WP&D Committees

WP&D’s two new committees—the Events Committee and the Outreach Committee—offer a great opportunity to get involved, build valuable experience, and explore future leadership roles within the organization. Learn more about each committee below.

Events Committee

The Events Committee plays a vital role in bringing our events to life, lending support with planning, coordination, and day-of logistics. Their dedication and generous spirit make it all possible—we couldn't do it without our incredible volunteers. 


Maria Chicuen

Akshara Das

Erica Frazier

Irene Henry

Rachel Much

Kelsey Fawell

Outreach Committee

The Outreach Committee helps build meaningful partnerships by tapping into their own networks to secure sponsorships, promote our organization and events, and champion the mission of WP&D. We couldn’t do it without our amazing volunteers.


Akshara Das

Shaguni Gupta

Em Hall

Samantha Hendrickson

Janhavi Manjrekar

Consuelo Arguilles

Mayra Shuja

Emily Norkus

Want to Get Involved?


We welcome new committee members on a rolling basis! Explore the committee responsibilities below to learn more, and submit your interest using the form provided.


Submit Interest

Events Committee Responsibilities

Ideal For:

  • Someone passionate about collaborating with the Board of Directors to help bring our events to life.
  • No experience is necessary—just enthusiasm and interest in supporting WP&D’s mission!
  • Available to all WP&D members, including students. Not a member? Join today!


What You'll Do:

  • Assist with event tasks as needed. Events may include: WP&Drinks, Small Talks, Summer Picnic, Holiday Party, professional development events, etc.
  • Help promote events and increase attendance.
  • Research and suggest event venues.
  • Help with event setup, teardown, and day-of logistics.
  • Coordinate with vendors, especially small women- and minority-owned businesses.
  • Welcome guests at the sign-in table.
  • Solicit event sponsorships and donations for event giveaways.
  • Share ideas for topics or speakers for future events.


What to Expect:

  • Monthly meetings with the committee and a WP&D Board liaison.
  • Be an additional point of contact on event days.
  • Involvement for the calendar year is encouraged but not required.
  • Support the committee’s work in a way that aligns with your interests and availability.

Outreach Committee Responsibilities

Ideal For:

  • Someone passionate about growing WP&D’s network, building partnerships, and supporting our mission.
  • Established professionals with broad networks who want to help grow WP&D’s presence and influence.
  • Available to all WP&D members. Not a member? Join today!


What You'll Do:

  • Assist with outreach tasks as needed.
  • Solicit sponsorships to support WP&D’s initiatives.
  • Promote WP&D to current and prospective members.
  • Learn and apply marketing techniques to promote WP&D.
  • Leverage your network to expand WP&D’s reach.
  • Identify opportunities to collaborate with other organizations and industries.
  • Support efforts to advance women across planning and development fields.


What to Expect:

  • Monthly meetings with the committee and a board liaison.
  • Calendar-year involvement is encouraged but not required.
  • Support the committee’s work in a way that aligns with your interests and availability.

Questions & Comments

Email info@wpdchicago.com and a current board member will follow up with you.