Betsy Barnich, President of PWCC, speaking at the 2025 September Luncheon.

By: Betsy Barnich, President of PWCC

What does it mean to belong to a community that lifts you up, challenges you to grow, and makes you feel seen and supported? I believe that kind of community is not only possible, but is also essential. As I step into the role of President for the 2025–26 year, I am filled with gratitude for the foundation we have built together and am energized by the possibilities ahead.

Over the past few years, PWCC has gained tremendous momentum post-pandemic. Our programs have grown, our connections have deepened, and our presence in Chicago’s professional landscape has become stronger than ever. Now, is the time to take that energy and channel it into bold, intentional action. This year, our Board of Directors is focusing on three key areas that will guide our work and set us up for lasting impact: financial sustainability, membership growth, and expanding reach and diversity.

Let me share a bit about what each of these goals means and how you can be part of shaping PWCC’s future.

Financial Sustainability

PWCC is powered by the dedication of our members and volunteers, but financial sustainability is what allows us to keep moving forward with confidence and ambition. This year, we are committed to:

Expanding sponsorship opportunities that align with our mission
Building partnerships that bring both financial and strategic value
Enhancing our financial planning to ensure we are investing wisely in our future

This is about more than just dollars; it is about ensuring we have the resources to serve our members with excellence, create high-impact programming, and remain a thriving hub for professional women across Chicago.

Membership Growth

Our community is the heart of PWCC. The more voices we bring to the table, the stronger, more vibrant, and more valuable our network becomes. This year, we are focused on:

Growing our membership by reaching new audiences and industries
Creating meaningful experiences that keep members engaged
Strengthening our onboarding process to welcome new members with clarity and connection
Encouraging members to invite colleagues, friends, and peers to experience PWCC

Every new member brings fresh ideas, perspectives, and energy. Together, we can grow in ways that benefit every individual and our community as a whole.

Expanding Reach and Diversity

PWCC’s mission has always been to provide connections that support, enrich and inspire women to advance professionally and personally. To truly live that mission, we must continue expanding who we reach and how we include them. This means:

Creating programming that reflects a wide range of experiences, identities, and industries
Partnering with organizations that help us tap into new communities and career stages
Amplifying diverse voices within our membership, leadership, and speaker lineups
Ensuring that all who engage with PWCC feel welcomed, valued, and heard

When we expand our reach and deepen our commitment to diversity, we build a richer, more inclusive community and one that I believe reflects the true strength of professional women across our city.

Looking Ahead

These goals are not just strategic priorities, they are a reflection of who we are and who we want to be. They are rooted in our values, inspired by our members, and designed to ensure PWCC remains a welcoming space for years to come.

As we move through this year, I invite you to be part of this journey:

Attend a PWCC event and bring someone new with you
Join a committee and lend your time and talents
Share your ideas and feedback so we can continue to grow together
Support our sponsors and help us build new partnerships

Together, we are not only building a stronger PWCC, but we are shaping the future of leadership, connection, and community for professional women across Chicagoland. I hope our paths cross soon at the upcoming event. I would love the opportunity to say hello.

About the Author

Betsy Barnich has been an integral part of the FOCUS Training team since 2005, assuming the role of Director of Business Development in 2022. She excels in cultivating partnerships and executing strategic initiatives with their partners to foster organizational growth and leadership development through tailored professional development programs. Betsy also leads a dedicated team responsible for implementing marketing and branding strategies for corporate program offerings. Known for her ability to connect with others on a personal level, she is recognized as a collaborative team player and strategic partner. Beyond her professional endeavors, Betsy is deeply committed to philanthropy, actively engaging in community service initiatives throughout Chicago. She serves as the current President of the Board of Directors for the Professional Women's Club of Chicago and contributes her expertise to the Workforce and Talent Council for the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.