WIB San Diego has been a member chapter of the original organization for over 20 years, and has a very important place in the hearts of its members. 

Inspired by a “Women, Work and Power” seminar held at UCLA, a few women who had met there continued to meet informally, to share ideas, achievements, and experiences.  Eventually, in 1976, this group incorporated and WIB was officially born.  Its goals – then and now – are to provide a forum for increasing professional development, personal growth and visibility – all factors that enable women to exert influence over and shape their worlds. 

Individually unique, the women of WIB San Diego are some of the most prominent and progressive women in San Diego County.  We represent many professions, everything from corporate America to the world of non-profit … from the halls of education to the halls of justice and government.  WIB San Diego members are diverse, encompassing women who are both starting their careers, as well as those who are in full stride … who come from all races and ethnic backgrounds … women who are single, married, with kids, and without.  One thing we all share is a commitment to succeed at our given professions; another is our desire to have a place to garner support, knowledge, and friendship just by showing up.

WIB San Diego members and guests find many events that personally appeal to them every month.  As examples …

Regular Meetings are held on the second Wednesday evening of each month.  These events are often dinner and a featured speaker – a woman who’s an expert in her field – but can sometimes be an “outing” of interest.  Typical speakers educate us on anything from forensic science to feng shui; an “outing” of interest might be a box lunch at the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, or a behind-the-scenes tour of the Old Globe Theatre.  No matter what, most of us come directly from our offices, still in business clothes, eager to see our friends, enjoy dinner, and be entertained and/or educated.

First Fridays are our monthly luncheon tradition, held – as you might guess! – on the first Friday of each month.  We meet for good food, a good hour or so of catching up with each other, and meeting the guests whom members often bring.  The conversations are lively at First Fridays, and the friendships are evident.  In order to accommodate most, these luncheons rotate monthly between Mission Valley and North County locations.

Casual Connections events are more informal gatherings, typically fewer members who are looking for an alternative way to meet fellow members.  Casual Connections events have included a night at the movies, a night at a Padres game, a happy hour at Morton’s downtown, and a make-up demo/lesson.  These fun events can be either “no-host” outings or, often, are hosted by a fellow member.

In addition to these, members only are invited to other fun-filled WIB San Diego events, such as the summer picnic in August – typically held at a member’s home, and the only event to which spouses and significant others are invited.  The funniest gift exchange ever is held at our Holiday Party, and our annual WIB San Diego Washington, D.C. trip continues to be a favorite amongst all members year after year.  On this trip, WIB shows it has a serious side and works to make a difference.  We meet with government leaders, movers and shakers … the very people who can do something about the issues we’re there to address.  Almost every year, we have a White Paper to present, and our causes run the gamut, from medical research to education.  The only criterion is that it be about women, for women, to benefit women.

Finally, WIB San Diego prides itself on the fact that it is NOT a chapter focused on networking … a breath of fresh air when compared to our daily lives.  Here the pressure is off, and the good times and good friendships are on!

Please feel free to visit the Newsletter, Photo Gallery, and the Events Calendar to learn more about WIB San Diego.  To learn more about our membership criteria and how to join, visit the Membership link.  To read profiles of the WIB San Diego Board Members, click here

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