Hello, IWIL Community!
April is here, and I have to say — the energy inside this organization right now is absolutely electric. Coming off a remarkable Women's History Month and the excitement of our brand-new website launch, we are stepping into spring with momentum, purpose, and some truly can't-miss events on the calendar. I hope you're as energized as I am.
This month, I want to talk about something that shows up in every workplace, every team, every organization — including ours: the beautiful, sometimes complicated, always powerful dynamic of generational diversity.
We are living in a moment when five generations are navigating the professional world side-by-side. That is unprecedented. And for women in leadership, it is both an opportunity and a responsibility. How do we communicate across those generational lines? How do we mentor someone whose worldview was shaped by a completely different era — and receive mentorship from someone whose is, too? How do we build teams where every woman, regardless of when
she was born, feels valued, heard, and positioned to lead?
Those are exactly the questions we'll be exploring together at our April Luncheon on Thursday, April 16, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at Mariah's Steakhouse. Our speaker, Valerie Belusko, Community & Economic Development Educator with Illinois Extension, will walk us through practical strategies for harnessing generational strengths — not just tolerating differences, but turning them into your team's greatest competitive advantage. Whether you're a Boomer with decades of institutional wisdom, a Gen Z professional just beginning to find your voice, or anywhere in between, this session was made for you.
Early bird registration closes April 10, so don't wait. Register now at iwil217.org before the price increases on April 11.
Then, mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 29, because we are doing something a little different — and I think you're going to love it. We're combining the warmth and energy of our beloved Pop-up Social with the official kickoff of our Community Health Giving Circle into one fabulous evening at The Pearl inside Vele, 3241 W. Iles Ave., from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Light appetizers are on us, the bar is cash (cards welcome), and the company will be, as always, the best part. This free event is open to members, guests, and prospective members — so bring a friend, bring a colleague, bring the woman in your life who's been on the fence about joining.
We'd love to welcome her.
The Community Health Giving Circle is one of the most meaningful things we do as an organization, and kicking it off in community, over good food and great conversation, feels exactly right.
April is a month of renewal — and IWIL is renewing right along with the season. A new website. New energy. Events designed to challenge us, connect us, and remind us why this community matters so deeply.
I can't wait to see you there.
With gratitude and enthusiasm,
Debbie Thompson
President, Illinois Women in Leadership