President’s Letter: Reflecting on a Dynamic Summer & Looking Ahead
Dear WWPR Community,
As summer winds down, I’m filled with deep gratitude for the incredible moments we've shared and the inspiring events still to come. From rooftop panels to trail meetups and sold-out signature events, it’s been a season of connection, celebration, and growth… and there is so much more to come.
A Summer to Remember
✨ Emerging Leaders Awards
Our 15th Annual Emerging Leaders Awards was an unforgettable night. I’m still in awe of our phenomenal nominees and winners, and I’ll never forget hearing Kathy Baird’s powerful keynote alongside Lauren Lawson-Zilai, the original founder of the ELAs. It was a full-circle moment that reminded us why we lift up the next generation of leaders.
✨ Summer Events That Sparked Connection
- How PR Pros Took the Leap to Start Their Own Shops
- Executive Communicator Series Dinner made possible by our friends at MiQ
- Summer Social & Coffee Meetup
- Media Roundtable with Kirstin Garriss & Nana-Séntuo Bonsu
- Roosevelt Island Hike (still bummed I missed this one!)
Every event this summer had its own magic. Whether you were able to join us in person or virtually, thank you for being part of this dynamic community.
What’s Next: Fall Highlights
🌟 Woman of the Year – October 3 at Salamander DC
Nominations are closing soon for our most prestigious honor. This annual tradition recognizes exceptional women shaping the future of communications through leadership, innovation, and impact. This year’s celebration will feature Emmy Award–winning journalist and motivational speaker Ellen Bryan as our keynote. I can’t wait to come together for what promises to be a beautiful and inspiring afternoon.
🔗 Nominate Now
🙌 Now Accepting Applications for Our 2026–2027 Pro Bono Client
Is your nonprofit, or one you admire, ready for a strategic comms partnership? We’re looking for our next two-year pro bono client. Applications close in the coming weeks.
🔗 Apply Here
⚡ Fall Programming Sneak Peek
We’ve got an exciting lineup for the months ahead:
- Speed Mentoring – Next week!
- Crisis Communications Workshop
- Communicating Science in a Skeptical Environment
- Influencer Strategy Panel
- More virtual PD events and another Executive Communicators Dinner
Plus, don’t forget—WWPR LINK: A Peer Mentoring Network kicks off next month! Group announcements go out soon, and we’re so excited to launch this pilot with 8 groups across the region.
This summer reminded me of the magic that happens when passionate, driven women come together in community. Thank you for your energy, your engagement, and your belief in what we’re building together. I can’t wait to see what fall brings!
With gratitude,
Colleen Lerro Gallagher
WWPR President
