About Us

Who We Are

International Women's Forum

The International Women’s Forum of Colorado unites women leaders of Colorado who represent the highest levels of professional accomplishments and leadership. IWF Colorado is part of the larger global organization of the International’s Women’s Forum whose membership includes more than 7,000 diverse, high-achieving and accomplished women from 33 nations on six continents.

IWF Colorado members are recognized throughout Colorado as key influencers, innovators, policy makers, thought leaders, and icons across industries, sectors, states, and countries. Through their association, members support and empower women in Colorado and beyond, engaging through social networking, professional development, educational exchange, and forging lasting friendships.

IWF Colorado is dedicated to building a vibrant, equitable, diverse and inclusive Colorado community of distinguished women through global conferences, local programs and special events. The Association strives to attract and promote highly successful women in Colorado from diverse fields. We express our purpose by following these values:

  • Leadership: Inspiring others to act together to accomplish important goals wherein the power of many is augments the effort of one.
  • Diversity: Understanding, appreciating, embracing, and championing individuals and their differences to demonstrate that every person matters.
  • Integrity: Acting with honesty and ethics in alignment with personal and group values.
  • Mentoring and Cultivating: Guiding and supporting, other women so that they too can have lasting impact from their contributions to society and beyond.

IWF Colorado History

IWF Colorado was chartered in 1976 as the second forum to be established by the International Women’s Forum.  Today IWF has grown to include 74 forums of 7,000 select members from 33 nations across six continents.

2025 Board of Directors

Helen Atkeson
President

Patty Fontneau
Vice President

Dessa Bokides
Treasurer

Elaine Torres
Secretary

Vanecia Kerr
Membership
Co-Chair

Cathy Lucas
Membership
Co-Chair

Kristin Waters
Program Co-Chair

Marla Williams
Senior Board Advisor

Kristin Bronson
Program Co-Chair

Jeanne Saunders
Past President & IWF 2026 Conference Co-Chair

Angela Baier
Dine Around Chair

Barbara Faulkenberry
IWF 2026 Conference Co-Chair

Barbara Grogan
IWF Global Liaison

New Member Selection Process

IWF Colorado strives to reflect the demographics of Colorado through a membership body of women leaders who represent diverse industries, ages, and ethnicity.

Existing IWF Colorado members nominate accomplished women leaders in their fields. The Membership Committee convenes to evaluate the nominations, focused on ensuring diverse backgrounds, achievements, recognitions, and leadership. IWF Colorado seeks women who have demonstrated abilities to:

  • Contribute positively to the Colorado community
  • Influence outcomes within the state, region, nation, and/or world
  • Further the development of women

Candidates are formally reviewed by the Membership Committee and approved by the Board of Directors before being invited to join.