Letter from our President, Paige Venable

Dear FWSF Members and Friends,

Maya Angelou, the great American poet, memoirist and civil rights activist, once said, “If you get, give. If you learn, teach.” This statement is a reflection on the true spirit of the FWSF organization, which is exemplified in June each year when the organization awards scholarships to women pursuing a career in finance or a related field. Read about this wonderful event that took place on June 6, 2017, at the City Club of San Francisco.

Five of our prominent members were honored with special awards this year. Continuing in the spirit of Maya Angelou’s words which we see embodied over and over in what the organization delivers, some of these fabulous achievers share their not-to-be-missed thoughts and advice around what it takes to be successful.

On June 22, 2017, I was afforded the amazing opportunity to be interviewed by KPIX 5’s news anchor Michelle Griego on “Bay Area Focus,” a weekly talk show that highlights the Bay Area’s numerous non-profit organizations, activities and community events. It was an honor to bring emphasis to FWSF in this way and to promote the importance of professional networks, mentors and sponsors; sharing ideas and successes; and being true to yourself to further advance the success of women. Also in the media realm in this issue is an article by Pat Harden of Harden Partners, 'The Mistakes Companies Make in Crisis Communications: Seven Deadly Sins in the Digital Age'—a relevant and timely overview of crisis communications.

Through our events and programs, FWSF continues to provide ample opportunities for networking and leadership enhancement. For example, there was the ‘Master Class – Lessons In Leadership’ event in April, moderated by Immediate Past President Darcy Illg; the ‘Evolution of a Brand and How to Stay Relevant’ event with Helen Russell, Co-Founder and CEO of Equator Coffees & Teas, Inc. in June; our upcoming Diversity engagement and programming led by Diversity Chair Kim Scala; ‘How To Navigate a Wine List and Tasting Tips from the Experts!’ with Emma Mayerson, Founding Executive Director of Alliance for Girls; and our East Bay Coffee gatherings, led by East Bay Co-Chairs Susan Mazzetti and Minako Steel. Be sure to check out our event calendar, as it continues to be updated weekly with high-caliber programing and opportunities for you to get involved!  Upcoming events include ‘Fostering Innovation Through Diversity’ on August 2, 2017; ‘From Bubbles to Boardroom’ on August 9, 2017; and the Financial Woman of the Year luncheon to be held October 6, 2017, honoring Robin Washington, CFO of Gilead Sciences.

We celebrate our 61st anniversary this year! It takes a combination of dedicated people that go above and beyond and a framework within which to work to ensure our continued success. We welcome your ideas to retain and enhance our membership and keep our organization relevant. Thank you for your continued engagement with the FWSF.

Sincerely,

Paige Venable
President
Financial Women of San Francisco