About Us

Herstory

“PWNO is a friendship network for professional women who are passionate about their work.”

– Alice
Member since 1987

The Professional Women’s Network of Oregon (PWNO) grew out of the civil rights’ and women’s movements of the 1960s and 1970s. PWNO was chartered in June 1981, a time when a woman was unable to get a business loan without a co-signature from a man. The organization was originally an attempt to replicate the networking groups that were almost exclusively available to men and to provide women with equal access to business and political opportunities. 

Over the years, PWNO has demonstrated resilience and responsiveness to changing times. As the professional environment for women keeps evolving, so does PWNO. The organization continues to grow, change, and adapt— just as many of us do in everyday life. The current and future needs of members and of professional women in general have remained the primary focus of PWNO. While the mission statement has changed over time, the core values of PWNO remain, “Through friendship, sharing, and support, we empower and celebrate women’s diversity and success in business, community and life.” PWNO welcomes and invites women in all stages of their lives and careers to join together to support, nurture and inspire one another.

PWNO is the combined voice of its members throughout herstory. We hope you will join us and share your story.