NYWICI March President’s Letter
The Butterfly Effect: Step Into the Room

March in New York feels like momentum.

On March 26, we gather for the Beverly Wettenstein “New York Experience” — a reminder that opportunity in this city is rarely accidental. It is built through access, courage, and conversation. And as we move closer to the Matrix Awards on May 19, we are reminded of something even bigger: what happens when women not only enter rooms — but shape them.

This month’s prompt is simple:

Who are the three women you admire — and what’s stopping you from reaching toward them?

For me, the list is bold.

The first is Gloria Steinem — our very first Matrix Award honoree and one of the most legendary trailblazers on the planet. To stand at the center of the feminist movement at a time when women were marginalized both at home and in the workplace — and to help redefine what was possible — is nothing short of extraordinary. Her ripple effect continues to shape every woman who steps onto a stage like ours.

The second is Dana Walden. She began her career in television publicity, working on The Arsenio Hall Show, and today serves as Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment — sitting atop the leadership team at one of the largest and most influential media companies in the world. That trajectory alone is a masterclass in strategic growth, resilience, and reinvention. She doesn’t know me — yet — but she is someone I’ve quietly admired throughout my career. One day, I fully intend to fan-girl over her in person.

The third is Jessica Tisch, the current Commissioner of the NYPD. I recently saw her giving a press conference moments before I boarded the Shuttle to Times Square. I stopped in my tracks. I could only imagine the weight she carries as a woman leading one of the most complex institutions in the world. Yet she is making measurable strides — improving quality of life and strengthening safety across our city. She is a force. And I have no doubt her leadership trajectory is far from finished.

And there is a fourth woman I admire — even though she is no longer here with us — Beverly Wettenstein, a trailblazing journalist and deeply dedicated member of NYWICI. Her name on our March event is more than a tribute; it is a reminder that leadership leaves an imprint long after the work itself is done. The programs we produce, the conversations we spark, and the community we continue to build are part of that enduring legacy.

Here’s what these women have in common:

They stepped into rooms that were not necessarily designed for them — and they stayed.

As we prepare for the Beverly Wettenstein event — a celebration of that enduring impact — and as we look ahead to Matrix, I want each of us to ask:

Are we waiting for an invitation — or are we positioning ourselves to be undeniable?

This Month’s Challenge:

• Reach out to one woman you admire.
• Attend the Beverly Wettenstein event with intention — not just to listen, but to connect.
• Secure your seat at the Matrix Awards and imagine what’s possible when you see our honorees take the stage.

Because here’s the truth: the Matrix Awards are not just about celebrating achievement. They are about proximity to possibility. Sitting in that chair. Feeling the goosebumps. Watching a woman step to the podium and thinking, Why not me?

That is the Butterfly Effect.

One introduction.

One conversation.

One moment in a room that changes the trajectory of a career.

New York doesn’t reward hesitation. It rewards boldness.

I hope to see you on March 26. And I can’t wait to sit beside you on May 19 — in the room where it happens.

Here’s to making those bold connections and to the extraordinary possibilities ahead.

Beth Feldman
2026 New York Women in Communications (NYWICI) President