Each fall, one of Whatcom County’s most anticipated events brings together community leaders, business owners, and changemakers for an evening of inspiration and impact. The Whatcom Women in Business Annual Awards Celebration, held each September, honors local women making a lasting difference, while also raising funds for scholarships that support women pursuing higher education.
Since 1978, Whatcom Women in Business (WWiB) has been bringing together local women who lead with integrity and believe in giving back to the community they love. This year, the organization is recognizing four remarkable leaders, each with a story as inspiring as the work they do.
Sarah Rothenbuhler, Owner & CEO of Birch Equipment | Photograph by Tiffany Brooks
This year’s Community Legacy Award is being given to Sarah Rothenbuhler, owner and CEO of Birch Equipment. More than 30 years ago, Sarah returned to a struggling family business and completely transformed it—restructuring operations, stabilizing finances, and building a high-performing team. Today, Birch ranks among the top 100 equipment rental companies in the U.S., with a $65 million fleet and locations across Washington and Alaska. Birch has earned statewide recognition as a Best Place to Work and a top philanthropic business. Sarah also runs the Birch Golf Classic, one of the largest charity tournaments in the state, which has raised over $2.4 million for nonprofits. Her leadership is defined by grit, generosity, and a belief in being someone others can depend on.
WWiB is also honored to present this year’s Professional Women of the Year award to the following three women who lead boldly in their careers and generously in their communities.
Alle Schene, CEO of YWCA Bellingham | Photograph by Amy K Photography
Alle Schene, CEO of YWCA Bellingham, blends a background in finance and communications with a heart for community service. Since joining the YWCA in 2016, she’s led a mission-focused team working to eliminate racism and empower women. From launching an emergency shelter for women and children to securing a $2 million property for safe, stable housing, Alle approaches big challenges like poverty and homelessness with strategy and compassion. Originally from the East Coast, she now proudly calls Bellingham home. When she’s not leading the YWCA, she’s cheering from the sidelines, baking for school events, or finding peace near the water with her husband and two kids.
Edie Hill, HR & Area Manager for Timken Mounted Bearings | Photograph by Jeff Hill
Edie Hill, HR & area manager for Timken Mounted Bearings, has played a key role in the Ferndale location’s growth since 2016—doubling its workforce and helping shape a more inclusive and engaged team. Her work spans international sites in Canada, Europe, and the UK, where she focuses on everything from compliance to culture. A U.S. Air Force veteran and adjunct professor, Edie is passionate about workforce development and mentoring emerging HR professionals. She has served in multiple leadership roles within SHRM, the national association for HR professionals, and supports local nonprofits through the Timken Foundation. Known for her calm presence and thoughtful leadership, Edie builds strong teams and lasting relationships wherever she goes.
Kena Greer Brashear, Co-Owner & Broker at The Muljat Group | Photograph by Heather Glasby
Kena Greer Brashear, co-owner and designated broker at The Muljat Group, is a real estate powerhouse and a pioneer. She’s the first Black female designated broker in Whatcom and Skagit Counties and has spent over 30 years helping clients buy and sell homes with care and expertise. A breast cancer survivor and single mom of five, Kena is also deeply involved in community building. She founded the Bellingham Sonics, a four-team AAU basketball program inspired by her late father, and launched Bellingham’s first middle school Black Student Union. Her leadership is rooted in mentorship, service, and showing up for others—both on and off the court.
WWiB’s awards celebration is more than a night of recognition. It also helps fuel their Scholarship Program, which awarded three $5,000 scholarships to local women this year. The scholarship fund is supported year-round through community donations, and applications for 2026 open in January.
WWiB is honored to recognize this year’s award recipients—and invites others to be part of the impact. If you’re a woman in business looking for connection, growth, and a way to give back, consider joining WWiB’s dynamic network. Monthly in-person meetings offer opportunities to learn, collaborate, and support one another across industries and generations.
Not a business professional, but still want to support the mission? Community members can give back by donating to the WWiB Scholarship Fund, helping local women pursue higher education and build a strong future.
To learn more, become a member, or make a donation, visit wwib.org.
Nicole Burdick is Chair of the Community Engagement Committee for Whatcom Women in Business, which she joined in 2014 after receiving their scholarship in 2012. She is also the founder of Money Maven Financial, a Bellingham-based company helping women align their money with their values.
