Founder of the Women Presidents Organization, Dr. Marsha Firestone, passed away peacefully in her home on December 7, 2025. I extend my condolences to her son Daren, daughter-in-law Nicole, her two grandkids and other extended family members.
Dr. Marsha Firestone founded the WPO in 1997 after previously serving as Vice President of Women Inc. and as Vice President of Training and Counseling at the American Woman’s Economic Development Corporation (AWED). In 2003, she was appointed to the National Women's Business Council. She is the author of The Busy Woman’s Guide to Successful Self-Employment, has published research in business and educational journals, and is a frequent guest speaker. Dr. Firestone earned her PhD in Communication from Columbia University and is an expert in adult learning theory, nonverbal communication, and managerial competency.
Having served on the WPO Board years ago and as WPO's Chapter Chair since 2003, I came to know Marsha very well. She truly embodied everything others have fondly recalled – a fearless leader, visionary, trailblazer, tireless worker, and passionate advocate for women business owners.
Writing a blog for WPO Chicago since 2003, I was able to search Marsha's name to see how many times I wrote about her. This gives you a sampling here – certainly worth the journey. A couple of the links no longer are active because they go back to 2005, when many media companies scrub old articles.
And the CEO of WPO, Camille Burns, writes a beautiful tribute about Marsha on LinkedIn here.
Her legacy will live on in all of us. I am grateful to have known her. Rest in peace Marsha, deservedly so.
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