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President's Corner
Ringing in the New Year with EWTG: Embrace Your Power!
Happy New Year, EWTG members and soon-to-be members! I am thrilled to ring in the New Year and start my second term as the 2025-2026 EWTG President. I am honored to continue serving in this role, privileged to lead and mentor the phenomenal women in this organization, and excited for another year of EWTG activities and events.
EWTG has been a beacon of inspiration in my own leadership journey. As I reflect on the incredible legacy of my predecessors and our dedicated Board of Directors, Committee Chairs, and members, I feel blessed to work beside them. Together, we have propelled EWTG to new heights. I am committed to preserving and enhancing this legacy while fostering a culture of innovation, inclusiveness, collaboration, and growth.
The theme I selected for EWTG this year is Embrace Your Power! This theme reinforces last year’s theme (Unite, Empower, Elevate!) by changing how you show up and how others are invited to show up with you. True power is not about control; it is about lifting the standard. When you are grounded in your own power, you lead from clarity rather than insecurity. Power that is embraced is contagious. Embracing your power creates alignment instead of division, confidence instead of dependence, and growth instead of stagnation. This theme aligns with the priorities and goals I have set for my second term as President.
During my two-year term, my primary focus is to modernize our organization, strengthen partnerships, increase membership, expand outreach to affiliate chapters, and enhance member engagement. One of my top priorities is to foster stronger connections among our members, partners, and communities. Your input and participation are vital to our success. I encourage each of you to share your ideas, insights, and feedback. Together, we can identify opportunities, address challenges, and celebrate achievements.
As we embark on this journey, I invite you to be an active member of EWTG! Whether through participation in our educational programs, professional development opportunities, or membership and committee activities, your involvement will shape the future of EWTG. I am excited to collaborate with each of you to make our vision a reality. Together, let us build a stronger, more vibrant EWTG!
Feel free to reach out to me with your ideas, insights, or feedback at communications@ewtg.org.
Professional Development News
Mini-Course: Unlock Your Retirement Future: Understanding ERS Benefits (RESCHEDULED)
Join us on Wednesday, January 21st, from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. (CT) as Kari Winkley, Assistant Director of Benefits Counseling at the Employees Retirement System of Texas (ERS), demystifies retirement benefits for state employees! Learn how your annuity, insurance options, and long-term service add up – and why the “three-legged stool” (ERS annuity, Social Security, and personal savings) is key to building a strong financial foundation for life after work.
Registration is FREE for EWTG members and non-members.
One-on-One Mentoring Program
Are you interested in advancing yourself professionally with the assistance of a mentor? We are excited to offer a mentorship opportunity for EWTG members in 2026!
About the experience: The program runs from February to December 2026. Mentors and mentees meet once per month at their convenience. Additionally, mentors and mentees will attend a kickoff event, mid-year social, and end-of-year event.
The ideal mentee: We are looking for members who are interested in improving professionally by taking a lead role in their mentorship experience in 2026. Mentees should be open to development and new experiences.
Questions? Contact Sarah Melecki at communications@ewtg.org.
Affiliates
“If you can’t find what you’re looking for, create it.”
My name is Crystal Zhang. I am truly honored to serve as the 2026 Affiliates Director and to be part of such an inspiring and accomplished group of women. I have 12 years of experience with the Texas Department of Transportation, preceded by many years in the private sector. I earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin.
EWTG currently has only one Affiliate (Brazos Valley), but I learned that many members are interested in participating in local affiliates. My goal is to create more affiliates in 2026. If you would like to join the Brazos Valley Affiliate or would like to start an Affiliate in your area, please reach out to communications@ewtg.org.
Please stay tuned for more information in February!
Executive Success Teams
Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Executive Success Team
The Go Anyway Brunch Bunch EST is looking forward to the new year and encourages members to grab an EWTG friend and join for brunch! The Brunch Bunch will host themed brunches: March - Bloom and Brunch; June - Summertime Sunshine Brunch; September- Fall Harvest and Hustle; and December – Merry Friendsmas!
The Brunch Bunch is an excellent way to network and socialize with fellow EWTG members, as well as discover new restaurants in and around the Austin area. We gather quarterly for lively conversation, inspiration, and connect over delicious meals. Whether you're new to EWTG or a long-standing member, you'll find a welcoming environment that fosters friendly conversations and helps build lasting relationships.
The next brunch bunch will be on March 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. More information will be available soon, or you can send an email to the communications@ewtg.org mailbox.
Speak! Public Speaking and Facilitation Executive Success Team
New Year, New Rhythm for Speak!
The Speak! EST is kicking off 2026 with a new meeting schedule and a renewed focus on helping members develop confident, compelling presentations, one step at a time.
Beginning this month, the group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Some sessions will feature short presentations on speaking strategies or tools, while others will serve as dedicated coworking time for members to work on their individual talks. Whether you're just beginning to outline your thoughts or polishing a well-loved message, you're welcome to join at any stage.
There’s no expectation to do “homework” between meetings; come as you are. We’ll make space for progress together.
Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 13, and will include a short presentation on using AI to support your Preparation Process. This practical session will demonstrate how tools like ChatGPT can help organize ideas, brainstorm titles, and boost confidence without taking over your voice.
All members are welcome, whether you’re just getting started or picking up where you left off in 2025. If you would like to join our January meeting, please email communications@ewtg.org for the meeting link.
Procurement and Contracting Executive Success Team
The Procurement and Contracting EST allowed members to enjoy holiday plans and will reconvene in January 2026. Holly Muir will be the 2026 Contract and Procurement EST Leader.
The Procurement and Contracting EST brings together procurement and contract management professionals to share expertise, provide support, solve common challenges, and discuss leadership topics relevant to the field of procurement and contract administration. The Contract and Procurement EST welcomes and encourages EWTG members to join, learn, and share their knowledge and experiences. The next meeting will be announced soon. To learn more or participate, please email communications@ewtg.org.
Project Management Executive Success Team
The Project Management EST, a dynamic group within EWTG, convened on December 3, 2025, to explore the latest trends shaping the project management landscape. The meeting sparked insightful discussions about emerging practices for 2025, the anticipated evolution of project methodologies in 2026, and essential strategies for upskilling to stay ahead of industry changes.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for our next meeting on January 27 at noon. This introductory session will focus on managing AI projects—a timely and critical skill set for today’s project managers. This meeting will set the stage for an advanced series on the topic. Whether you’re new to AI project management or have insights to share, we encourage you to join the conversation and lend your expertise.
Together, we’re building a supportive network to empower women leaders and drive excellence in Texas government. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with your peers!
EWTG-Leadership Women Executive Success Team
Leaders from EWTG and Leadership Women will meet on January 22nd at 6:00 p.m. at the Carver Public Library in Austin for an energizing session of what will soon be our newly renamed EST. We will share our goals for the year and complete an activity about the Harvard Business Review article “Women Winning in the Workplace.”
Our conversation will explore how women build and leverage “experience capital”, identify strong employers with smart strategies, and make bold moves to expand skills and influence. We’ll also focus on stepping confidently into leadership roles and strengthening our technology acumen, especially in the rapidly evolving world of AI. Expect meaningful dialogue, fresh insights, and practical takeaways to fuel success in the year ahead.
Sole Mates Walking Executive Success Team
Sole Mates EST offers EWTG members opportunities to network while prioritizing their physical well-being. Walking together offers community and connections. As professional women leaders, we must ensure that we incorporate regular physical activity to enhance energy, mental health, and work productivity.
The next walk is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, at 10:00 a.m. (location to be announced). For more information or to participate, please contact communications@ewtg.org.
Membership News
New Year, New Connections: Growing EWTG in 2026
Hello EWTG Members,
My name is Lucie Prieto and I am honored to serve as your 2026 Membership Director. I bring to this role 25 years of state service, including 12 years with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles where I founded and lead the Background & Fraud Unit. Building teams, procedures, and culture from the ground up has taught me the power of collaboration and integrity – values I see reflected in EWTG’s mission. Since joining EWTG, I have been inspired by the incredible women leaders whose vision and service have strengthened my commitment to help our membership grow and thrive.
This year my goals for membership are simple yet ambitious:
- Grow our network by reaching new professionals across agencies, affiliates, and industries, ensuring EWTG reflects the diversity of Texas Women in leadership.
- Engage new members with personalized welcomes and clear pathways to involvement so they feel connected from day one.
- Collaborate across committees to design events and initiatives that highlight the value of belonging to EWTG.
Together, we can make 2026 a year of growth, inclusion, and authentic connection. To achieve this, I invite you to get involved with the Membership Committee – whether by sharing ideas, lending talents, or helping us welcome new members. I look forward to working alongside you to strengthen and expand the circle of women leaders across Texas.
Start the year strong – join the Membership Committee and spark a wave of curiosity about EWTG!!
Big Thanks and Big Hopes from the Engagement Committee!
Last year, about this time, I reached out to Chan McDermott to see if she could use some help with the newly formed Engagement Committee. Our first meeting was the two of us brainstorming how to better connect new and existing members with EWTG. I had been a member for three years prior and had only attended the annual fall conference twice.
Now, a year later, I’m the Engagement Committee Director working with five smart women toward the goal of assisting EWTG members navigate the organization to become more involved and active. We’ll continue to host quarterly New Member Orientation (NMO) sessions, so keep an eye out for a notification coming out in February.
If you are interested in helping with the Engagement Committee, please reach out to us at communications@ewtg.org, and we will get you connected!
Get Involved
EWTG Community Service Committee- Community Focused and Action Oriented!
Hello EWTG! I’m Kim McConic, the incoming 2026 Community Service Chair.
I've been a member of EWTG for three years and counting! In 2025, I served as the EST leader for the Go Any Brunch Bunch, Procurement and Contract, and Sole Mates. I am excited to serve as the 2026 Community Service Chair.
I will continue community service efforts through the backpack drive, Central Texas Mobile Food Bank, blood drive, and the Susan G. Komen Race and Gala. I look forward to partnering with new charities and organizations to support and serve as a community-focused and action-oriented committee.
Please look out for more Community Service information on the EWTG website or email the communication mailbox at communications@ewtg.org.
Events & Announcements
January Birthdays
Shawana Abrams, LaTeesha Brown, Laure McLaughlin, Theresa McShan, Angelica Powers, Deana Sanders
We wish you all a wonderful celebration!
Save the Date
January 13, 5:30 p.m. - Speak! EST Meeting [Learn More]
January 17, 10:00 a.m. - Sole Mates EST Meeting [Learn More]
January 19 - Deadline to sign up for 2026 One-on-One Mentorship Program [Learn More]
January 21, 12:00 p.m. – January Mini Course [Learn More]
January 22, 6:00 p.m. - EWTG-Leadership Women EST Meeting [Learn More]
January 27, 12:00 p.m. - Project Management EST Meeting [Learn More]
March 7, 11:00 a.m. - Go Anyway Brunch Bunch EST Meeting [Learn More]