In December of 1975, 12 women met to form an association for women professionals in government relations. They saw a lack of mentors for women in the government relations space and held a common belief that as women they would benefit from
association with each other and from an entity specifically designed to guide them in their professional development.
By the end of that organizational meeting, Women in Government Relations was formally created, officers elected,
and a six-member board of directors appointed from among the founders. Membership qualifications were outlined, and a charter and by-laws developed. By February of 1976, two standing committees, programs and membership were operational;
and WGR held its first luncheon at the National Press Club.
During the first year of its existence, WGR sponsored 10 luncheon events and two all-day seminars featuring topics of special interest to career women in the field
of government affairs. Advancing up the corporate ladder, coordinating government affairs and public relations, risk taking in career planning, and the legislative agenda were among the sessions. Also, in its first year, the organization
introduced its first salary survey for women working in government relations. The results of the survey—shared with members and the community—helped shed a light on compensation in the industry.
In the summer of 1976, the WGR
Board reassessed the organization’s direction and the group began to mobilize in earnest. Between September and the end of the year, a publicity committee was added, the by-laws were amended, the newsletter expanded, the job bank established,
and two successful career development seminars were held.
The hard work of our founders came to fruition on February 28, 1977, when Women in Government Relations, Inc. was incorporated under the laws of the District of
Columbia as a non-profit educational organization, exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)6 of the Internal Revenue Code. As stated in the articles of incorporation, the organization was established to foster and encourage
the educational and professional development of women in the field of government relations.
WGR Founders
Nancy Benson
Gerrie Bjornson
Sarah Brite
Alexandra Cook
Susan Fridy
Lori Gribbin
Belva Jones
Judith Kudlow
Sheila Macdonald
Bettie McCarthy
Marilee Menard
