In This Issue
In This Issue
PRESIDENT'S CORNER
40th Annual EWTG Professional Development Conference
The countdown is on for the 40th Annual EWTG Professional Development Conference! Join us November 8–9 at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions for two energizing days of learning, connection, and celebration. If you have not registered yet, reserve your spot today. Regular registration rates end October 31. EWTG members save $100, so join or renew your membership before registering.
This year’s theme, Embrace Your Power!, comes to life through a dynamic agenda featuring inspiring speakers, valuable networking opportunities (check out our pre-conference networking workshop), and engaging activities designed to help attendees grow and thrive. A conference highlight will be the announcement and celebration of the EWTG Woman of the Year Award [Learn More About the 2026 Nominees].
The conference offers high-quality educational sessions that are diverse, innovative, interactive, inclusive, and timely. EWTG members and first-time guests from Texas government, academia, and public-private partnerships are invited to learn, connect, and celebrate this milestone together. Attendees are also encouraged to collect toiletries for the Annual Toiletry Drive benefiting SAFE Alliance and bring their donations to the conference. [Learn More]
Leadership Texas Class of 2027
EWTG is proud to support Leadership Women and share information about the Leadership Texas Class of 2027. This statewide, experiential program helps professionals strengthen their leadership skills while examining major issues shaping Texas, including education, health care, the environment, and the economy. During visits to three Texas cities, participants build relationships, exchange ideas, and deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities affecting our state.
I experienced the program’s impact firsthand. In 2022, I received the inaugural EWTG Audrey Selden Leadership Women Scholarship Award and joined the Leadership Texas Class of 2022. The experience connected me with accomplished women leaders from across the state while expanding my professional network and perspective. Today, the EWTG Audrey Selden Scholarship helps active EWTG members pursue admission to Leadership Women’s Texas, America, or Pipeline programs.
The scholarship application deadline for the Leadership Texas Class of 2027 has been extended to October 31. Active EWTG members may apply for funding that supports professional and personal development through conferences, seminars, formal education, Leadership Women programs, and the EWTG Annual Professional Development Conference. Review the opportunities and apply at https://ewtg.org/scholarships/.
Submitted by Coleen M. Hall
EWTG President, 2025-2026
Affiliates
Brazos Valley Affiliate
The Brazos Valley Affiliate hosted a social event on September 10.
South Affiliate
The South Affiliate held in-person meetings on September 12 in San Antonio and Brownsville.
East Affiliate
The East Affiliate held an in-person nature walk on September 26.
Upcoming Affiliate Events
- North Affiliate: Virtual discussion of Brené Brown’s latest book, Strong Ground, from 12:00–1:00 p.m. on October 2.
- Brazos Valley Affiliate: In person event from 12:00–1:00 p.m. on October 14.
Submitted by Crystal Zhang
EWTG Affiliates Director, 2026
Education Corner
Mini Course – Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
Designed for women leaders who are ready to grow, this dynamic presentation explores how embracing discomfort is the ultimate catalyst for professional development and career breakthroughs. Staying where it’s safe has quiet costs that can stall your progress. You’ll walk away with knowledge of those costs, a simple map of the four zones, ways to shift your mindset, and concrete moves to make at work.
Join us Wednesday, October 14, from 12:00–1:00 p.m., as Coleen M. Hall, EWTG President, discusses her own path and how stretching your boundaries can unlock your next level of leadership influence.
Coleen M. Hall retired from the state of Texas in 2025 after 28 years of public service across multiple health and human services agencies, including the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the Texas Department of State Health Services, and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Passionate about service and leadership, Coleen currently serves as the 2025–2026 EWTG President and was honored to receive the prestigious EWTG Woman of the Year award in 2025.
Coleen is a member of Leadership Women and is active in volunteer work, including Austin Pets Alive!, where she supports foster dog adoptions. She holds a Master of Science in Health Services/Health Promotion and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Sociology. Coleen maintains several professional certifications, including Certified Health Education Specialist, Certified Mental Health First Aider for adults and youth, and Certified Basic Investigations/Inspections.
In addition to her volunteer and leadership roles, Coleen has operated a Mary Kay business for 10 years. She enjoys connecting with women, reading, writing, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new adventures in retirement.
Registration is FREE for EWTG members and non-members.
Submitted by Jessica Hyde
EWTG Education Director, 2026
Success Teams
Shooting Stars Success Team
During the September Shooting Stars Success Team meeting, members engaged in an open forum discussion. The Shooting Stars Success Team’s next meeting will be held virtually on Thursday, October 1, at 6:00 p.m.
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 Shooting Stars schedule is as follows:
- October 1 – Discussion of Brené Brown’s book, Strong Ground
- November 3 – Open forum discussion
- December 3 – Renewed Leadership: Reflection, Purpose & Intention for the New Year 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
Pizza My Heart Success Team
Join EWTG’s Pizza My Heart Success Team for our next meetup at Allday Pizza’s Hyde Park location, 4300 Speedway, Austin, TX 78751 on Saturday, October 10, from 12:00–1:30 p.m. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.
We are excited to partner with the Community Service Committee this month. If you are making a blood donation on the same day as part of EWTG’s blood drive, you’ll want to make sure you get a good meal in, and we would love to have you join us for pizza!
To join us, please RSVP to communications@ewtg.org by October 8.
Submitted by Sarah Melecki
EWTG Professional Development Director, 2026
Procurement and Contracting Success Team
At our September meeting, the Procurement and Contracting Success Team explored stakeholder engagement through a real story from the field. Members learned three simple tools: map stakeholders early, lead with the answer, and a 3-step persuasion framework (acknowledge, reframe, and conclude). The session gave members steps they could use right away.
Our next meeting is Tuesday, October 20, at 5:30 p.m., and will be held virtually. We’re pleased to welcome guest speaker Sophia Samuel, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Crescens Inc., a Texas Department of Information Resources Deliverables-Based Information Technology Services Contract Holder. Sophia will cover how vendors interpret, price, and respond to government solicitations and what procurement and contracting staff should know about the other side of the table. Whether you work in procurement, grants, finance, or contracting, this presentation will give you a different perspective!
This session is open to all EWTG members. Email communications@ewtg.org to request the meeting link.
Submitted by Holly Muir
EWTG Procurement and Contracting Success Team Leader, 2026
Book Club Success Team
For the book club’s September 30 meeting, we chose to read one or both of the following novels.
Getting to Happy, by Terry McMillan: In Waiting to Exhale, Terry McMillan chronicled the lives and love affairs of women in their mid-thirties, opening up an entirely new literary field and audience for African American writers. In Getting to Happy, McMillan revisits the same women 15 years later – Savannah, Gloria, Bernadine, and Robin.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, by Mark Haddon: A modern classic about a boy with autism who sets out to solve the murder of a neighbor’s dog and discovers unexpected truths about himself and the world.
The next meeting is Wednesday, November 4, at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. To join the book club and receive an email about the next book we’ll discuss, please email communications@ewtg.org.
Submitted by Melissa Heild
EWTG Book Club Success Team Leader, 2026
We Lead Success Team
In August, the We Lead Success Team met to discuss how imposter syndrome shows up for us. Here’s Jen Echevarria’s comments on the meeting: “As a first-time attendee of a We Lead Success Team meeting, I left feeling incredibly inspired by the remarkable women in the room. The opportunity to connect, network, and have authentic conversations about our strengths, challenges, and leadership journeys created a welcoming and supportive environment where vulnerability was encouraged and celebrated. It reminded me that leadership is not only about achievement, but also about lifting one another up, learning from shared experiences, and growing together.”
Join the We Lead Success Team on November 8 from 6:30–8:00 p.m. at Mas Fajitas, 3050 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Round Rock, TX 78665, as we get ready for an exciting 2027.
We’ll select our 2027 We Lead facilitators, choose our quarterly meeting dates, and select the topic for our January 2027 meeting. We’ll also hear what’s ahead from Leadership Women and share our early experiences from the EWTG Annual Professional Development Conference.
Most importantly, this is a chance to reconnect, exchange ideas, and enjoy time with women who believe leadership is a lifelong journey. The We Lead Success Team is all about supporting one another in our personal and professional pursuits, continuing to learn and grow, and having plenty of fun along the way.
And because every good meeting needs a little extra excitement, door prizes will be awarded! Bring your ideas, your energy, and your leadership spirit. Let’s plan a great year for the We Lead Success Team! RSVP to communications@ewtg.org or Audrey Selden by October 20.
Submitted by Audrey Selden and Chan McDermott
EWTG We Lead Success Team Leaders, 2026
Project Management Success Team
On September 22 at noon, the Project Management Success Team met to discuss how Lean Six Sigma tools can strengthen projects in a government setting. The conversation focused on SIPOC—Suppliers, Inputs, Processes, Outputs, and Customers—and process value stream mapping as practical ways to clarify project scope, identify stakeholders, visualize workflows, and uncover opportunities to reduce delays and improve value.
The team plans to continue this conversation at its next meeting on December 1, at 12:00 p.m. The adjusted date accommodates the Thanksgiving holiday and gives participants an opportunity to further explore how these tools can support efficient, transparent, and customer-focused government project delivery.
Submitted by Dr. Carole Egele
EWTG Project Management Success Team Leader, 2026
Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team
The Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team had a festive Fall Harvest and Hustle brunch on Saturday, September 5. The fall season reminded us that growth happens through seasons of change. As the fall season began, we celebrated our achievements, reflected on our leadership growth, and focused on moving toward our professional goals and new opportunities. Let us harvest the lessons we’ve learned and keep hustling forward with purpose!
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 we 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.
Our upcoming brunch, themed “Have a Merry Friends-mas,” will be held on December 5 at 11:00 a.m. The location will be announced closer to the date. For more information, please email the communications@ewtg.org mailbox. We look forward to seeing you there!
Submitted by Kimberly McConic
EWTG Go Anyway Brunch Bunch Success Team Leader, 2026
2026 Annual Conference
40th Annual EWTG Professional Development Conference
November 8–9, 2026 | Kalahari Resort, Round Rock
The countdown is on for the 40th Annual EWTG Professional Development Conference! Join us November 8–9 at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions for two energizing days of learning, connection, and celebration. If you have not registered yet, reserve your spot today. Regular registration rates end October 31.
Submitted by Coleen M. Hall
EWTG President, 2025-2026
Meet the 2026 EWTG Woman of the Year Nominees
EWTG is proud and honored to announce the seven extraordinary nominees for the 2026 Woman of the Year award. Each year, this distinguished recognition celebrates a woman who has set herself apart through exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication to public service, and a steadfast commitment to advancing women across Texas government and beyond. The nominees chosen for 2026 embody the very best of what EWTG stands for — courage, collaboration, excellence, and a deep sense of purpose. Their contributions have strengthened agencies, elevated colleagues, and moved the mission of public service forward in meaningful ways. The 2026 Woman of the Year recipient will be announced live at the 40th Annual EWTG Professional Development Conference.
2026 EWTG Woman of the Year Nominees
Alida Bennett
Strategic Leader & Dedicated EWTG Contributor | Texas State Government
Dr. Ceci Gomez
Education Champion & Public Policy Leader | Secondary Education
Sofine Lewis
Community-Centered Leader & Organizational Trailblazer | Municipal Government
Tiffany Maybank
Visionary Administrator & Empowering Mentor | Texas State Government
Chan McDermott, MPAff
Public Affairs Strategist & Policy Innovator | Texas State Government
Dr. Sharmila Pathikonda
Academic Leader & Public Service Innovator | Higher Education
Teneisha Wilson
Transformational Leader & Advocate for Women in Government | Texas State Government
On the morning of Monday, November 9, we will gather to announce the 2026 Woman of the Year—a moment of celebration, inspiration, and sisterhood at the heart of our annual gathering.
These seven remarkable nominees have each demonstrated what it means to lead with courage, serve with dedication, and lift others along the way. Come celebrate them in person, honor their incredible achievements, and join a community that believes deeply in the power of women in public service.
Submitted by Dr. Carole Egele
EWTG Woman of the Year Conference Committee Chair, 2026
Membership News
Happy Hour Networking Event
EWTG is excited to announce our next Happy Hour Networking Event. Mark your calendars, gather your colleagues, and get ready for an evening designed to spark connection, conversation, and collaboration.
Event Details
- Thursday, October 8
- 5:00–7:00 p.m.
- Austin Beerworks — 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX
Austin Beerworks offers the perfect backdrop for relaxed networking: spacious seating, great drinks, and an atmosphere that makes it easy to meet new faces and reconnect with familiar ones. Whether you’re a long‑time member or exploring EWTG for the first time, this event is built for you.
- Build new connections with women leading across agencies.
- Share ideas and learn what others are working on.
- Invite colleagues who might be curious about joining EWTG.
- Recharge in a welcoming, low‑pressure environment.
- Bring someone new.
One of the best ways to grow our community is through personal invitation. If you know someone who’s been looking for a professional network that values leadership, learning, and service, this is the perfect event to introduce them to EWTG.
We Can’t Wait to See You There
Let’s kick off October with good conversations, good company, and the kind of energy that carries us into the rest of the year with purpose.
Submitted by Monica Dirba
EWTG Engagement Director, 2026
Attention Students!
EWTG’s new Student Membership is designed for students who want to start building their professional foundation now — not after graduation. Student members gain access to mentorship from Texas agency leaders, hands‑on committee experience, statewide networking events, and a community that believes in lifting emerging professionals into their future careers. If you want to learn more, the Happy Hour Networking Event is a great way to meet members and see if this organization is right for you.
Submitted by Lucie Prieto
EWTG Membership Director, 2026
New Member Orientation
Are you a new EWTG member but don’t know where to begin? We’ve got you covered with our New Member Orientation scheduled for November 16 from 12:00–1:00 p.m. to cover just that topic.
Our Engagement Committee members will introduce themselves and walk you through EWTG’s mission and background, the various EWTG committees, Success Teams, and comprehensive resources available on our new website. You can ask as many questions as you have in an open, informative forum. This should help you determine next steps.
A Zoom meeting registration link will be sent out soon. This briefing is open to all EWTG members who want to get more actively involved in EWTG activities, as well as those interested in joining EWTG.
Submitted by Monica Dirba
EWTG Engagement Director, 2026
Get Involved
Register for EWTG’s Pre-Conference Networking Workshop
Networking is an important way to strengthen your professional network and move your career forward. It can also be intimidating! As you prepare to attend EWTG’s Annual Professional Development Conference, join us for a workshop on networking basics on Thursday, October 15, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. via Zoom.
We are also looking for a few seasoned EWTG members to share their thoughts on networking during the event. If you are interested, email us at communications@ewtg.org.
Register for this workshop to strengthen your networking skills and improve your confidence!
Submitted by Sarah Melecki
EWTG Professional Development Director, 2026
Community Service Committee Activities
Central Texas Mobile Food Bank Distribution
Six EWTG members and supporters had the joy of volunteering with the Central Texas Mobile Food Bank at Del Valle High School on Saturday, September 19. Volunteers began the morning by helping with the event setup, sorting, and assembling food boxes, and then helped distribute food boxes to over 100 families in need. The event was a huge success! Thank you to Coleen and her husband Sean, Yvonne, Krystle, and my daughter Lilly for generously giving their time and helping make the event a success
Sign Up for the EWTG Blood Drive on October 10
EWTG members are invited to participate in our upcoming community service event on October 10 for a blood donation drive at We Are Blood (North Lamar Donor Center at 4300 N. Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756). Please sign up to donate blood here: October 10th Blood Drive Sign Up! We will also partner with the Pizza My Heart Success Team and join them for pizza at noon at All Day Pizza for a replenishing meal.
Toiletry Collection for SAFE Alliance at Annual Conference
The Community Service Committee is also proud to partner with SAFE Alliance for our Annual Toiletry Drive during the 2026 Professional Development Conference. All conference attendees are encouraged to collect toiletries such as travel-sized items, including but not limited to shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, hair care products, feminine products, and lotion. Items must be brought to the conference and dropped off at the designated collection area on November 8-9, at Kalahari Resorts and Convention.
The Community Service Committee is actively identifying and coordinating volunteer opportunities that encourage members to get involved, connect, and help meet community needs. The Committee invites EWTG members to come together in service, leadership, and purpose. Through meaningful volunteer opportunities, members can strengthen their leadership skills, build lasting partnerships, and make a positive difference in the lives of others. As women leaders in government, we have the ability to create movement beyond our daily work by showing up, serving with intention, and supporting the communities where we live and serve. Together, we can turn compassion into action and continue building a committee that is community-focused, action-oriented, and inspired by collective service.
EWTG members are welcome to serve on the committee and are encouraged to participate in community service activities. The committee meets monthly on the third Tuesday. The next meeting will be on October 19, at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom.
For more Community Service activities and meeting information, email the communication mailbox at communications@ewtg.org.
Submitted by Kimberly McConic
EWTG Community Service Committee Chair, 2026
Holiday Luncheon
SAVE THE DATE! On December 3 from 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., we’ll be hosting our annual holiday luncheon at Maggiano’s Little Italy in the Austin domain.
Please plan to join us for food, fun, and social connections. We’ll provide more details in our November newsletter. Stay tuned for the registration link, as this luncheon will be capped at 50 participants, and is open to EWTG members and non-members.
Submitted by Monica Dirba
EWTG Engagement Director, 2026
Events & Announcements
October Birthdays
Shelli Belser, Robin Cadle, Brenda Ford, Gloria Gomez, Raette Hearne, Roberta Hernandez, Michael Jackson, Karen Johnson, Lerrin Johnson, Vanessa Kenon, Sherry Melecki, Jennifer Moussa, Bianca Rawlings, Teresa Rosales, Clarette Walker, Cherilyn Young
We wish you all a wonderful celebration!
Save the Date
October 1, 6:00 p.m. – Shooting Stars Success Team [Learn More]
October 2, 12:00 p.m. – North Affiliate Virtual Discussion [Learn More]
October 8, 5:00 p.m. – Happy Hour Networking Event [Learn More]
October 10, – Community Service Committee Blood Drive [Learn More]
October 10, 12:00 p.m. – Pizza My Heart Success Team [Learn More]
October 14, 12:00 p.m. – Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone Mini Course [Learn More]
October 14, 12:00 p.m. – Brazos Valley Affiliate In-Person Event [Learn More]
October 15, 6:00 p.m. - Pre-Conference Networking Workshop [Learn More]
October 20, 5:30 p.m. – Procurement and Contracting Success Team [Learn More]
October 31 – Deadline to submit scholarship application for Leadership Texas [Learn More]
November 4, 5:30 p.m. – Book Club Success Team [Learn More]
November 8, 6:30 p.m. – We Lead Success Team [Learn More]
November 8–9 – 40th Annual Professional Development Conference [Learn More]
November 16, 12:00 p.m. – New Member Orientation [Learn More]
December 1, 12:00 p.m. – Project Management Success Team [Learn More]
December 3, 11:30 a.m. – Holiday Luncheon [Learn More]
December 5, 11:00 a.m. – Go Anyway Brunch Bunch [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.