1. Preeminence : Demonstrated preeminence within one’s industry or subcategory. Nominees with clear prominence and a strong trajectory toward preeminence may also be considered, particularly when their impact advances the goals of representative and diverse membership.
2. Sphere of Influence : Influence beyond one’s own organization or industry, including leadership roles on boards, associations, or civic entities, as well as recognized thought leadership or community impact.
3. Professional Diversity : The nominee’s industry or subcategory should meaningfully contribute to the Forum’s goal of professional diversity. The 2026/2027 cycle will prioritize exceptional nominees from the business/commercial sectors.
4. Representative Membership : The nominee’s background should strengthen representative membership across sectors, age, race/ethnicity, geography, and lived experience.

Additional Considerations

• IWF Southern California – Trusteeship serves Ventura, Santa Barbara, Orange, San Diego, Inland Empire, Riverside, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties. Membership should, over time, reflect the population size, and employer presence & overall diversity of these regions.
• With 46% of members ages 56+, the Forum prioritizes attracting exceptional members under age 55 to ensure long-term sustainability and relevance. This priority aligns with IWF Global.

As a reminder, please do not tell your suggested person that she will be nominated. We are simply asking for your suggestions at this point. Even when you are requested to complete a nomination form (between April 1 and April 30) please note that nomination is not a guarantee of membership. The Membership Committee will meet to consider each nomination carefully and with confidentiality and respect. For now, simply send us suggested name/s and affiliation information.