About EWA
EWA was founded in 1979 for the purpose of affording mutual support; facilitating common education from sharing information, experience and ideas; enhancing the potential of women executives; enabling women to attain leadership positions in the community; and encouraging women to aspire to the highest career goals.
Membership is by invitation only. Nominations are accepted by current members in good standing, and no more than 10 candidates are permitted to join in any calendar year.
In order to qualify for membership, the nominee must satisfy a majority of the following criteria:
1. Clearly represent executive (senior) management;
2. Be directly involved in policy-making and/or have a direct influence on policy;
3. Be a key decision-maker;
4. Must have received significant recognition in her field;
5. Must maintain a strong community influence.
In addition, she must adhere to high ethical standards in professional and business practices.
Currently, EWA has 170 members. The group meets monthly at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Meetings include high profile speakers, who address subjects such as the Arts, Business, and History. We also host candidate forums for important elections.
In addition to regular meetings, we host frequent After Hours events. Past outings have included Wine on the Water at Sea Ray Boats, a walking tour of downtown lofts, plays at the Clarence Brown and Tennessee Theatre, and a visit to Richard Jolley’s Studio. Congratulatory receptions have been held for EWA members achieving significant milestones, such as: Joan Cronan, Mayor Madeline Rogero, and federal judge Pam Reeves.