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 29^th 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 30^th 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.