Rita's devotion to women grew out of her own loss of direction and need for guidance and sisterhood early in her life. As a result, she joined consciousness raising groups years ago, then NOW and finally different women's circles for the last 20 years. There she received the support, validation, safety and encouragement that she needed.

Being part of the EWL board is a natural step in her life's path. The women in her life have mentored her over and over again and empowered her to bring the very best of herself to the world. Being part of EWL gives her the opportunity to contribute to other women those gifts that were bestowed on her for so many years.

Rita is the founder and a partner of YES & Company, brings over 25 years of in-depth experience as a management consultant. Her education in Social Work and Psychology at San Diego State University gave her a strong foundation in what it takes to work with people successfully. However, it was managing large departments and regional offices of a global training and development firm that honed her specialty in coaching and developing effective partnerships at home, at work and in the community.