Dear WiNUP Members/Colleagues,
WINNING — Together
As we continue building on our themes of Welcome and Wisdom, this edition turns toward something that defines not just what we do, but who we are: Winning.
In WiNUP, winning isn’t about outpacing one another—it’s about lifting one another, celebrating progress, and moving forward as a united, supportive community. Our success is shared, and our momentum is collective.
Because the truth is simple and powerful:
When we support each other, volunteer together, learn together, grow together, and encourage one another to step into new roles, every one of us contributes to a win that strengthens the entire organization.
There is so much positive movement happening across our network, and every member has a place in the wins ahead.
Energy is already building for this year’s Annual Conference—one of WiNUP’s most anticipated and inspiring events. It’s a place where we celebrate achievements, learn from leading voices in our industry, and connect with members from across the country. Whether you plan to attend, volunteer, or help behind the scenes, your involvement helps make the conference a true highlight of the year. Join us! Indianapolis, September 20-23, 2026!
Our WiNUP 101 session continued to empower both new and long‑standing members with helpful insight into how to get the most from your membership. This session strengthens our foundation by making sure every member feels equipped to participate and succeed.
Across all regions, chapters are hosting networking opportunities, workshops, service projects, and professional development events. These local programs are where relationships grow and where many members find their first sense of WiNUP community.
Service is at the heart of WiNUP.
This year’s Day of Caring is another chance to give back, partner with fellow members, and demonstrate our shared commitment to the communities we serve. During the month of May, get involved with your chapter and give back to your local community.
Career growth is winning, too. WiNUP continues to offer webinars, leadership talks, mentoring connections, and skill-building opportunities to help every member move confidently toward personal and professional goals. Check out the event calendar for up-to-date programming opportunities! We are excited to support 15 WiNUP members with our mentoring program this year!
Scholarships, grants, and recognition awards are open applications. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to apply, this is it. These programs exist to highlight excellence, support growth, and invest in our members. If not applicable to you, encourage others!
Leadership opportunities are also on the horizon. EC nominations are open, offering members a chance to influence WiNUP’s direction and help guide our future. If you’ve ever felt called to serve, this is your moment to explore it.
Every success in WiNUP, big or small, is built on the encouragement, collaboration, and contributions of our members.
As we look ahead to the opportunities of this year, I encourage you to:
- Support someone new
- Attend an upcoming event
- Celebrate a colleague’s accomplishment
- Apply for a grant, award, or leadership opportunity
- Step out of your comfort zone
- Reach out and connect with fellow members
- Encourage others to do the same
Thank you for the energy, commitment, and heart you bring to WiNUP. Let’s make this a season of shared victories, strengthened connections, and community-wide growth.
Here’s to a year of winning…together.
With gratitude and excitement,
Kristin J. Duggins
2026 WiNUP President