Sierra Nevada Region Conference

Nine members of Soroptimist International of Woodland attended the Soroptimist Sierra Nevada Region (SNR) Conference, held June 6–8, 2025, at the Atlantis Hotel in Reno, Nevada. Three of SI Woodland’s nine who attended were first time attendees (Lisa, Katherine, and Karisa). The event brought together 40 of the 46 clubs in the region. A total of 210 region attendees were reported.

The conference officially opened Friday afternoon. Delegates Lori Maloney, Lisa Shelley, and Silvia Guerrero attended a session reviewing proposed changes to the regional bylaws, which were scheduled for a vote the next day. Lori also participated in the Nominating Committee Forum, where she introduced herself, answered questions, and was elected unopposed to represent District 2 on the SNR Nominating Committee. Along with Jen Young, who now serves as SNR District 2 Director, SI Woodland will be well represented at the regional level this coming year.

Friday evening, attendees enjoyed a themed social event, “Pearls and PJs,” followed by a showing of Mamma Mia. The evening also included a “Dream Pillow” silent auction, where each club donated a handmade pillow representing their mission. SI Woodland’s pillow, created by Vicki Danzl, was a favorite. When Governor Stacy won it in the auction, she gifted it to SIA President Ginger Cole, a surprise to all of us who attended.

Saturday was filled with presentations, discussions, and networking. The keynote speaker was Ginger Cole, President of Soroptimist International of the Americas.

She spoke about how the organization must continue “Thriving Through Change” and remain focused on supporting women and girls through education, even as the world continues to change.

On Sunday, six regional Live Your Dream applicants were provided their regional LYD awards, and the conference members were surprised with exciting news. A regional Live Your Dream Award recipient from SI Elk Grove had been selected as a Federation-level awardee as well. In addition to her local and regional recognition, she received $11,000 to support her education and personal goals. Award recipients spoke to the conference attendees, sharing how Soroptimist support has made a difference in their lives and their families futures.

Sunday’s program concluded with the club awards ceremony. Soroptimist International of Woodland was honored with third place for the “Blanche Edgar Award for Expansion” in recognition of outstanding membership growth in the past year.

With this year's conference over, the SI Woodland members returned home with new ideas, renewed focus, and a strong sense of purpose. The club looks forward to continuing its mission in the upcoming year under the leadership of incoming president Karen Gossard, united in the spirit of “Pulling Together.