Rockford Network of Professional Women

In March 1981, four Rockford women met to discuss how women in the Rock River Region could join forces in support of other women. From this meeting, the concept of the Rockford Network of Professional Women (RNPW) evolved. Those four women were Mildred Berry, Barbara Chapman, Marcella Harris, and Jeanine Wortmann. Weekly organizational meetings were held with attendance increasing steadily. Standing rules were formulated and the Rockford Network of Professional Women became official in June 1981. RNPW Purpose To encourage women to attain leadership roles in the immediate and expanded community and to provide the preparatory training and the support that wil enable them to perform effectively. To provide an appropriate and needed forum for corporate and professional women to give and seek help in the advancement of their careers. To provide job-related support. To develop an information base for civic, professional, and personal pursuits.