Dear NFBPWC Members,

September has arrived and with it, a season of incredibly energy for our Federation! I am so proud of the work we are doing together, and this month, I wish to recognize our Young Women in Leadership. These women are not just preparing for the future, they are leading right now with strength, vision, and courage.

Our Young BPW Chair has just begun her studies at George Washington University, continuing her education while still guiding and inspiring within our Federation. That is exactly the kind of drive and balance that makes us proud. At the same time, a recent conversation with one of our long-time members who reminded me of the importance of encouragement across the generations. Her words were simply but powerful: “never stand in the way of progress.” That wisdom continues to light our path.

I want to recognize our Young BPW members. Each is making her mark, contributing to our mission, and proving that our organization is at its best when women of all generations lead side by side.  Being a Young BPW member does not mean standing on the sidelines, waiting for a turn.  It means stepping into leadership today – bringing fresh vision, energy, and conviction to the work before us.  These women show us that leadership is not something deferred to later in life, but something lived boldly in the present.  Their impact is already shaping our Federation, and their voices remind us that progress is strongest when every generation is fully engaged. 

A September Full of Opportunities

Get ready! It’s a busy and exciting month ahead!

• Entrepreneur & Small Business: Spotlighting Young Women in Leadership
• Finance Committee: Grant Writing Workshop
• Health Committee: hosting a Virtual Health Fair
• NAC (Regional): “Advocacy on the Line: Crafting Position Papers to Spark Change!”

And looking further ahead, planning continues for the Biennial General Assembly in Raleigh, North Carolina in July of 2026. Mark your calendar now, it will be an event to remember.

This isn’t Goodbye!

As we celebrate this issue and the change of seasons, saying goodbye to summer, so too, we are saying so long to Michele Guarino – our Magazine Editor. For eight years+, she has carried the heart of our Federation in her hands, transforming what began as a simple newsletter into the vibrant, dynamic magazine we all look forward to every month. Her creativity, dedication and vision has turned our publication into more than just “pages” – it has become a living record of who we are and what we stand for.

While this marks her final issue as Editor, it is not goodbye. She is embarking on an exciting new chapter in Italy. Though oceans may lie between us, we are grateful she will remain part of our sisterhood as a member of the Virtual Club. With deep appreciation, we thank her for her years of extraordinary service and wish her joy, adventure and every success in this next adventure she undertakes.

UN80: A Global Celebration

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations – a milestone that calls us to reflect on the power of global cooperation. I invite you to:

• Read the UN80 article in this magazine.
• Visit the official UN80 page on the United Nations website to explore this important history and celebration.

Call to Action: Champion Young Leadership

This month, I encourage you to actively celebrate and support the leadership of young women. Share their stories, invite their voices in to the conversation and prepare from their perspectives. Leadership is strong when it spans generations and NFBPWC is proof of that truth.

Together, let’s be visible, vocal and visionary. September is our chance to shine. Let’s embrace it fully!

BARBARA BOZEMAN
PRESIDENT, NFBPWC
2024-2026