Dear Members:

I’m not sure which is harder, writing when you aren’t sure what to say or, like I feel now, with an overflowing heart and soooo very much to say.

It was just a week ago we gathered for IGNITE 2026. We learned from remarkable speakers, tackled the important business of our organization, welcomed new leaders, renewed friendships, and celebrated the passion that continues to define NFBPWC and fuel our torches. I’m deeply honored by the confidence you have placed in me and my team as you re-elected us, and brought on two fantastic members to the Executive Committee.

Thank you for your trust. I promise to continue leading with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to our members.

August also brings us to Women’s Equality Day; a day that commemorates the 19th Amendment and the generations of women whose determination forever changed our nation’s history. 

While Harry T. Burn’s vote is often the only one remembered, history reminds us that no milestone is achieved by one person alone. Every vote mattered. Every voice mattered. Every individual who chose courage over comfort became a part of something much larger than themselves.

That lesson is just as meaningful today.

We did not cross a finish line in 1920. Instead, we chose to pick up a responsibility we carry forward – one that has been passed on from woman to woman ever since then.

This is one time when history repeating itself is a good thing. Each of us enjoys opportunities secured by the women who came before us. Women who believed the next generation deserved more than they had. While we are living in challenging times, we continue to embrace our task. We honor that legacy and create opportunities for those who follow us.

As business and professional women, we know that leadership today looks a whole lot different from what it did 107 years ago. Success is no longer measured by how many doors we open for ourselves, but by how many doors we hold open for others.

It is built through collaboration, innovation, mentorship, and the willingness to adapt to a changing world.

It is also built through partnership.

The future we seek is not one where women succeed apart from men. It is one where women and men work together, each bringing their talents, perspectives, and leadership to create stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a stronger world. 

Progress has never been about replacing one voice with another. It’s always been about ensuring every voice has the opportunity to be heard.

I hope each of us will carry the spirit of INGITE 2026 beyond our conference halls. Let us continue to IGNITE ideas, leadership, and meaningful partnerships. Let us IGNITE the confidence of the next generation of women leaders. Let history inspire us. Let us be the leaders of today and the inspiration that IGNITE the women of tomorrow.

Best Personal Wishes,

Barbara J. Bozeman
National President
2026-2028
president@nfbpwc.org