On May 15th the Atlanta Chapter of Executive Women International joined with numerous past presidents of the group, Corporate EWI leaders, past members and honored guests to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of EWI in Atlanta. The memorable event was held beneath a luxurious tented area beside the gently flowing Chattahoochee River at the celebrated Canoe restaurant in Atlanta.
As past presidents were given corsages, announced and escorted in to the event, all in attendance applauded their leadership and accomplishments. Words of welcome were shared by the Immediate Past President, Gail Graham Williams of member firm RockTenn and introductions were made of the dignitaries present for the festivities. Joining the event were EWI Corporate President Louise Anderson and Corporate Secretary/Treasurer Nancy Harrison and their spouses.
A special meal and perhaps the tastiest cake ever made were enjoyed by all. The audience was captivated as current members, including Barbara Hooten of member firm Macy’s and Elaine Sharp of member firm Chick-fil-A, shared meaningful insights and thoughts. Thanks were offered for the legacy of leadership those present had shared with countless members over the past 50 years. Dignitaries from EWI Corporate praised the significant depth and breadth of the legacy of Atlanta’s leadership, and noted the obvious caring and compassion the members have for their fellows and for their community. Each of the 17 past presidents able to attend were introduced by year of leadership and shared what they felt the most meaningful remembrance of their year as president was. Following each year of memory a balloon was released in honor of the leader.
The extraordinary planning that went into making this a highlight of the year was evident from the venue selection, the big golden bows, to the gift bags awarded to past presidents as they departed. Included in the gift bags were a framed group photograph taken and processed during the gathering, and prepared for them to take home as a most meaningful remembrance. Friendships were both reacquainted and made at this exquisite event…connections and reconnections. All in attendance, even our newest members, gained an even deeper appreciation and respect for our organizational roots. EWI of Atlanta looks back with gratitude and forward with hope – growing toward our glorious future.
