We Mourn the Passing of Pamela Prince-Eason

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Pamela Prince-Eason (pictured), a visionary leader, tireless advocate, and transformative force in the advancement of women’s business development in USA.

As President and CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) for more than a decade, Pamela dedicated her life to lifting women business owners up to unimaginable heights and building bridges through every connection she made.

Our condolences and love go out to Pamela's family at this sorrowful time. 

Rest in Power (RIP) dear Pamela.  May the lord receive you in the same fashion you received us – with energy, enthusiasm and care.

I Don’t See the Point of Going Around in Circles Once I Know the Answer!

Anyone else feel this way? I know I have at times.  Let's put it into context:

Maria was the CEO of a rapidly growing tech startup in the genomics space. She was curious, confident, open to new ideas, and comfortable being challenged by her team—all qualities that had helped her build the company from nothing into a 30-person organization with millions of dollars in venture capital funding and a consumer-facing product about to be released. And yet, even as things seemed to be going exceptionally well, key leaders were starting to leave—and the board brought in a clinical psychologist to figure out what was going on.

When Maria received feedback, she said, "“My ability to make decisions is a strength. And they’re good decisions! I don’t see the point of going around in circles once I know the answer!”

Well not everyone is perfect.  Learn more of how Maria's strengths turned into weaknesses.  Every gift has a curse.

Women Have Been at the Forefront of Innovation and Business Success Throughout History

From trailblazers like Estée Lauder and Coco Chanel, to modern-day leaders like Indra Nooyi and Sophia Amoruso, women have been at the forefront of innovation and business success throughout history.

Despite facing systemic barriers and discrimination, women, like many WPO members, have continued to break through glass ceilings and pave the way for future generations. 

Explore and celebrate these women entrepreneurs who have left a lasting impact in our business world.

WPO Chicago I Member Ellen Wheeler Is Nationally Ranked in Chambers USA 2025 for Derivatives Enforcement

We are thrilled to announce that WPO Chicago I member Ellen Wheeler, Partner, Foley & Lardner has been nationally ranked in Chambers USA 2025 for Derivatives Enforcement.  "Grateful to my clients for their trust and support and proud to celebrate this alongside my many other colleagues who were recognized," says Ellen.

We are proud of longstanding WPO Chicago member Ellen Wheeler and wish her many more accolades in the future for her important work.

Learn more on Foley’s 2025 Chambers rankings - https://lnkd.in/g9G5ExdS

WPO Chicago's Host Foley & Lardner Opens New Nashville, TN Office

WPO Chicago host Foley & Lardner LLP recently announced the opening of its newest office in Nashville, Tenn., with the addition of three corporate partners to support the firm’s growing Health Care & Life Sciences and Manufacturing Sectors. The location is Foley’s 27th office worldwide and 24th within the United States. 

New partners Jesse Neil, Brent Bowman, and Jon Gaston join the firm from Holland & Knight LLP. The group advises clients on a variety of regulatory, transactional, and tax issues. Additionally, two Foley litigation partners, Kevin Hyde and Lauren Loew [WPO Chicago II chapter member, pictured], will work from Nashville to help establish and grow the office. 

Read the news release here.  Our congratulations to Lauren!  We are so proud of you.

WPO: The 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies

©2025 Laurel J. Delaney.  All rights reserved.

"The 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies list honors the remarkable accomplishments of women who are not only driving impressive revenue growth but also redefining the future of business,” said Camille Burns (second from left), CEO of the Women Presidents Organization. 

“Their leadership demonstrates the profound economic and societal impact of women at the helm. With a strong commitment to innovation, purpose, and people, these companies exemplify the essential role women-owned and led businesses play in building a more sustainable and inclusive economy. This recognition is more than a milestone—it’s a powerful affirmation of the transformative influence women have in shaping modern business.”

Read more here.  Full list of winners can be found here.

Presidents Turn to Music to Calm a Nation

On Memorial Day, between the flags and parades, we have an opportunity—to remember those we've lost and to reflect on what brings us together.

In times of national grief or uncertainty, music has often been the thread that stitches people back into community.

Some of our greatest American leaders knew this. Long before neuroscience could explain it, presidents were turning to music to steady a nation, calm collective nerves, and kindle hope.

Today, on Memorial Day, I invite you to use music to connect across generations and reflect with purpose.