In This Issue
In This Issue
PRESIDENT'S CORNER
Call for Help: New Student Membership Coming Soon
Last year, the EWTG Bylaws were updated to include a membership category for undergraduate and graduate students interested in a career in public service. The EWTG Board created a special committee focused on implementing this new membership type, and the committee developed a plan to roll it out in time for the 2026 fall semester.
Here’s where we need help from you! Do you have any contacts from your alma mater you could share with us? The committee would like to begin identifying and reaching out to relevant program heads at various Texas universities now, so we can partner with them leading up to the official roll-out in the fall. The committee will reach out to them directly for this outreach to students, but we welcome any help with a “soft” introduction via email.
Please reach out to communications@ewtg.org to share your alma mater’s contact information or anything else you think may be helpful. We appreciate your assistance and thank you for helping with this endeavor!
We encourage you to participate—through our educational programs, professional development opportunities, committees, and member engagement. Try something new. Step into new spaces. EWTG is here to support you as you continue to grow and lead.
We would love to hear how EWTG has supported you in embracing your power. Please share your stories or examples with us at communications@ewtg.org.
Submitted by Coleen M. Hall, Monica Dirba, and Sarah Melecki
EWTG President, 2025-2026; Engagement Director, 2026; and Professional Development Director, 2025-2026
Affiliates
Brazos Valley Affiliate
The Brazos Valley Affiliate is excited to announce their new leadership team:
Affiliate Chair: Hailey Norris
Affiliate Chair-Elect: Stacey Vasquez
Treasurer/Secretary: Mary Cass
The next meeting is scheduled on April 8, from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the College Station City Hall, Bush 4141 Conference Room (1101 Texas Ave., College Station, TX).
East Affiliate
The East Affiliate held its first virtual meeting on March 27, from 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Leadership Women Texas
A few affiliate members met during the Leadership Women Texas session in Fort Worth on March 22-24.
Submitted by Crystal Zhang
EWTG Affiliates Director, 2026
Education Corner
Mini Course - Pressure Tested: Communicating in High Stakes Moments
When the pressure is on, people who work in governmental circles must respond quickly, publicly, and under scrutiny, often with incomplete information and slim resources. In crisis and other high-pressure situations, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently can shape public trust and understanding, as well as individual reputations. This presentation explores strategies for delivering clear messages in challenging circumstances and discusses real-world examples of communicating effectively when the spotlight is on and the stakes are high.
Join us on Wednesday, April 8, from 12:00-1:00 p.m., as Carrie Williams, Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer for Texas Hospital Association, and former Chief Press Officer for Texas Health and Human Services Commission, shares her insights from leading communications in complex environments and offers practical guidance for navigating high-stakes communications with clarity, credibility, and confidence.
Registration is FREE for EWTG members and non-members.
Submitted by Jessica Hyde
EWTG Education Director, 2026
Success Teams
Book Club Success Team
The Book Club Success Team read Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir in November 2025 and loved it. When we heard about the Alamo Drafthouse South Book Club screening on March 21, some of us bought tickets. The film was awesome! Amaze, amaze, amaze!
This month, we are reading Mindful Self-Compassion for Burnout: Tools to Help You Heal and Recharge When You’re Wrung Out by Stress by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer. Over years of developing and teaching their renowned Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program, Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer have found MSC to be especially helpful for people dealing with the draining effects of burnout—from healthcare workers, teachers, and caregivers to exhausted business owners and employees. Each chapter shares an empathetic story of someone pushed to their limits and offers an easy-to-understand self-compassion tip that ends with a simple anti-burnout tool based on MSC practices. Discover quick and effective ways to recharge, reduce stress, and, most importantly, be kind to yourself so you can support others. (From Amazon)
The next book club meeting will be on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. Future meeting dates are:
- Wednesday, July 29
- Wednesday, September 30
- Wednesday, November 4
Submitted by Melissa Heild
EWTG Book Club Success Team Leader, 2026
Project Management Success Team
Advancing AI Project Management: March Meeting Highlights and Upcoming Plans
The Project Management Success Team convened on Tuesday, March 24, for a dynamic session focused on identifying and selecting artificial intelligence (AI) projects. Drawing on best practices from the Project Management Institute, members discussed critical considerations for evaluating and prioritizing AI initiatives that align with organizational goals and deliver measurable value.
The team meets every fourth Tuesday of every other month at noon. Mark your calendars for the next meeting on May 26, at 12:00 p.m. The upcoming session will continue exploring how to successfully manage AI projects, with further emphasis on practical frameworks, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. All members are encouraged to bring their questions, insights, and case studies to enrich the conversation. Stay tuned for additional updates, and let’s continue empowering excellence in project management for the future of Texas government!
We’re Not Retired – We’re Re-Wired!
EWTG is restarting a Success Team for our retired members!
Are you retired and seeking more purpose, passion, and positivity? The EWTG Rewirees Success Team could be the next chapter in your evolving story. This group offers activities and discussions designed for retirees, focusing on honoring legacy, staying engaged, and supporting meaningful next chapters. Rewirees may participate in activities together, such as exploring new places—traveling, visiting museums, hiking—pursuing creative hobbies such as painting, crocheting, or writing; volunteering at food banks, fundraising, donating blood; and learning new things through classes or other educational opportunities. The aim is to enjoy meaningful experiences together, give back to the community, continue learning, and support one another.
Submitted by Coleen M. Hall and Sarah Melecki
EWTG President, 2025-2026; Professional Development Director, 2025-2026
Shooting Stars Success Team
The Shooting Stars Success Team’s next meeting will be held virtually on Thursday, April 9, at 6:00 p.m. During the April meeting, members will hear from Whitney Ajie as she leads a presentation on AI for Leaders.
During the March open forum discussion, the conversations focused on lifelong learning and self-actualization efforts through education.
More about Shooting Stars
Shooting Stars is EWTG’s unique group for new or aspiring managers/leaders. This Success Team meets virtually and provides a mix of leadership programming and open discussion to help EWTG members achieve their professional and personal goals. All meetings start at 6:00 p.m. The 2026 schedule is as follows:
- April 9 - AI for Leaders by Whitney Ajie
- May 5 - Open forum discussion
- June 4 - Topic TBD by Chan McDermott
- July 7 - Open forum discussion
- August 6 - Stepping out of your comfort zone by Coleen Hall
- September 16 p.m. - Open forum discussion
- October 1 - Topic TBD by Karen Avery
- November 3 - Open forum discussion
- December 3 - Topic TBD by Shantesa Terrell
If you’re looking for a safe space to speak freely in confidence with other women aspiring to even greater heights, this is the place for you!
Send a message to communications@ewtg.org for the upcoming Zoom meeting link.
Give yourself an hour with Shooting Stars members to encourage and be encouraged by other women striving to be their best selves as managers/leaders. New members are always welcome!
Submitted by Marlene Phillips
EWTG Shooting Stars Success Team Leader, 2026
Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team
The Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team met at Hank’s restaurant on March 7. The spring brunch theme, Bloom and Brunch, inspired the brunch bunch to step outside their comfort zones, embrace personal growth, recharge wellness, and welcome a fresh mindset for this upcoming season. We shared inspiring conversation ranging from confidently tooting your own “horn” to stop shrinking and confidently become the leader you are meant to be, and embracing who you are wholly to bloom and flourish—both personally and professionally, where you are planted! We brunched on a delicious breakfast of lemon ricotta pancakes with a colossal mound of blueberry compote, Hank’s special breakfast, bacon, hash brown potatoes, and piping hot coffee. Chan donned her lovely “brunch bunch” sweatshirt! Thank you, Coleen, Chan, Lucie, Ana, and Rachel, for joining the Brunch Bunch.
The Brunch Bunch offers a great opportunity to network, connect with EWTG members, and try restaurants around Austin. We meet four times a year in an inviting environment that combines community with purpose and enjoy good food. Whether you're new to EWTG or have been a member for years, you'll find an open atmosphere that encourages friendly chats and helps nurture friendships.
Join us for meaningful conversations, leadership insights, and intentional networking on June 6 for a Summertime Sunshine Brunch! Leaders don’t dim their light to make others comfortable; we shine with purpose, confidence, and authenticity. The Summertime Sunshine Brunch theme will encourage members to shine and step boldly into leadership. Stay tuned for the next brunch location. For more information, please email communications@ewtg.org.
Submitted by Kimberly McConic
EWTG Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team Leader, 2026
Speak! Public Speaking and Facilitation Success Team
The Speak! Success Team continues to build momentum as members develop their public speaking skills in a supportive and engaging environment.
At the March meeting, several members delivered short “icebreaker” presentations, offering a creative and meaningful way to introduce themselves while practicing key presentation skills. Each speaker brought a unique approach, using storytelling, structure, and personal insights to connect with the group. The variety of styles was a great reminder that there is no single “right” way to present. Authenticity and clarity go a long way in creating impact.
The discussion also reinforced a few important themes. Organizing ideas into clear points helps both the speaker and the audience stay focused. Preparation builds confidence, but perfection is not the goal. Most importantly, developing your own voice is more effective than trying to mirror someone else’s style.
Our next meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 22, at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom.
We will continue with short practice presentations and provide time for members to work on their individual 5-10 minute talks. Whether you are ready to present or just getting started, you are welcome to join. This is a space to practice, experiment, and grow alongside others who are working toward the same goal.
If you have been thinking about participating, now is a great time to get involved.
Submitted by Laura Johannsen
EWTG Speak! Success Team Leader, 2026
Pizza My Heart Success Team
Join EWTG’s Pizza My Heart Success Team at our April meetup! We’ll be at Little Deli, 7101 Woodrow Avenue, Unit A, Austin, TX 78757, on Saturday, April 11, from 12:00–1:30 p.m. Known for its New Jersey-style pizza, the restaurant has a broad menu that includes more than just pizza (including a gluten-free option!). Little Deli also offers calzones, strombolis, Italian subs, sandwiches, soups, salads, and more.
To join us, RSVP to communications@ewtg.org by Thursday, April 9.
Submitted by Sarah Melecki
EWTG Pizza My Heart Success Team Leader, 2026
Procurement and Contracting Success Team
Your Insider Network for Procurement & Contracting Leadership!
At our March meeting, guest speaker Yvette Niemeyer, Founder of Niemeyer Solutions, led a session on Process Improvement in Procurement and Contracting. Yvette walked the group through three real-world scenarios our members identified: navigating fragmented document repositories with no central hub; building contract management processes from scratch when an agency has no existing framework; and tackling document retention challenges when nobody clearly owns the process. Across all three, Yvette identified a common pattern: over-reliance on individuals and lack of governance. She also shared actionable strategies for building organizational ownership.
The key takeaway? These aren’t isolated problems. They’re systemic patterns. And the fix starts with leadership choosing to invest in structure, not just expecting staff to figure it out.
Our next meeting is Tuesday, April 21, at 5:30 p.m., and we will cover Negotiation Strategies. The meeting will be virtual and feature guest speaker Marisol Claudio-Ehalt, Deputy Associate Commissioner of Complex Procurement at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Marisol is an engineer who spent 21 years working in Construction Procurement for the City of Austin, where she was Director. When she first joined state government, she served as a reviewer of procurements in the Comptroller’s Statewide Procurement Division. If you’ve ever navigated a tough negotiation or wanted to get better at it, then this is the session for you.
If you work in or adjacent to procurement and contracting and want to connect with women who understand the unique challenges of this field, join us! This Success Team shares strategies for navigating complex regulations, building executive skills, solving real-world challenges, and advancing careers in procurement and contracting. For more information or to participate, email communications@ewtg.org.
New members are always welcome!
Submitted by Holly Muir
EWTG Procurement & Contracting Success Team Leader, 2026
An Adventure in Lampasas
EWTG members enjoyed a day trip in Lampasas on March 14! The group originally planned to visit Colorado Bend State Park when the park was at capacity, but we pivoted to visit the Cooper Spring Nature Park instead.
The group then explored the Hannah Springs Sculpture Garden, which houses more than 20 sculptures ranging from tractors to totem poles, butterflies to guitars, and dice to daisies.
Next, members visited local shops and a farmer’s market at the Lampasas Town Square and had lunch at the Lampasas Beer Market, where we discussed the best professional advice we have ever received. While some members headed home after lunch, others finished the day enjoying the cool breeze (and the resident winery dog) on the patio at Texas Legato Winery.
The Lampasas group would like to go back to Colorado Bend State Park in the future when more passes are available – let us know if you would like to join by emailing communications@ewtg.org, and we will contact all interested members to pick a date.
Networking on New Horizons is planning an overnight trip to Denton and Dallas on June 12–13! More details and registration for the trip, which is open to all EWTG members, are coming soon. We hope to see you there!
Submitted by Alida Bennett
Networking on New Horizons! Success Team Leader, 2026
Sole Mates Walking Success Team
The Sole Mates Success Team partnered with the Networking on New Horizons Success Team and traveled to Lampasas for a day of fun in the sun on Saturday, March 14. We began with a nature walk at Spring Nature Park and journeyed over to a sculpture park. The weather was warm and refreshing, which made the outing pleasurable. It was a delight to join together Sole Mates and Networking on New Horizons members. Thank you to all who joined!
The Sole Mates Success Team provides EWTG members with opportunities to network while promoting physical well-being. Regular group walks foster community, shared purpose, and valuable professional connections. As women leaders, prioritizing physical activity is essential for mental acuity, reducing stress, and preventing burnout.
For the next Sole Mates walk, we will meet at the Brushy Creek trail in Cedar Park on Saturday, April 18, at 10:00 a.m. Detailed information to come. For more information and to RSVP, please email communications@ewtg.org.
Submitted by Kim McConic
EWTG Sole Mates EST Lead, 2026
Mentorship Programs
2026 Peer Mentoring Groups are Kicking Off!
EWTG is excited that 21 members signed up for our 2026 peer mentoring program. We are kicking off three groups of seven members each. Group members are paired based on common interests:
- Professional relationships and constructive conflict
- Leadership development
- Change management, decision making, and strategic planning
We look forward to group members providing and receiving support from one another over the coming year!
Questions? Contact Sarah Melecki at communications@ewtg.org.
Submitted by Sarah Melecki
EWTG Professional Development Director, 2025-2026
Membership News
Member Outreach: Welcomes, Check‑Ins, and a New Event!
To help new and existing members feel more at home within EWTG, the committee completed several rounds of personalized outreach including:
New Member Welcome Emails: All members who have joined in the last five months received a welcome message along with the updated EWTG Membership Guide.
Check‑In Messages: Members who joined last year received a friendly check‑in to see how their experience has been so far and to offer support or guidance.
Renewal Outreach: Members with upcoming March and April renewal dates received retention check‑ins to help them make the most of their membership and remind them that we’re here to assist with any questions they have.
In short, all members should expect to hear from us in some form, whether as a welcome, check‑in, or renewal reminder. Our goal is to ensure every member feels valued and connected.
We are also excited about our joint happy hour event with the Engagement Committee on Thursday, April 23, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at The Brewtorium Brewery Kitchen (6015 Dillard Circle A, Austin, Texas).
We encourage all current members to bring a colleague or friend who is not yet a member - it’s a wonderful way to introduce others to EWTG and expand professional development within your networks. There will also be a raffle for members who bring a non-member!
We look forward to connecting with all members and continuing to support your journey with EWTG. If you are not yet a member…the happy hour event is a great way to learn more.
Submitted by Lucie Prieto
EWTG Membership Director, 2026
2026 Annual Conference
2026 EWTG Annual Professional Development Conference
The success of the EWTG Annual Professional Development Conference is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers. Each of these leaders plays a vital role in making the conference an impactful experience for our attendees.
Alida Bennett, Conference Director
As Conference Director, Alida works closely with EWTG leadership and committee chairs to guide strategy, coordinate timelines, and ensure the conference reflects EWTG’s mission.
Jennifer Chancellor-Hurd, Deputy Conference Director
Serving as Deputy Conference Director, Jennifer supports the coordination of conference operations and committee collaboration. She works alongside the Conference Director to help ensure planning stays on track and that committees are aligned as they prepare for the event.
Chan McDermott, Program Chair
Chan leads the coordination of the breakout speakers and learning opportunities designed to inspire leadership and support professional growth among attendees.
Dr. Carol Egele, Woman of the Year Chair
A highlight of the conference each year is the recognition of our Woman of the Year. This important recognition is led by our Woman of the Year Chair, Dr. Egele, who oversees the nomination, selection, and recognition process.
Leala Estus & Milan Kemp, Engagement Committee Co-Chairs
The Engagement Committee, led by Co-Chairs Leala and Milan, focuses on creating meaningful networking opportunities and engaging experiences for conference attendees.
Deepika Sharma, Sponsorship Chair
As Sponsorship Chair, Deepika leads the effort to build partnerships with organizations that support the EWTG mission. Sponsorships play an important role in enhancing the conference experience and connecting partners with EWTG’s statewide network of professionals.
Jennifer Echevarria, Registration Chair
The Registration Chair oversees the conference registration process and post survey to help ensure a smooth experience for attendees. This role plays an important part in welcoming participants and supporting the overall conference experience.
Join the Conference Committee
The EWTG conference is made possible by volunteers. If you are interested in serving on a conference committee, we encourage you to get involved and help us create an inspiring and impactful 2026 EWTG Conference.
Submitted by Alida Bennett
EWTG Conference Director, 2026
Get Involved
Join Us for Happy Hour!
Who is interested in a fun, relaxed evening with fellow EWTGers? It’s your lucky day as we have scheduled a Spring Happy Hour on Thursday, April 23, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at The Brewtorium Brewery & Kitchen (6015 Dillard Circle A, Austin).
Engagement Committee and Membership Committee members will be there to share in the camaraderie and community event. For each friend you bring who might be interested in joining EWTG, you’ll be entered in a raffle with prizes consisting of must-have leadership books and $25 gift cards from various places in the area.
This fun event is open to all EWTG members and friends who may be interested in joining EWTG.
If you are interested in joining the Engagement Committee, please volunteer today. We could use your creativity and insight!
Submitted by Monica Dirba
EWTG Engagement Director, 2026
Events & Announcements
April Birthdays
Alida Bennett
Cynthia Brio
Jessica Brown
Tessa Cuffy
Ana Duncan
Sarah Hernandez
Rachel Laca
Kimberly McConic
Hailey Norris
Latishia Sanabria
Shantesa Terrell
Kari Winkley
Rachel Wiseman
We wish you all a wonderful celebration!
Save the Date
April 8, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – April Mini Course [Learn More]
April 8, 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. - Brazos Valley Affiliate Meeting [Learn More]
April 9, 6:00 p.m. - Shooting Stars Success Team [Learn More]
April 11, 12:00–1:30 p.m. - Pizza My Heart Success Team [Learn More]
April 18, 10:00 a.m. - Sole Mates Success Team [Learn More]
April 21, 5:30 p.m. - Procurement and Contracting Success Team [Learn More]
April 22, 5:30 p.m. - Speak! Success Team [Learn More]
April 23, 5:00-7:00 p.m. - Engagement and Membership Committee Happy Hour [Learn More]
May 26, 12:00 p.m. - Project Management Success Team [Learn More]
May 27, 5:30 p.m. - Book Club Success Team [Learn More]
June 6, 11:00 a.m. - Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team [Learn More]
June 12–13 - Networking on New Horizons Trip to Denton and Dallas [Learn More]
November 8-9, Annual Professional Development Conference [Learn More]
Connect with EWTG Online!
If you have news to share, we'd love to hear from you!
Send your news to communications@ewtg.org.