I am both humbled and honored to serve as President of The WICT Network: Southeast. As I step into this role, I am deeply inspired by the strength, resilience, and excellence of our members. Together, we built powerful momentum in 2025, and I am energized by the opportunities ahead in 2026. As our industry continues to evolve, our role as WICT leaders is to ensure our members are not only prepared to navigate change—but empowered to lead it, advance their careers, and shape the future of media, entertainment, and technology.

 

For my leadership term, I have chosen Inspire as our guiding touchstone. Inspiration is central to The WICT Network’s mission of advancing women and men as leaders and driving inclusion across our industry. It comes to life through mentorship, sponsorship, shared experiences, and the confidence we gain when we see what is possible for ourselves and others. My vision is to cultivate impactful, confident leaders who uplift one another and lead with purpose.

 

This year, our chapter programming will be intentionally aligned with WICT’s national priorities. Through leadership-focused sessions, we will develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in a rapidly changing world. These experiences will balance technical innovation with the human-centered skills that define great leaders.

 

We will also continue to foster connection, well-being, and community, recognizing that sustainable leadership requires holistic support. Signature initiatives—including the WICT WalkStar 5K, wellness programming, and membership mixers—will strengthen relationships, promote whole-person success, and create meaningful opportunities for collaboration and advancement.

 

In alignment with WICT’s focus on career sustainability, our Transition Support Group will serve as a trusted resource for members navigating career change, offering connection, encouragement, and guidance during pivotal moments. 

 

Finally, we will continue to gain, develop and strengthen partnerships. By collaborating with other professional organizations and deepening existing relationships through annual reviews and joint-benefit initiatives, we will maximize our collective impact and expand opportunities for our members.

 

Together—aligned with The WICT Network’s national vision and inspired by one another—we will continue to rise, adapt, and lead with courage, purpose, and heart.

 

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and to walk alongside you on this journey. Here’s to an inspiring 2026—and to all that we will accomplish together.

 

Lynnette Smith

2026 President, The WICT Network: Southeast