joined RWN 10 years ago, I never dreamt that I would be president one day. This experience has not only given me the opportunity to hone my leadership skills, it has extended and deepened my relationships with the Board, the members of RWN and the community.

Please join me in welcoming Megan Mills as president for 2020 as well as the incoming Board members. It has been a pleasure working alongside Megan this year to create as seamless a transition as possible. I am confident that, under Megan’s leadership, we will continue to move the mission and vision of RWN forward.

Thank you for the honor and privilege it has been to serve as your president.

I wish you a safe and healthy holiday season!

With gratitude,

Linda Heeler