Another incredible WISE Annual Meeting is in the books!
This year’s virtual gathering brought together hundreds of professionals from around the world, making it one of our most energizing events yet.
We kicked things off with a powerful fireside conversation featuring Laysha Ward, guided beautifully by our own Jac Ross.
Our Chair, Katie Blohowiak, shared a thoughtful look back at WISE’s 2025 milestones and the momentum we’re carrying into 2026.
We honored Shannen Bornsen, MBA, a WISE champion from the very beginning, with the Volunteer of the Year award. So well deserved.
We also recognized the remarkable contributions of Mary Conwell as she wraps up her board service.
And, we were thrilled to officially welcome our newest board members, Kim Coovert and Kyle Zofinski, who are already bringing fresh energy and ideas to our future direction.
Another amazing highlight: celebrating this year’s outstanding TWISB nominees, whose accomplishments continue to elevate women in the store brands industry!
Congratulations to:
Lauren Poisson, Heather Warthen, Christina Manipon, Shawn Ahlgren, April Edmonson, Lisa Taylor, Zorayda Garcia, Sherri Olson, Rhonda Frudd, and Marlo Aning Lanahan.
A huge THANK YOU to every attendee, presenter, and sponsor who helped make this event such a success. Your engagement and support fuel everything we do.
Now, we shift into in-person mode! Our Cocktail Reception is happening this Sunday, and we’re gearing up for an exciting week at PLMA - Private Label Manufacturers Association. Come visit us at booth hashtag#F2008! We can’t wait to connect with you!
Cheers to another amazing Sunset Cocktail Reception!
Our Sunset Cocktail Reception was another incredible success! With attendance continuing to grow, we moved this year’s event to a beautiful new venue at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, where we welcomed hundreds of private label industry leaders for an evening of connection and celebration.
The night was filled with meaningful networking, great conversations, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of laughter. We are deeply grateful for the continued support from our partners, sponsors, and members throughout the past 13 years.
Thank you to everyone who joined us! Your energy made the evening truly special. We’re already excited for next year’s gathering!
Also, a special THANK YOU to our dedicated Events Committee for making this year’s reception the best yet.
Here are a few snapshots from the night!
