Executive Women International

Overview

Executive Women International (EWI) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering professional growth and community engagement among its members. Founded in 1938 by Lucille Johnson Perkins in San Francisco, it originally served as Executives’ Secretaries Inc., focusing on the development of key women supporting top executives in major firms.

Mission

The mission of EWI is to bring together key individuals from diverse businesses for three main purposes:

• Promoting Member Firms: EWI supports its member firms through networking and professional relationships.
• Enhancing Personal and Professional Development: The organization provides various programs to enhance the skills and leadership abilities of its members.
• Encouraging Community Involvement: EWI encourages its members to participate in community projects and philanthropy.

Vision

EWI's vision is to empower its members to inspire positive change while fostering a global community of professional women.

History

EWI expanded to become an international organization in 1964 with the establishment of its first Canadian chapter in Calgary, Alberta. It formally changed its name to Executive Women International in 1977 to reflect its international presence and the evolving roles of women in business.

Values

EWI operates under the principles of Integrity, Excellence, Respect, and Collaboration. These values guide its activities in promoting professionalism, community service, and mutual respect among members.

Programs and Activities

• Academy of Leadership: Offers leadership training and development programs.
• ASIST Scholarships: Provides academic scholarships to deserving students.
• EWISP Reading Rallies: Organizes educational events to promote literacy.
• Emerging Executive Women Speakers Database: A resource that highlights women leaders.

Structure

Membership in EWI is by invitation only, with each chapter limited to 101 firms. The organization is managed by volunteer boards at both the corporate and chapter levels. Today, EWI includes over 1,000 companies and more than 1,100 representatives in chapters across the United States and Canada.