Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/948966
march 2018 / the tasting panel / 87 march 2018 / the tasting panel / 87 Steve Harden, Vice President–General Manager of CA, SGWS; Annette Alvarez-Peters, Assistant Vice President/GMM, Beverage Alcohol, Costco Wholesale; Frank Santangelo, Vice President–Director of Chains, SGWS of Southern California. A vision board at the event provided inspiration, empowerment, and encouragement. encourage the advancement of women at Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits through various networking, recognition, and educa- tional opportunities." In furthering this mission, SGWS has built an extensive network of driven, passionate women focused on delivering critical company initiatives and exceeding supplier and cus- tomer expectations (the group has also made philanthropy a priority by collaborating with area charities). As the night unfolded—with laughter, goodwill, and, of course, many toasts—it was obvious to see that as their numbers grow, this impressive contingent will need a larger venue in the years to come. "Women in Wine & Spirits is a forum for like-minded professional women at SGWS to come together to connect, network, mentor, and collaborate on all things that relate to our wine and spirits world. We also work together to benefit the community through donation drives and charity events sponsored by SGWS and Women in Wine & Spirits. Personally, it is the support system the event naturally fosters that is the most important aspect for me. This group is empowering and allows us to strengthen our ties and expand our knowledge base, which helps grow our diverse leadership team at SGWS." —Corey Cline, Smart&Final Account Manager "Being a part of Women in Wine & Spirits is an amazing oppor- tunity to share my passion and experience with up-and-coming women in the industry. My motto is 'be kind, be humble, be great!'" —Sharon Brawner, Broad Market Sales Manager "Being a part of Women in Wine & Spirits has not only opened my eyes to what our company has to offer, but has given me mentors. This group is empowering, charitable, and knows how to have a good time while expanding our wine and spirit knowledge. My first event was the Christmas dinner in 2016. Hearing the speeches of how passionate and career-driven these women are was incredible. I hope to inspire whomever I cross paths with as these women have done for me!" —Brissa Lowery, Southern Division District Manager "I am honored to say I work for a company that invests in their people and supports initiatives such as Women in Wine & Spirits in Southern California. The annual holiday dinner is the one time a year we are all able to get together, and it is so impactful and inspiring to watch the group grow so significantly year after year, from 40 to 140 women involved in the past five years! It continues to give me hope for the industry's future and evolution in the years to come." —Nikki Mason, American Wine & Spirits Account Executive "Right after college, I moved to California from Texas to work for Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits. When I moved to L.A. I did not know anyone, and I can say that I have built my family around Women in Wine & Spirits. I have been introduced to so many incredible women and mentors who have helped and guided me throughout the past year and a half. Being surrounded by an amazing group of women inspires and motivates me daily to be successful and grow my career here at SGWS." —Adriana Garza, Chain Sales–Coastal Division & Beverly Hills What the Stars Say