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IWF Northern California Members News
September 2025
July 2025
May 2025
March 2025
February 2025
January 2025
December 2024
October 2024
  With great sorrow we are sharing the news of IWF NorCal member Mary Kay Higgins Crockett's passing on Thursday, October 3rd at her home at Carmel Valley Manor. She was 94 and will be deeply missed. Her obituary is available here. A ceremony of her life will take place on January 11, 2025 at her beloved Church in the Forest, Pebble Beach, CA at 1 pm, followed by a celebration.
August 2024
June 2024
May 2024
March 2024
Women's History Month: IWF is celebrating 50 years of IWF women changing the world. IWF NorCal member Jill Tarter, a highly acclaimed astronomer, and the co-founder of the SETI Institute in California, has spent her career focused on extraterrestrial life, peering through telescopes to the furthest reaches of the cosmos. “From my perspective, we live on a fragile island of life, in a universe of possibilities,” Jill said in a 2009 TED Talk. She pays her knowledge forward by teaching future citizens and scientists about space exploration, and was the inspiration for the main character in the 1997 movie Contact. Listen to Jill's TED Talk here.
February 10, With great sorrow we are sharing the news of IWF NorCal member Marsha Maytum's passing. She was 69, and had been diagnosed with ALS three years ago. Marsha was an award winning architect and was an amazing heart centered individual. She will be missed. Read more. January 2024
November 2023
October 2023
September 2023
August 2023
Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Barbara Adachi who has been appointed as Ascend Pinnacle's New Executive Advisor! Barbara has been an Ascend member for over a decade, is a proven business leader in professional services, and seasoned board member. She is excited to bring her passion and expertise to Ascend and drive impact in the boardroom. July 2023
June 2023
May 2023
May 11, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member and Roots of Peace Founder and CEO Heidi Kühn who was awarded the 2023 World Food Prize for restoring agriculture to de-mined land in former war zones. Read more. In Memoriam
April 2023
March 2023
February 2023
February 9, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Debra Plousha-Moore, whose leadership experience is showcased in this Forbes article "Four Tenets For Fostering Growth On Your Team." Read more. January 2023
October 6, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Karen Derr Gilbert, who has been named to Forbes’ second annual "50 Over 50" list. Karen is partner at FTV Capital and among 50 leading female executives recognized in the “Money” category. The 2022 “50 Over 50” list spotlights 200 dynamic female entrepreneurs and leaders who have achieved significant success, often overcoming formidable odds or barriers. Read more. September 2022
August 2022
August 11, It is with great sorrow that we share the news of beloved IWF NorCal member Jane Bowyer's passing on August 2, 2022. IWF NorCal member Susie Hoganson shares "When Jane joined IWF NorCal in 2002, she participated immediately at the leadership level as well as the activity level. Jane was always ready for fun such as summer camp. Little stopped her and she lived her life with gusto, energy and enthusiasm. The day before she died was filled with love, laughter, food and games with her family. She will be missed." Read the full tribute here.
August 4, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member and Senior Executive Vice President of First Republic Private Wealth Management Susie Cranston, who was named Chief Operating Officer of First Republic Bank, effective September 1, 2022. Read more. July 2022
June 2022
April 2022
February 2022
January 2022
October 2021
October 7, Congratulations to IWF NorCal members Jennifer Bielstein, Ana Pinczuk, Kirby Rattenbury and Melinda Yee Franklin, who are being celebrated as the San Francisco Business Times' 2021 Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business. You are an inspiration to us all! Read more. August 2021
IWF NorCal member Suzie Woodward Morris’ beloved husband Dr. R. Curtis Morris, Jr, Professor Emeritus in the Division of Nephrology of UCSF, passed away on July 9, 2021. He was 89 years old and was recently diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma. Please visit the memorial website honoring Curtis and share your memories and tributes. Read UCSF’s obituary. July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
March 2021
January 2021
 January 4, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Melinda Yee Franklin who will be joining JPMorgan Chase Bank in the newly created role of West region executive for community engagement, based in San Francisco. In her new role, part of Chase's corporate responsibility team, Melinda will work with teams in the West, including California, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Washington state. Read more.
October 2020
October 1, Our beloved IWF NorCal member, and former board member, Jane Bowyer recently lost her husband Stu of over 60 years to COVID-19 (see obituary). Jane has recovered from COVID-19 and is at home. We send our love and condolences. October 15, New York Times article: Stuart Bowyer, Astronomer Who Lent His Ear to the Cosmos, Dies at 86. September 2020
September 3, Congratulations to IWF NorCal President Barbara Adachi who will be an honoree of this year's CEDAW Women's Human Rights Awards for International Comity, which is presented to an individual who advances women's human rights globally. Join us as Barbara receives her award at the upcoming 45 Years of Inspiring an Equal Future: CEDAW Women's Human Rights Awards Virtual Celebration on September 29 at 6:00 pm -- register here. Read more.
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
June 26, IWF NorCal member Min Chen, CEO of Wisy, Inc., is featured in the cover story of Ellas, a popular magazine in Panama by La Prensa Panamá, about her organization’s partnership with SAP SAP.iO, recognition by Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and how Wisy, Inc. is helping business to prepare for the new economy. Read more.
May 2020
Former IWF NorCal member, noted attorney, philanthropist and long-time Atherton resident Margaret Gill passed away on April 17 at age 80. She will be missed. Read obituary.
During these unprecedented times, it is great to hear some encouraging news from IWF NorCal members Van Ton-Quinlivan and Denise Brosseau. Just a few months ago, Van launched Futuro Health as CEO with Denise, who serves as COO. As we prepare for the potential peak and longer term impact of COVID-19, Futuro is offering FREE Pandemic Readiness Training for nurses. Learn more.
February 2020
December 2019
September 2019  September 11, IWF NorCal member Beth Devin, Managing Director, Innovation Network & Emerging Technology, Citi Ventures talks with John Furrier at Mayfield Fund in Menlo Park, CA as a part of the Mayfield People First Network.
The interview is about 20 minutes and focuses on Beth's career as well as the significant change in the last many years driven by technology innovation. Watch video. On S June 2019  June 14, IWF NorCal member Jenny Brandemeuhl’s husband was in a terrible plane crash and is in the hospital in Phoenix with life threatening injuries. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jenny and her family. For details on how to help or send cards, contact our office.
One of our original members, Fran Streets, lost her husband, Cleo, on Saturday, June 1st, after a long illness. His ashes will be placed in Hawaii by close family. We send our deepest sympathy.
May 2019 Congratulations Rachel and Kirsten! Women of Influence!
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The important work of IWF NorCal member and neuroscientist Jennifer Garrison is featured in this WSJ article "Step Aside Longevity Bros. It’s Time for the Longevity Ladies. [Her] study of hormones and ovaries could unlock the key to a longer life for everyone." Read 
May 8, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member 
March 31, Check it out! IWF NorCal member Lara Druyan is featured in a Harvard Business School's Board Diversity Network Newsletter Women on Boards: How Lara Druyan and Ann Lucena Are Shaping the Future of Corporate Leadership. Read 
Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Katarina Bonde who is receiving the IWF Women Who Make a Difference Award, which celebrates the tremendous accomplishments and contributions that IWF members have made to their communities and the world. We look forward to celebrating Katarina's exceptional leadership and accomplishments at the upcoming IWF World Leadership Conference in Seattle. Read 
January 7, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Jeannee Parker Martin, President and CEO of LeadingAge California, who has been appointed to the California Commission on Aging by Governor Newsom. Read 
IWF NorCal member Susan S. Morse was recently inducted into the Olympic Club Hall of Fame for Distinguished Service to the Club. Susan joined the nation’s oldest athletic club in 1994 and quickly became involved in governance, serving (and chairing) several of the committees. In 2005, she became the first woman to serve on the board of directors and was elected president for 2007. She oversaw the 2007 U.S. Amateur Championship and is now involved in regional golf governance.
With great sorrow we are sharing the news of former IWF NorCal member Bobbie Sue Hood, who passed away on August 21, 2024. She will be deeply missed.
October 27, IWF NorCal member and San Francisco physician Linda H. Clever, M.D., received the 2024 California Medical Association (CMA) Gary S. Nye Award for Physician Health and Well-Being. The award honors a physician who has made significant contributions toward improving physician health and wellness. Read 
Congratulations to IWF NorCal member and Cresset President and CEO Susie Cranston who was honored as one of San Francisco Business Times' 
IWF celebrated its 30th anniversary of the Leadership Fellows Program in Washington D.C. IWF NorCal member and former Board President of both IWF and the IWF Leadership Foundation Fran Streets was a featured speaker discussing 30 years of advancing women's leadership with a vision to change the world. 
August 16, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Linda Hawes Clever who received the California Medical Association’s 2024 Gary Nye, MD Award for Physician Health and Well-Being. The award recognizes a physician who has made significant contributions toward improving physician health and wellness. Read 
June 3, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Amy Schioldager who has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Office Depot (ODP). Read 
Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Barbara Adachi who was recognized as one of 
IWF NorCal member Sonita Lontoh was featured by Northwestern Kellogg on her work championing technology for humanity to kick off AAPI Heritage Month. Read 
January 31, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Susie Cranston, who has joined Cresset Asset Management as president and chief operating officer. Susie was formerly Chief Operating Officer at First Republic. Read 
December 14, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Leah Toeniskoetter who has been appointed as president and CEO of the San Jose Chamber of Commerce. She will take on this leadership role effective January 1st. Read 
November 18, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member and Founder and CEO of All Home Tomiqua Moss who has been appointed as California's Secretary of the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency. Read 
Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Heidi Kuhn, founder and CEO of Roots of Peace, who received the world-renowned Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice on September 6th during the celebration of the United Nations International Day of Charity at the United Nations’ Headquarters in New York. Read 
We are deeply saddened to share that after a fierce battle with prostate cancer, John Francis Meillo passed away on January 18. 2023, at home with his family surrounding him. John and his partner, IWF NorCal member Jenny Erwin, had hosted several IWF events in their Pacifica home before moving to Reno in 2018 to be closer to Jenny's son and family. John will be remembered as a skilled technician who could fix anything, a devoted family man, a marathon runner, a volunteer at Spring Training in Arizona and the Vietnam memorial in Washington, DC. His genuine smile, easy going personality and generous spirit endeared to all. 
June 7, Congratulations to IWF NorCal Member Hafize Gaye Erkan, who has been appointed as Turkey's next central bank governor. Gaye was the former CEO at Greystone and co-CEO at First Republic and has had a stellar career in the US corporate world in financial services, banking, investment, risk management, technology and digital innovation. Gaye is the first female governor of the Turkish central bank. Read 
March 30, IWF NorCal member Amy McCombs was the second woman to chair the California Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. The CalChamber is the state's leading business related organization and is highlighting the leadership role women have played over the last years as Chair of the Board. The overview article is available 
March 20, Congratulations to 
March 2, IWF NorCal member and CEO of Futuro Health Van Ton-Quinlivan has been named to the list of the 
January 26, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Valerie Red-Horse Mohl, 
Congratulations to IWF NorCal members Robbee Baker Kosak and Valerie Red-Horse Mohl who were honored as two of the San Francisco Business Times’ Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business at its awards celebration on October 13. We are so proud of them and their work to change the world.
October 10, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Yvette Hollingsworth Clark, who has been appointed as executive vice president and global chief compliance officer at State Street Corporation. Yvette brings financial services expertise and extensive compliance and risk management experience to this global financial services firm. Read 
September, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Telle Whitney 
April 20, IWF NorCal member Maryles Casto, Chairman and CEO of MVC Solutions, shares her views on business travel, Silicon Valley tech titans and the Great Resignation in this interview with The Mercury News. Read 
April 6, Two IWF NorCal members, Barbara Adachi and Kim Box are 2022 NACD Directorship 100 honorees. Congratulations Barbara and Kim! The annual NACD Directorship 100™ celebrates and recognizes the most influential directors and leaders in the corporate governance community who have demonstrated excellence in the boardroom through innovation, courage, and integrity. See the 
January 11, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Susie Medak on her remarkable 32 years at Berkeley Rep! She will be stepping down from Berkeley Rep in August and plans to work as an executive coach when she moves on. She "helped build Berkeley Rep into a major institution: a reliable purveyor of daring, form-breaking art; a draw for artists around the world; and an incubator of the next generation of playwrights, actors and leaders.” – 
November 22, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Jilma L. Meneses, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities, who has accepted a position on Washington State Governor Jay Inlsee’s cabinet. She will lead the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, serving between 2-3 million people annually. Her last day at Catholic Charities will be December 31, 2021. Read 
November 18, 
November 4,
San Francisco Business Times Most Influential
August 6, IWF NorCal member Susan Brennan has been appointed President and CEO of Romeo Power, effective August 16, 2021. 
IWF NorCal member Kit Yarrow passed away on May 21, 2020, but because of the pandemic, her family and friends could not hold a formal memorial until June 2021. On June 12, more than 100 people attended a service at St. Phillip's Episcopal Church in Southport, NC to celebrate Kit's life. Kit's husband Russ shared four eulogies that were delivered in Kit's honor and captured so much of this beautiful woman and "
January 19, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Nuria Fernandez who will be joining the Biden administration to serve in the U.S. Department of Transportation! Nuria, who has led Santa Clara County's Valley Transportation Authority for the past seven years as CEO and general manger said 
October 29, Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Kirsten Wolberg, 
October 26, 
October, IWF NorCal member Jennifer Bielstein, Executive Director of American Conservatory Theater, was named one of the 
Congratulations to IWF NorCal member Heidi Kuhn who will be honored as one of three women whose "Ideas are Remaking the World." Heidi will be presenting on Wednesday, October 21st at the 2020 IWF Virtual World Leadership Conference: 
In Memoriam
September 1, IWF NorCal member Caryn Beck-Dudley became president and CEO of The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in June 2020. Before joining AACSB, she served as the seventh dean of the Leavey School of Business at Santa Clara University, a position she held since 2015. AACSB is 
July 23, it is with great sorrow that we share the news of IWF NorCal member Denise Allen's passing. Denise joined IWF in 2009 and served as Treasurer for the IWF NorCal board until breast cancer forced her to step down. She loved running, hiking and the outdoors. and touched many with her warmth and thoughtful presence. Denise will be remembered for the radiant love she emanated and will be deeply missed.
June 5, IWF NorCal member and Founder and President of TMC Financing Barbara Morrison is featured in San Francisco Business Times' "Small Business, Big Mission 
IWF NorCal member Anne Chermak Dillen has been named to the Board of Directors of the Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation (UCEF), a registered 501(c)(3) whose mission is to to ensure that the Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU), located in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, has the financial resources it needs to educate new generations of young people, form leaders to serve with professional excellence in Ukraine and internationally, and build a Christian foundation for a democratic, prosperous Ukraine. Read 
IWF NorCal member Kit Yarrow passed away on May 21 after a long and brave struggle with ovarian cancer. "In the last months of her life, as friends reached out to thank her for her friendship, many used the same words to describe her -- "light," "bright," "luminescent," "a beacon." Kit was a light; her physical presence has passed, but her light will always be bright in our hearts." We will miss Kit and we offer o
April 13, IWF NorCal member and Roots of Peach CEO and Founder, Heidi Kuhn was featured on ABC7 News to discuss her new book Breaking Ground, which will officially launch on April 28. Watch the interview 
On Sunday March 8, Richard Holm, beloved husband of IWF NorCal member Ellen Snee passed away peacefully at The Peninsula Regent in San Mateo. Richard was the loving father of sons Eric and Steven, their wives Suzanne and Cheryl, and his grandchildren Grant and Amanda. Our deepest sympathies to Ellen and her family. Read 
February 5, IWF NorCal member and founder and CEO of The RealReal Julie Wainwright is featured in a WSJ Magazine article titled "How the Failure of Pets.com Spurred Julie Wainwright’s RealReal Success." Read 
December 6, IWF NorCal member Julie Castro Abrams is featured as a Queenmaker in San Francisco Magazine's latest issue titled: "Meet the Bay Area's Pivotal Power Brokers: The Queen-makers." Read 
IWF NorCal member Rachel Perkel 
2019 Most Influential Women in Business Congratulations to IWF NorCal members Kathryn Beiser, Beth Devin, Sandra Floyd and Rhonda Morris, who are being celebrated as the 
n addition, IWF NorCal member Carla Boragno of |
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Congratulations Amy Schioldager!American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) announced that it’s Board of Directors has nominated IWF NorCal member Amy L. Schioldager, former Senior Manager Director and Head of Beta Strategies at BlackRock, for election at AIG’s 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. See press release.
February 2019
Congratulations Ana Pinczuk! On February 1, Anaplan announced that IWF NorCal member Ana Pinczuk has joined them as SVP and Chief Transformation Officer. "Ana is an outstanding business and reputable thought leader. She has deep expertise related to transformation, product innovation and hyper-growth trajectory, and I am excited to welcome her to our executive leadership team," said Frank Calderoni, chief executive officer, Anaplan. See press release.
January 2019
IWF NorCal member Priscilla Partridge de Garcia passed away at her residence in Clarinda, Iowa on January 15. She was 76. Priscilla was a multi-faceted renaissance woman who channeled her creative energy in many ways including as an artist, clinical psychologist, media personality, teacher, management consultant, fund-raiser and community leader. She will be missed. Learn more.
Former IWF NorCal and NY member Sylvia Chase passed away on January 3 after a short illness. She was 80. Sylvia was a KRON news anchor and award-winning TV journalist. She was an active member of the IWF NorCal Marin/North Bay Book Club and was beloved by many members. She will be missed. Read more. NY Times obituary and tribute.
Congratulations Belva Davis!On December 4th, 2018, IWF NorCal member and pioneer journalist Belva Davis was inducted into the California Hall of Fame. The 12th Annual California Hall of Fame event was hosted by Honorary Chairs Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr., and First Lady Anne Brown. Tune in!
August 2018
Remembering Madeline Mixer, By Jenny Erwin
Madeline was a powerful force in spite of her petite frame and soft-spoken demeanor. She cared passionately about women’s issues and worked tirelessly to improve workplace opportunities. She was one of the first Women’s Bureau Regional Administrations and served women in California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii and Guam. I had met her while working on women’s education and employment issues in Arizona and was grateful for her support as I made the transition to her former position. Actually, I never felt like I replaced Madeline at the Women’s Bureau….no one could replace Madeline. Instead, I felt I helped move her legacy and groundbreaking work forward. She knew the value of IWF with its wide network of accomplished and influential women and wanted me to know these women as well. I am so grateful that she sponsored me for membership and the opportunity to belong to this group. Those of us who knew her will miss her courage, persistence and lifelong efforts to support working women, especially women in the trades. She truly made a visible difference for them and for me. More from the Equal Rights Advocates and SF Chronicle.
July 2018
Cathy Benko appointed to Nike's Board of Directors
June 2018
2018 Most Influential Women in Business
The San Francisco Business Times will be honoring over 100 Most Influential Women in Business on June 5, 2018. IWF NorCal congratulates these distinguished women for this recognition – we have 2 members who are being honored with the Inspire Award, 3 members who are being honored as the 2018 Most Influential Women, and 44 past recipients who are now Forever Influential.
2018 Inspire Awards
Congratulations to IWF NorCal members Paula Collins and Mary Cranston who are being honored with the San Francisco Business Times Inspire Awards! The Inspire Awards recognize women who have achieved the highest leadership roles, and the 2018 recipients are three extraordinary women on corporate boards. In their respective interviews, Paula and Mary speak about the need for more diversity on boards and the importance of being able to persuade others to be an effective board member. They also highlight that networking and mentoring are key components to continue efforts to help improve the number of women on boards.
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Paula Collins |
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Mary Cranston
2018 Most Influential Women in Business
 Janet Lamkin President California, United Airlines |
 Katharine Martin Partner, Chair of the Board Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati |
 Kirsten WolbergChief Technology and Operations Officer Docusign |
2018 Forever Influential
| Barbara Adachi | Colleen Cervantes | Yvette Hollingsworth Clark | Constance Moore | Amy Schioldager |
| Katherine August de-Wilde | Paula Collins |
Ellen Kahn | Barbara Morrison |
Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz |
| Eunice Azzani |
Mary Cranston |
Kim Laughton | Whitney Mortimer |
Lynn Sedway |
| Michelle Banks |
Lauren Doliva |
Valerie Lewis |
Shirley Nelson |
Dianne Snedaker |
| Lydia Beebe |
Loretta Doon |
Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann |
Mary O’Hara | Laura Stein |
| Cathy Benko |
Pamela Duffy |
Mary Marcy |
Mary Pittman |
Joan Tucker Fife |
| Carla Boragno |
Mary Francis |
Deborah Messemer |
Janet Reilly |
Janet Widmann |
| Teresa Briggs |
Linda Havard |
Nanette Lee Miller |
Ellen Richey |
Kit Yarrow |
| Barbara Carbone |
Elizabeth Hillman |
Anna Mok |
Eva Sage-Gavin |
Valerie Red-Horse Mohl named ED of IC-SVN
Valerie Red-Horse Mohl has been appointed the new Executive Director of Investors’ Circle-Social Venture Network, effective June 25, 2018. IC-SVN builds and serves communities of inspired and informed impact investors and business leaders to make social, economic, and environmental change. Congratulations Valerie!
Read more.
May 2018
Wendy York-Fess named Dean of Clemson University's College of Business
On May 24, Clemson University announced that IWF NorCal member Wendy York-Fess has been named dean of its College of Business. She will begin her new job in mid-July. Wendy will remain a member of IWF NorCal. Read press release.
Lisbeth McNabb joins the Linux Foundation as CFO and COO
The Linux Foundation announced on May 14 that IWF NorCal member Lisbeth McNabb is joining the organization as their Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Lisbeth will manage the finance and operations teams at the Linux Foundation, which builds and advances open technology. Read press release.
April 2018
Congratulations to Bari Havlik for her new role as EVP, Member Supervision at FINRA
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has named IWF member Bari Havlik as Executive Vice President for Member Supervision. Starting April 30, Bari will be responsible principally for leading FINRA's Member Regulation program, which includes surveillance and examination programs for member firms. Bari will remain a member of IWF NorCal. See press release.
Diane Winokur honored as a tireless patient advocate
On Tuesday, April 17, the Foundation Fighting Blindness honored IWF member Diane Winokur at its Annual San Francisco Dinner, Visions for the Future. She has been an active leader nationally and internationally in science and biotechnology, with a keen grasp of the public-private partnership that drives innovation and discovery in the ALS community and beyond. She was honored for the inspiration she gives to this community. See more.
March 2018
Congrats IWF member and Rise Up Founder Denise Dunning
Rise Up announced a new partnership with and $6 million investment from Cummins Inc. The initiative will expand Rise Up’s global reach in enabling girls and women to transform their own lives, communities, and countries through advocacy and policy change. Watch video of Denise's keynote speech.
IWF member Mary Huss has been named Bay Area market 
president and publisher of the Silicon Valley Business Journal and the San Francisco Business Times, expanding her responsibilities to lead the two Bay Area media properties owned by American City Business Journals. See press release.
IWF member, Charlan Nemeth's book "In Defense of Troublemakers: the Power of Dissent in Life and Business" argues that our thinking that consensus is good can be completely wrong. She states that people will make better decisions by embracing dissent. As part of her book, Charlan interviewed and featured six IWF NorCal members. Learn more.
February 2018
Members Leading Collective Impact Partners (CIP) initiative
IWF members Denise Dunning, Founder and Executive Director of Rise Up, Mary Pittman, President of the Public Health Institute, and Musimbi Kanyoro, President and CEO of the Global Fund for Women are jointly leading CIP: Women’s and Girl’s Economic Empowerment Advocacy in India to increase the economic power of women and girls in India through a collective impact model. Their efforts will be supported by a $2.1 million grant from The Gates Foundation. See press release.
By Cindy Eisenberg and Christa Gannon
Christa is an IWF NorCal Member, lawyer, and Founder and CEO of Fresh Lifelines for Youth (FLY). She led a discussion about our juvenile justice system, issues affecting our youth, and the impact it has on our economic and social health as a community and country. Nearly 20 years ago as a Stanford Law Student, Christa founded FLY after working with incarcerated youth, who fervently believed other youth could be prevented from their fate AND they wanted to help led the way. Today their ideas are the foundation of FLY’s services that reach youth in three Bay Area Counties (San Jose, San Mateo, and Alameda) and 23 cities. FLY specializes in helping kids who are in the criminal justice system and those who are at risk of entering the system. FLY’s innovative and award-winning approach helps our must vulnerable youth change the trajectory of their lives. Systemic, racial justice, and policy reforms are also critical components of FLY’s success. Christa helped us explore the juvenile justice system, adolescent brain development, and local reform efforts and promising solutions for crime and kids.
On a clear, warm autumn day, fourteen of our ladies got "admitted" to the Stanford Graduate School of Business for a few hours. We started the morning by touring the beautiful facilities where lucky students learn and live. We marveled at the brand new student residential space designed by world-renowned architect, Ricardo Legoretta. The highlight of the day was the case study session with the ever-entertaining GSB tenured faculty, Charles O’Reilly. After the class, we had lunch at the amazing student cafe where we enjoyed great food and discussion with our fellow IWF "classmates".
The interactive lecture led by Professor O’Reilly dealt with the importance of culture in driving organizational excellence. He made the case for the supremacy of culture over strategy and other management practices, summarizing with "Culture eats strategy for breakfast!" Many of us came away feeling we had learned things applicable to our own organizations.
Linda Moriarty kindly described her take on the morning event. “I was excited to attend “grad school for the day”, but this we so much better than I imagined. The process of reading the case study in preparation set the stage. Then Charles O’Reilly’s presentation was just superb! On top of that, being an architect, I was so glad to experience the Legorreta project as well as see the redesign of classrooms for greater flexibility.”
All participants graduated with Honors!
Legacy Foundation Celebration Event - Past, Present, and Future
October 11, 2017
By Barbara Adachi
On October 11, 2017 the IWF NorCal Legacy Foundation held its inaugural Celebration Event to honor the Past, Present and Future. The event was held at the Orrick headquarters in San Francisco, with Orrick also donating the wine, beverages and table arrangements. Starting with a reception and silent auction, we had over 55 guests attending including representatives from Year Up and Girl Scouts of Northern California, our two Legacy partners. It was a fantastic evening focused on raising awareness of the Legacy Foundation and to recognize the donors and leaders who have built this great organization.
We were delighted to have many of our Legacy past Presidents present including Diane Winokur, our first President, Eva Auchincloss, Marianne Briscoe, Van Ton-Quinlivan and Sue Sprunk. A special recognition was given to Sue Sprunk and Barbara Creed for their leadership in creating the Legacy Foundation Partnership Project.
One of the highlights of the evening was the panel discussion featuring two outstanding young women leaders: Angelica Pineda from Year Up and Jasmine Abude from Girl Scouts of Northern California. With excellent questions from our moderator, Jan Yanehiro, we found their personal stories to be both impressive and inspiring. It was wonderful to hear about their personal journeys and how their two organizations have shaped their lives and the impact of Year Up and Girl Scouts. For the Legacy Foundation, it was heartwarming to hear how our contributions are having an impact on their lives and their future.
The Legacy Foundation also celebrated and thanked the many donors who have supported the Foundation through the years through giving of their time, talent and treasure. As outlined in the Legacy Foundation Annual Report we have over 70 donors who have contributed in the last three years and 35 who have contributed in multiple years.
In looking forward, Barbara Adachi shared that the Board is focused on three distinct strategic tenets: Leadership, Impact and Connectivity. For 2018, the Legacy Foundation will be reinvesting in our two current partners, Year Up and Girl Scouts of Northern California for 2018. During 2018, the Legacy Foundation Board will be reviewing and solidifying the selection criteria for a new partner for 2019 as Year Up will be completing its third year.
On behalf of the Legacy Foundation Board, we want to thank all of the attendees who came to celebrate the past, present and future. Thank you to our leaders and donors who have made the Legacy Foundation what it is today…the future is bright and we look forward to greater connectivity with our IWF Northern California members.
Enjoy more pictures from the event on the IWF Flickr account.
Prioritizing Breast Cancer Prevention: The Theory of Change
November 2, 2017
By Ellen Kahn
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An intimate group shared a beautiful dinner and an informative talk about the impact of the environment - in particular cleaning products and body care products - on the incidence of breast cancer. On November 2nd, Ellen Kahn hosted IWF members and guests at the law offices of Sideman & Bancroft at Embarcadero One. We marveled at the beautiful nighttime view of Coit Tower and the North Bay while enjoying wine and refreshments.
Jeanne Rizzo, RN and CEO of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP) presented a compelling and passionate overview of the work she and her team have been doing. BCPP has been instrumental in driving research and Jeanne shared highlights of their recent report "State of the evidence 2017: an update on the connection between breast cancer and the environment". The organization also works hard to encourage legislation to make products safer and most recently celebrated the signing into law of California SB 258, The Cleaning Product Right to Know Act of 2017 . Jeanne encourages us all to carefully read labels and keep it simple, the fewer ingredients with fewer chemicals and fragrances the better. IWF members are encouraged to look at the important work of BCPP; check out the website www.bcpp.org.
A Morning at ABC News
November 8, 2017
By Cindy Kasabian
On Wednesday, November 8, nearly 30 IWF members spent the morning getting a behind-the-scenes look at the taping of the 11am ABC 7 Newscast hosted by anchorman Reggie Aqui and meteorologist Mike Nicco, both of whom spent lots of time after the show answering questions and taking photos.
We then gathered for lunch where we had a question and answer session with vice president of news, Tracey Watkowski, who talked at length about the challenges of television news coverage in the internet age. She also provided interesting insights into how ABC 7 covered the recent fires. This was followed by a truly remarkable panel moderated by our host for the day, Cheryl Jennings, with Jan Yanehiro and Thuy Vu. Topics ranged from how the news business has changed over the past three decades, to sexual harassment in the workplace and all of the recent coverage that topic has had. Panelists candidly shared their unique experiences and answered questions from our group for more than an hour. Such a great day of shared insights and expertise!
October 2017
A Closer Look at Giving at California State University Monterey Bay
Mary Kay Crockett, Manor resident and former Manor Board member, was honored by the Women's Leadership Council of California State University Monterey Bay during a luncheon at Corral de Tierra Country Club last Month. Known as a mentor to generations, a stalwart volunteer, a gracious and fearless leader and passionate supporter of educational opportunities for re-entry students, Mary Kay was presented the Inaugural Woman of Distinction Award by CSUMB.
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The Book Passage Corte Madera will host a book talk on Saturday, October 21 at 4PM with IWF NorCal member, Paola Gianturco. Paola will present slides and stories from her new book, Wonder Girls: Changing Our World. The book is the first to document groups of activist girls around the world, all ranging in age from 10 to 18. From Malawi to Mexico, Kyrgyzstan to Tonga, the girls are tackling problems as diverse as child marriage, education, the environment and equality —and they are succeeding. IWF NorCal member and Book Passage owner, Elaine Petrocelli, will reserve seats for IWF members. Just let her know at elaine@bookpassage.com and your seat will be waiting for you! |
September 2017
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A look back at Jill Tarter's 2009 TED Talk, Join the Seti Search You can read more about astronomer, Jill Tarter, and her research with the SETI into sentient life in the cosmos. As well, you can listen to her TED Ed talk called, "Calculating the Odds of Intelligent Alien Life." |
Jill Tarter's TED Talk poster—a portrayal of Jill as super hero, Wonder Woman!
May 2017
Thuy Vu, host of "KQED Newsroom," was chosen as on of the 30 most inspirational women during Women's History Month by the San Jose Mercury News and the East Bay Times.
Eleanor Chang was profiled in an episode of "KQED Newsroom" on her participation in the Women's March in DC and what made her decide to become politically active for the first time at 60 years old. She was interviewed by fellow IWF member Thuy Vu, the host of "KQED Newsroom." The interview was aired on Friday, April 28 at 7pm on Channel 9 as part of the program's one-hour special on the first 100 days of the Trump administration.
March & April 2017
Paola Gianturco Named to the 2017 Marin Women's Hall of Fame
IWF NorCal member, Paola Gianturco, will be one of five women leaders inducted during the Marin Women's Hall of Fame 30th annual ceremony. The Marin Women’s Hall of Fame is a project of the YWCA of San Francisco and Marin.
Paola, who was named in the arts category, is an author and photographer whose books document women and girls around the world who are working to solve problems such as disease and injustice.
Hannah Kain Named 2017 Supply Chain Pros to Know by Supply & Demand Chain Executive
Hannah Kain, ALOM President and CEO, has been recognized by Supply & Demand Chain Executive for her industry leadership and expertise by being named a 2017 Supply Chain Pro to Know. This the third consecutive year Hannah has received this honor. The Pro to Know Award recognizes supply chain executives who are leading initiatives to prepare their own company and their clients’ supply chains for the significant challenges of today's business climate.
Cynthia Eisenberg Joins Golden Gate University’s Board of Trustees
Cindy Eisenberg, IWF- Northern California member since 2005, was elected to Golden Gate University’s Board of Trustees on February 22, 2017. Cindy is particularly honored by this invitation, given Golden Gate University’s Illustrious 116 year history in San Francisco and its recent ranking as the nation’s #1 Four Year College for Adult Learners by Washington Monthly. Cindy will serve on the board’s enrollment and audit committees.
A Golden Gate University alumna herself, Cindy’s fondness and appreciation for Golden Gate University began while earning her Master’s degree in Taxation. She was recognized as Aluma of the Year for the School of Taxation.
After receiving her Master’s degree, Cindy went on to join Arthur Andersen where she had a long and rewarding career, becoming one of the first women at Arthur Andersen to achieve partnership. Cindy attributes much of her success to the foundation she built while at Golden Gate University.
Ana Pinczuk named one of Fortune's Top 50 Most Powerful Latinas of 2017
The 50 Most Powerful Latinas are executives running Fortune 500 companies, large private firms, and a few impressive entrepreneurs leading global companies. The four-criteria used were: the size and importance of the woman's business in the global economy, the health and direction of the business, the arc of the woman's career—résumé and runway ahead—and their social and cultural influence.
Ana Pinczuk brings more than 30+years of experience in engineering, sales and IT to her role at HPE.
Prior to joining the company, Pinczuk was EVP and Chief Product Officer at Veritas, where she was responsible for numerous departments. Earlier, she spent 15 years at Cisco and held a number of senior roles, including SVP of Sales, Services COO and Transformation leader—where she led the transformation of Cisco’s Global Technical Center.
The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem
On October 22, 2016, Susan Cook Hoganson, was invested at Trinity Church, in New York City as a member of The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem. This appointment was approved by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Sovereign Head of the Order, and His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester, the Grand Prior in July.
The Order of St. John is a chivalric order of the British Crown with roots beginning in the 11th Century. Members have included Florence Nightingale, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela and King Hussein of Jordan. Its mission is to prevent and relieve sickness and injury, and to act to enhance the health and well-being of people all over the world regardless of race, creed, or ability to pay.
Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects (LMSA) is a small San Francisco-based architecture firm that defines its mission as “design with purpose.”
The AIA Architecture Firm Award, given annually, is the highest honor the AIA bestows on an architecture firm and recognizes a practice that consistently has produced distinguished architecture for at least 10 years. Over the course of three decades, LMSA has developed an impressive portfolio of highly influential work that advances issues of social consciousness and environmental responsibility and will be honored at the 2017 AIA National Convention in Orlando.
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IWF NorCal member, Kit Yarrow, will be writing a new column for Money Magazine twice monthly. Her first column is "The Science of Why We Buy Clothes We Never Wear." Contact Kit directly to congratulate her or to learn more about her ongoing column at kyarrow@gmail.com.
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Kit Yarrow writes a new column for Money Magazine called "The Science of Why We...."September 2016 Bar Association Considers Striking 'Honeys' From the Courtroom Former executive director of the San Francisco Bar Association, former dean of the Golden Gate School of Law in San Francisco and IWF NorCal Member, Drucilla Ramey was featured in a recent NY Times article describing the efforts of a a group of 5,200 women to add to the American Bar Association's model rules of professional conduct an amendment to prohibit harassment and discrimination by lawyers in the course of practicing law.
August 2016
June 2016  Marybeth Bond was a pioneer in women’s travel long before books like “Eat, Pray, Love” made the concept popular. Since 1983 she has offered advice to other women as an author, speaker and founder of the travel blog GutsyTraveler.com.  2016 Life-time of Achievement recipient Judy Koch, is 'Bringing high-quality books to all children' As one of the recipients of the 2016 Lifetimes of Achievement award, Judy has taken some surprising turns in her life. She is the founder of Bring Me A Book Foundation which provides books for underserved children ages 0 to 8. The Foundation has given books to more than 1 million California children and families at 3,000 sites, including low-income preschools, child-care centers, homeless shelters, parks and libraries. In Santa Clara and San Mateo counties alone, the group has placed small libraries in more than 1,500 classrooms.
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The political economy of Donald Trump was the focus of a spirited discussion recently by leading experts in London, Washington and San Francisco. Marsha Vande Berg weighed in on the probability of new spending by government should either Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton or her GOP opponent be elected in November but that the corresponding hike in the deficit will be trillions higher under Trump. 
Why is America Waking up to Racism & How do we "Stay Woke"?
April 2016
NARAL Pro-Choice America Honored Dr. Nancy Milliken at the 21st Power of Choice Luncheon
Dr. Nancy Milliken was honored at the 2016 NARAL Luncheon for her tremendous contributions to "Choice." She is the Founder and Director of UCSF National Center of Excellence in Women's Health, considered one of the top centers in the country.
Ellen Richey, talks about what inspires her work space and how the natural wonders of the San Francisco Bay help connect her to Visa's global financial system. 
The merger of The United Way of the Bay Area and the United Way of Silicon Valley will now represent counties of San Francisco, Marin, Alameda, Napa, Contra Costa, San Mateo, Solano and Santa Clara - all with diverse communities. Anne talked about the major benefits of the merger to the SF Business Times, "The number of people in need in the Bay Area is shockingly high - one in four of us lives in poverty. Both of our United Way organizations have great strategies and programs that are truly improving lives. By working together, we can expand this success to benefit the entire region."
February/March 2016
Tech CU Announces CEO Succession Plan: Barbara Kamm retiring as President and CEO after serving in the role for over 6 years
Tech CU (Technology Credit Union) announced that Barbara Kamm, the company's President and Chief Executive Officer, will retire in May 2016. Barbara will remain on the Board of Directors and continue to be active in the local business community. Barbara's outstanding leadership and direction of the credit union over the past six years has helped restore the company to profitability, grew their retail loan portfolio, built a strong management team, introduced a full range of commercial loans and added Wealth Management to the company's portfolio of products.
Kirsten Wolberg to join SGI Board of Directors
SGI, a global leader in high performance solutions for computers, data analytics, and data management, appointed Kirsten Wolberg as member of the Board of Directors. Kirsten currently serves as Vice President, Talent for PayPal, directing the talent acquisition, performance and learning teams. For the past year, she held the role as Separation Executive for PayPal leading the PayPal separation program as part of the eBay/PayPal tax-free split. Prior to leading this strategic effort for PayPal, she was responsible for the chief operating functions for PayPal Technology.
January 2016
"Believe It or Not: The Challenges Facing One Professional Woman a Half Century Ago"
Long-standing IWF NorCal member, Nina Gruen has released her book, Believe It or Not: The Challenges Facing One Professional Woman a Half Century Ago, a recollection of the challenges she faced establishing a professional career during the 1960s and 1970s, when societal—and her family’s—expectations discouraged women, particularly mothers, from full participation in the workforce and business related organizations.
An excerpt from Nina's book, "Why Women Need a Sense of Humor when Crashing an All-Male Organization" was recently published in Urban Land magazine. Share in Nina's inspiring journey as an early feminist, mentor, and leader in her field as she recounts her experiences upon joining ULI in 1971 as one of its first female members. She became the Institute’s first female trustee in 1982.
Dr. Dawn Gross will be hosting Dying To Talk, a new radio show on 91.7 KALW
Dying To Talk is a special series on transforming the taboo around death.
Beginning in 2016, two new laws come into effect that can dramatically impact how Californians choose to control their medical care through their final exhale. The “End of Life Option Act” (aka “Right to Die”) becomes accessible for many, though not all people with terminal illness. And, thanks to a new Medicare ruling, healthcare providers will now be encouraged (and reimbursed) to sit down with all of their patients to develop an Advanced Care Plan every year, throughout the year.
Dawn Gross, MD, PhD has been caring for people with life-threatening illnesses for over a decade. Dr. Dawn is committed to revolutionizing the way we talk about -- and prepare for – death. On her four-part KALW series Dying To Talk, she and her guests will create a safe space for callers to engage and transform the experience of end-of-life conversations from dread to discovery.
“Until Death It Is All Life” - Knowing that we are mortal is different than knowing that we will die. Explore the opportunities that arise for ourselves and those we love when we face death head on with a healthcare advocate at our side. January 14 at 7pm.
The Machinery of Medicine - As life-saving medical treatments continue to advance, many potential pitfalls await us as we become frail or terminally-ill. Get answers to your questions from frontline emergency medical and critical care providers. February 11 at 7pm.
Caregiving - Feeling lost, overwhelmed and invisible are just some of the emotions many caregivers encounter. Share in a conversation with guests intimately familiar with caring for a dying loved one – and discover how, even as we face great loss, something magical becomes possible. March 10 at 7pm.
What Do You Wish? - “If I had a magic wand, what would you wish for?” Share your successes, challenges and fears in having Advanced Care Planning conversations. April 14 at 7pm.
Newly elected Vice-Chair of the NARAL ProChoice Foundation
Carol Mayer Marshall was recently elected Vice-Chair of the NARAL ProChoice Foundation, a national organization based in Washington, DC. NARAL is the political arm of the ProChoice movement.
Its mission is to, "Support and protect, as a fundamental right and value, a woman’s freedom to make personal decisions regarding the full range of reproductive choices through education, training, organizing, legal action and public policy.”
Linda Graebner appointed Independent Director of C. Mondavi & Family
C. Mondavi & Family, a 72-year-old family-owned wine company, has made significant changes to its Fiduciary Board of Directors.
Linda Graebner is a new independent director. She is an entrepreneur and CEO who has led and grown multiple consumer products companies. Additionally, she has served on boards of directors for food, beverage, personal care and household products companies. Graebner brings deep experience overseeing marketing divisions for large consumer products companies, including Dole Food Company and Crown Zellerbach.
10 Power Women Brands
IWF NorCal Member, Musimbi Kanyoro was named along side such trailblazers as Chelsea Clinton, Sheryl Sandberg, and Malala Yousafzai in a Forbes article highlighting women whose brands keep trending.
2015 CEDAW Womens' Human Rights Award
The Friends of the Commission on the Staus of Women honors individuals and organizations who embody the principles of the United Nations Articles of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The International Comity Award will be presented to Dr. Musimbi Kanyoro for advancing women's human rights globally.
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Dr. Musimbi Kanyoro is President and CEO of Global Fund for Women, the world’s largest public foundation focused exclusively on women and girls rights and gender equality. With its focus on zero violence, economic and political empowerment and sexual and reproductive health and rights, Global Fund for Women has supported more than 5,000 women’s rights organizations, including small groups in hard-to-access places serving highly marginalized populations. These organizations have helped end civil wars, get female Presidents elected, secure new laws and create new financial and economic institutions. Since becoming CEO/President, Global Fund for Women surpassed the $100 million mark in grantmaking. Dr. Kanyoro’s devotion to women, girls and minority groups’ health and human rights, and social change philanthropy has been a life-long passion and vocation. As Director of the Population Program at the Packard Foundation, Dr. Kanyoro spearheaded efforts to include girl’s education and women's leadership in Packard’s grantmaking. She was the first non-white woman to be appointed as general secretary of the World YWCA in Geneva, Switzerland. The World YWCA became the go-to organization for young women under Dr. Kanyoro’s leadership; increasing membership, reopening work in China and Eastern Europe, Ethiopia and other former Socialist/Communist countries where civil society organizations had been abolished. She also led successful initiatives that brought the 150-year old institution into the 21 century including the introduction and use of communication technology, ensuring the representation of women under 30 on local, national and global boards; and diversifying the funding stream of the movement. A true global citizen, Dr. Kanyoro has traveled and lived extensively in Africa, and Europe. She is a sought after speaker and thought leader for media, government, advocacy and NGOs. Dr. Kanyoro serves on several International Boards and working groups including the Aspen Leaders Council, the UN High level Taskforce for Reproductive Health and the boards of CARE and UN Women Civil Society Advisory Board. Dr. Kanyoro received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nairobi, a Ph.D. in Linguistics from the University of Texas, Austin and a Doctorate in Feminist Theology from the San Francisco Theological Seminary. Her many honors include a leadership award from the Kenya Government and being named one of the 21 Women Leaders for the 21st century by Women’s E-News. |
July 2015
The Error in ‘There’s Nothing More We Can Do’
Dawn Gross, a Hospice and Palliative Care Physician is at work on a book about end-of-life care. Read Dawn's OpEd in a July New York Times article about the important questions involved in transitioning a patient to hospice and palliative care.
Election of Vice-President to Serve the House of Bishops of the Episcopal Church
Mary Gray-Reeves, Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of El Camino Real (a region with 45 Episcopal congregations, as well as schools and institutions stretching from Palo Alto to Arroyo Grande), was elected as one of two Vice-Presidents to serve the House of Bishops of The Episcopal Church. In this role Mary will assist Presiding Bishop Elect Michael Curry (the first African-American to serve in this role) as he convenes the denomination, supports bishops and dioceses as well as serve as global leader in the Anglican Communion. The Episcopal Church is the Anglican presence in the United States as well as 15 other countries. The Anglican Communion has approximately 70 million members. Of approximately 1,000 bishops worldwide there are currently 33 women.
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| May 2015 |
A Prime Women Interview with Elaine Petrocelli |
Besides writing books they all turned to Elaine Petrocelli, the Founder and President of Book Passage stores in San Francisco and Corte Madera, CA to help sell their publications. Elaine will be the subject of this and next weeks’ Prime Women interviews.
You can read the full interview at Primewomen.com
April 2015
Sandra Floyd has been added to the Board of Directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area. Last fall, Member Kirsten Wolberg asked IWF NorCal to inform members of this search. Sandra expressed interest and after a rigorous interview process was asked to join this impressive Board.
The Founders' Award Winners 2015
Congratulations to members Cissie Swig and Toni Rembe who will be the recipients of The Founders' Award for Transforming Lives and Community1. The Founders’ Award is bestowed annually on one or more people who have made a profound impact on the lives of San Franciscans and beyond, and who continue to do so well into their older years. This honor will be presented at a Luncheon, moderated by member Belva Davis, on May 8 at the Four Seasons Hotel, San Francisco. For more information about this luncheon click here or email member Eva Auchincloss.
1San Francisco Village is a nonprofit membership organization that empowers older adults to continue living in the homes and neighborhoods they love. SF Village provides community, support and services to help them remain independent, connected and fully engaged.
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Barbara Creed elected Chair of Board of Trustees of The Church Pension Fund |
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