April marks the close of the first quarter of the year and a signal of a new start with Spring and warmer days ahead. I want to take a minute to acknowledge the wonderful work our community has accomplished in just three short months. We have hosted 6 events with nearly 500 participants across all events. We welcomed new members and wrote over 15 blog posts covering everything from the newsletters you need to follow to stay in the know to an insider’s guide to how to understand and navigate the newest social media network on the scene, Clubhouse. I am thrilled with the comradery and community that our members at WWPR have created in just 4 short months this year.
Christina Francisco, President WWPR
Second, I hope to see you all (virtually) on May 20 at the WWPR’s 2021 Emerging Leaders Awards (ELA) ceremony. We are excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our finalists and announce the winners in a special celebration that night. Additionally, we will hold a pre-event networking hour where we invite you to join us in a smaller group setting and build your own terrarium. More details can be found on our event page.
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the important verdict in the Chauvin trial and how it was a difficult moment. While one individual was finally held accountable, there is still work to be done. In light of this verdict and ongoing incidents of racial injustice, I want to take a minute to share that WWPR affirms our commitment to be an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment for people of all backgrounds. This is another solemn reminder that lives have been lost and cut short: Emmett Till, Eric Garner, Philando Castile, Sandra Bland, Freddie Gray, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo, and Ma’Khia Bryant.