A short history of the world of PWI

The Professional Women’s Initiative of Galena was born after a discussion between co founders B’Ann Dittmar and Mary Sheahen. Both are business women in Galena and were looking to create opportunities for women to connect and support one another.

The initial discussion occurred late in 2005 and the two pulled together a focus group of local women to present the proposed idea and seek feedback.

That focus group loved the idea and signed on to be the first official board of PWI. Those members included: Amy Alderman, Melissa Kaiser (now Conley), Jennifer Steines, Betty Fields, Jackie Richardson, Carrie Melton, Robin Vaughn, B’Ann Dittmar and Mary Sheahen.

The goals set forth were: networking with other women, development of new relationships and friendships, creating an expanded support network, sharing expertise and having fun!!!

The first meeting of PWI, after a successful incorporation as a non profit organization, was held on March 8, 2006 and drew 125 people. The goals were shared with the larger group and members were signed up.

Every month since then, the meetings have included an excellent presentation or event. Topics range from professional to personal improvement to just plain fun. Three other events are also part of this: booth event, golf outing and holiday cocktail party.  PWI also gave three scholarships of 1000.00 each to young Galena women attending college. This money came from a very successful golf outing in 2007.

Membership continues to remain very steady and feedback from members has kept the organization consistently changing to meet the needs of the members. New board members have added new views and approaches to the organization. All board members, since the organization was conceived, have been active and involved, which is what contributes to an ongoing vibrant networking and learning opportunity.

Mary Sheahen 7.22.2008

 

 

To understand more about how PWI functions, check out our By laws click now!