President’s Note: 2026 Is Already in Full Swing
Dear WWPR Members,
It is hard to believe that I took the reins from Past President Colleen Gallagher just 40 days ago. In that short time, the organization has already accomplished so much, with even more ahead.
First, if we have not yet met, my name is Charmaine Riley, and I am honored to serve as the 2026 WWPR president. I am proud to have spent several years on the WWPR Board as Emerging Leaders co-chair and to have served as vice president in 2025. As I step into this role, I am building on the strong legacy of WWPR leaders who came before me while charting a path that meets women in communications where they are in 2026.
Here are a few highlights so far.
2026 WWPR Board and Advisory Council Induction
Earlier this year, we inducted the 2026 Board and Advisory Council. Both are exceptional groups of women with deep experience across sectors that help WWPR best serve our members.
I am pleased to welcome Bridgette Dodge as treasurer, Julie McDowell as operations chair, Tisa Sinclair as secretary and Vanessa French as vice president to the WWPR Executive Board. You can view the full list of new and returning board members here.
For the 2026–2028 Advisory Council, WWPR is proud to welcome an outstanding group of communications professionals. Led by women who exemplify empowerment, industry leadership and long-standing support for WWPR, the council will play a key role in strengthening our long-term vision and impact. Members include:
- Debbi Jarvis, president and CEO, The Debbi Jarvis Group
- Lauren Tyler, chief of staff and communications strategist
- Nell Callahan, founder, Frontwood Strategies
- Sukhi Sahni, communications senior advisor and educator
- Tina Anthony, founder, Iris Strategies
2026 Annual Meeting
On Jan. 21, WWPR kicked off our 46th Annual Meeting at The Hamilton. It was an incredible showing of members and leaders past and present, including former presidents and board members Colleen Gallagher, Susan Matthews Apgood, Avelyn Austin, Kendra Kojcsich, Lauren Lawson-Zilai and Kate Perrin.
I also had the honor of hosting a fireside chat with D.C. powerhouse Erica Loewe. We discussed what it takes to succeed in today’s communications landscape, how women can advocate for themselves and more. You can read the recap here.
One Party
For the first time in years, WWPR partnered with AMADC, AAF, PRSA and IABC to bring together communicators and creatives from across the region for a celebration of our industries. Hundreds of professionals joined us for a night of connection, networking and island vibes.
New Pro Bono Client: Community Bridges
WWPR is thrilled to announce Community Bridges as our pro bono client for 2026-2027. After reviewing 34 applications from exceptional organizations across the DMV area, Community Bridges stood out for its transformational impact, strategic readiness, and powerful untold stories.
Our Pro Bono Chairs and Committee also recently launched a new resource for all nonprofits in need of communications support.
Whew, what a January. And we are just getting started. Here are a few upcoming events to mark your calendar:
Make the Most of Your WWPR Membership or Learn More About WWPR
Virtual | Feb. 11 at 9 a.m.
How AI Is Changing Search and What It Means for Your Reputation
Virtual | Feb. 18 at 8:30 a.m.
FIU in D.C. | Feb. 23 at 6 p.m.
I hope to see you at future events as we continue to focus on pride, purpose and connection. I welcome everyone, members and nonmembers alike, to bring their full selves to WWPR and experience a community dedicated to meeting women in communications where they are. And if you see me, please stop and say hello.
Cheers to 2026!
Charmaine
