Past OWL Presidents’ Messages

2024 Expand and Empower

As my tenure as president draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude and appreciation to each one of you. Serving in this capacity over the past year has been an honor and privilege, and I have cherished the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and passionate group of women.

The mission we set out to accomplish this year was twofold: to fortify the strength and spirit of our existing members and to expand our community through genuine and lasting connections. I am proud to say that, with your collective efforts, we have achieved this. Our five annual luncheons and two mixers were not only occasions to share, learn, and network, but also celebrations of the progress we’ve made and the directions we are headed. Secondly, we centered our hearts and conversations around the theme of "Engagement".  How might we engage with this organization, with others, with ourselves?  

A special acknowledgement is due to the remarkable speakers who graced our events with their wisdom, insight, and experiences. Margie Jacinto of Oahu Publishing, your thoughts on engagement through community connection were invaluable and resonated deeply with our attendees. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, your commitment to women's leadership and empowerment has always been an inspiration. Julie Morikawa of ClimbHi, the depth of your insights and your dedication to positive change for our keikei and our business community are truly commendable. Tiera Covington of Integrated Facilities Services of Hawaii, your personal story of resilience and triumph through success is one I will always remember. Additionally, I'd like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Bennette Misalucha, Executive Director of Workforce Development, for her incredible message of hope for all professional women, especially immigrants.

To all our members, your involvement, enthusiasm, and support have been the backbone of our achievements. Every conversation, every shared story, and every connection made have contributed to our mission's success. As I pass the baton, I am confident that the Organization of Women Leaders will continue to thrive and reach greater heights because of the solid foundation we’ve built and the unity of our purpose.

In November, we will welcome a new president, Ananda (Chou) Ferreira, who has recruited a dynamic new board of directors, and we both look forward to your vote of approval for our last meeting of the year, Monday, November 13th, at the Halekulani Hotel.  Please go to the homepage of our website (www.owlhawaii.org) to register and enjoy the inspiring talk from our featured speaker, Dee Jay Mailer, CEO of Bishop Museum.  This year, we will change things up a bit and have a special host, emcee, and known news anchor and weatherman, Justin Cruz of KHON Channel 2. The afternoon will be fun, lively, and full of recognition as we celebrate the 38-year legacy of the Organization of Women Leaders.

In conclusion, thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of being your president. It was a journey filled with growth, challenges, successes, and, above all, unity. Let us continue to stand strong together, empowering one another and championing the cause of women in leadership.

With deepest gratitude,

 Cheryl A. Cross

President, Organization of Women Leaders (OWL) 2023