Our mission is to champion and elevate accomplished women leaders. Our members know that together we are stronger. We inspire one another, advance our organizations and strengthen our communities.

In 1980 TEMPO Madison was created to break down barriers and unite women executives within a single community in order to:

• Make them and others more influential by supporting and empowering one another (champion)
• Draw attention to the pool of talented and accomplished women working in the community (elevate)
• Make TEMPO Madison itself a power in the community, thereby making it easier for each of its members to attain positions of power and influence in the community

TEMPO Madison is here today because of three local women – Boo Henderson, Sue Riordan and Barb Miller. They decided to do something about the phenomenon they had observed, namely, that most women, regardless of talent, competence or position, were outside the Madison power structure—outside looking in that is.

Today, TEMPO Madison is 230+ women strong and getting stronger and bolder every day. Our members lead companies, direct teams, own businesses, and lead within state and local governments. We are a growing network of diverse, high-performing women who care about the future of all women and who seek to lead remarkable careers.

Together we are working toward a vision where women leaders hold an equal place in leadership, policy and decision making in our society. We are not there yet. There is certainly more work to be done, and we are working to make it happen.

In addition, the TEMPO Madison Foundation, Inc. is a separate 501 (c) 3 tax-exempt organization that works to support future generations of women leaders. The Foundation handles all philanthropic efforts related to TEMPO of Madison's mission, which includes awarding need-based scholarships to graduating high school seniors and grants to support the advancement of professional women.

The TEMPO membership nomination process ensures that our selected members are established and accomplished leaders with proven abilities and a shared vision.

Key Initiatives and Programming

• Monthly luncheons at the Madison Club featuring speakers who are leaders in business, non-profits, academia and the community
• Leadership Series focusing on professional development and bringing up the next generation of women leaders.
• Women on Boards initiative to get more women on corporate and non-profit boards through preparation and advocacy.
• Networking events to facilitate connections among members and other community organizations.
• Internally – new position for full time Executive Director with PT admin