EXECUTIVE WOMEN INTERNATIONAL HISTORY
Executive Women International was established in San Francisco,
California, in 1938 when Lucille Johnson Perkins recognized the
importance and potential of an association of key women working
with their executives to promote their firms and improve their
community. On April 29th of that year, articles
of incorporation were filed with the State of California under
the name of Executives' Secretaries, Inc.
In May 1939, the Los Angeles Business Community recognized the
value of such an organization and that city's chapter was chartered.
Since then, additional cities throughout the United States, Canada,
Mexico and Europe have joined the organization, forming a prestigious
and exclusive networking organization of key firms and individuals.
The organization achieved its "international" status
when the first Canadian Chapter was chartered in Calgary in August
1964. In July 1992, the London Chapter of EWI was chartered
and represents the first affiliate established off the North American
Continent. A satellite Chapter in Amsterdam quickly followed
in August 1993.
During the 30th Annual Meeting of the corporation
(May 1977), the organization's name was changed to "Executive
Women International" to reflect the diverse careers held
by its representatives.
COLORADO SPRINGS CHAPTER HISTORY
In January of 1983, representatives from the Denver EWI Chapter
contacted Wanda Reaves, Vice President of Governmental and Internal
Affairs with the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, to consider
establishing a chapter in Colorado Springs. An organizing
committee was formed.
The Colorado Springs Chapter was chartered on September 21, 1983,
at the Broadmoor Hotel, with Wanda Reaves being installed as the
first president. The new chapter established an EWI chartering
record with sixty (60) member firms. The formal event was
attended by representatives from Dallas, Denver, Lexington, Los
Angeles, Memphis, Nashville, Salt Lake City and San Francisco
EWI chapters.
The Colorado Springs Chapter has been held in high regard by
Executive Women International over the past 23 years as the chapter
continues to be very active and has maintained a near capacity
membership.
COLORADO SPRINGS CHAPTER
ASIST SCHOLARSHIP
The EWI ASIST (Adult Students in Scholastic Transition) Scholarship
Fund assists non-traditional adult students in a transitional
period in their lives through educational support and mentorship.
Past recipients include those who have experienced the death of
a spouse, divorce or other difficulties. Such events have
affected their economic ability to gain a college education and
provide for their families. The funds awarded go directly
to the college they are attending in their name. Recipients
may receive continued support until they graduate.
The ASIST Scholarship Fund is supported through various fund-raising
activities by the chapter and the Ways & Means Committee.
|