Auction of Washington Wines
This project is about raising awareness and promoting Washington state’s flourishing wine industry while raising funds for partners such as Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Washington State University Viticulture & Enology Program. Under Sherri’s leadership as Executive Director, the organization grew from raising $1.4 million to over $4 million annually with a cumulative total raised of approximately $16 million over 8 years.
Her focus was on engaging the industry by creating more consumer facing opportunities and reaching outside of Washington state to bring new consumers in. This was accomplished by hosting multiple events over the course of three days which remains one of the industry’s largest events. Additionally, Sherri was responsible for leading the growth and development of the Board of Directors and writing the organization’s first 5-year strategic plan.
By the end of her tenure, the event was ranked as one of the Top 5 Wine Auctions by Wine Spectator Magazine and became known as one of the “must do” wine auctions in the country.
Sherri’s leadership of the auction was remarkable: steady, visionary and hard working. She led our efforts with purpose and inspiration, representing our organization to all audiences with grace and serious commitment. We were fortunate to have had her part of our history.
Bob Betz, Auction of Washington Wines Board Member and Co-Chair and Washington Wine Industry Member.
