Volume 79, Issue 6

July Presidents’ Messages

Dear Arlington AAUW members,

These past two years have been full of amazing discoveries about possible offerings to each of us as members of AAUW. We see newsletters from our sister branches with special times for speakers and book sales. We read fascinating tips on lobbying for the challenges to ERA, Title IX, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging, and many more. And we offer our own contributions to bring us together as members. I am so grateful to have served as a Co-President during this time. Thank you! And I’m immensely appreciative of our Board’s hard workers. Bon Chance to the new Board led proudly by President Terry Bratt! You all are so prepared and enthusiastic!

Thank you All!

Karen Darner, retiring co-President

Dear Arlington AAUW members,

We hope summer has gotten off to a good start for everyone despite the poor air quality due to the forest fires in Canada.  Our Board met in June to plan our programs for the coming year after soliciting ideas from our membership. Topics include AI, Genealogy, Ageism, and Finance for monthly membership meetings and field trips to museums like Planet Word. 

If you haven’t already, it is time for you to renew your AAUW membership. 

Why renew your membership in AAUW?

For more than 100 years, AAUW has been fighting for equal rights for women.  National AAUW and its member branches have been instrumental in the fight to give women equal access to education and gender equity.  National AAUW works closely with Virginia AAUW and member Branches like Arlington AAUW to future our goals for gender equity.  How?

• More than 320 recipients received $6 million in AAUW fellowships and grants for the 2022–23 academic year—the highest amount in our history! The funding advances educational and professional opportunities for women in the United States and around the globe.
• This past year AAUW continued to grow its online programs, hosting more than 58 webinars.
• AAUW’s Start Smart and Work Smart salary negotiation trainings continued to be AAUW’s most sought after programs, reaching more than 4,000 participants in 2022, and over 190,000 to date
• AAUW continued our work with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority serving institutions (MSIs), thanks to a generous grant from The Coca-Cola Foundation. A total of 17 minority-serving colleges, including 8 HBCUs, 7 women’s colleges and 2 MSIs, now offer AAUW’s Start Smart training, bringing the number of colleges and universities currently hosting the program to 77.
• Our powerful annual National Conference for College Women Student Leaders (NCCWSL) engage over 500 students from more than 300 college campuses nationwide through workshops, panels and an inspiring keynote from Nikole Hannah-Jones, creator of The 1619 Project.
• In its second year, AAUW’s STEMEd for Girls program gave over 200 participants and their caregivers the opportunity to explore STEM subjects and careers.
• AAUW’s Two-Minute Activists sent 19,539 letters to elected officials calling for action on AAUW priorities such as pregnant worker fairness, voting rights, confirming Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, and more.

Arlington AAUW monthly programs and activities are planned by our members on topics of interest for our membership and include 

• a monthly membership meeting which might be a guest speaker, a field trip, or community event 
• providing scholarships to Arlington high school seniors and an Arlington educator award
• monthly book group
• a bi-monthly newsletter
• a monthly high school lunch bunch
• theater matinees, holiday luncheons, and other social events suggested by members

In addition, as members of Virginia AAUW, our benefits include 

• • State Newsletter (Vision) 3 times a year
  • State Conference with great speakers & fellowship
  • State Lobby Days in Richmond
  • Public Policy Leadership (a voice in Richmond)
  • Branch Mini-Grants for programs
  • Liaisons to National
  • A community of friends around the state.

Look for our newsletter in mid-August for our 2023-24 calendar of programs and activities, Let’s Talk about Books selections, and other upcoming events.  Have a wonderful summer!

Sincerely,

Karen Darner, retiring co-President, Terry Bratt, President

New Treasurer Needed!

We need a volunteer(s) to be our branch treasurer as Mary Spatz, our current branch treasurer is unable to complete her second term. Treasurer duties include the following:

• Participate in bi-monthly board meetings
• Help develop yearly budget
• Keep track of expenses and bank account reports
• Deposit donation checks and dues checks from members 
• Reimburse member expenses via check, send scholarship checks to colleges, and submit insurance payment vis check.

Please let Terry Bratt know as soon as possible if you can volunteer for this one-year position.

Let’s Talk About Books

Our July meeting is scheduled for July 25, at 2 pm at the home of Barbara Gallagher.  Our book selection is The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck.

At our July meeting we will have refreshments and the opportunity to lobby for our suggestions for next year, but the vote of the group will determine if it makes the list.  We need 11 titles since we do not meet in August.  When considering your suggestions (a maximum of three) we ask that it be readily available at the library or in paperback.  If you send me your suggestions with a short blurb about the book, I will compile the list and send to all before the meeting so you can be contemplating your choices.

Here are links to the Master Book List so you can see what we have already read.   Let me know if you have any problems with the files.

List of books by author

Barbara Gallagher, Let’s Talk About Books Chair

It’s time to Renew!

How can you join?

June is the month to join or renew your membership AAUW Arlington (VA) Branch. It is important to scroll down to the middle of the membership landing page. Click on this link to join as a Branch Member.  Please reach out to Candace Lilyquist if you would like support joining online. Branch dues are $16, VA State dues are 15, and National dues are $72.

Photos from the May 15 Awards Meeting

AAUW Calendar

Our AAUW Calendar has moved to google which means you can check it online from the website or subscribe and see it directly on your phone or laptop! Additional information about the events is available by clicking the item.  Contact Joy at newsarlvaaauw@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Arlington AAUW Executive Committee 2023-24

Term begins July 1, 2023

• Presidents: Terry Bratt (2023-2025) presarlvaaauw@gmail.com
• Co-First VP for Programs: Barbara Smith and Barbara Gallagher (2023-2025)
• Second VPs for Membership:  Candace L. Lilyquist (2022-2024)
• Third VP for Communications: Joy Gatewood (2023-2025) newsarlvaaauw@gmail.com
• Secretary: Denise M. Hassanein (2022-2024)
• Treasurer: Mary Spatz (2022-2024)
• Public Policy: Sara Anderson

Volume 79, Issue 4

March/April President’s Message

Dear Arlington AAUW members,

Our Arlington AAUW Annual Meeting will take place on March 25 at 1:00 pm at Lubber Run Community Center on George Mason Drive. We are looking forward to seeing you in person and having the chance to catch up before the meeting begins.

Our annual meeting has two purposes this year: a business meeting where we will elect new officers for the 2023-25 terms and approve the minutes from the March 2022 annual meeting and a program presentation to learn more about the latest issues in Title IX.

The Nominating Committee must have 5 members as directed by our Bylaws and met twice to nominate candidates for the open positions of President and Vice-President for Communications Programs.  This year the Nominating Committee had four Board Members Karen Darner, Marjorie Hobart, Sara Anderson and Meg Tuccillo and two branch members, Barbara Smith and Michele Milden. 

Slate of Candidates for 2023-2025

President: Theresa Bratt

Co-Vice-Presidents of Programs: Barbara Smith and Barbara Gallagher

Vice-President of Communications (newsletter and website) Joy Gatewood

2^nd Vice President for Membership Candace Lilyquist, Treasurer Mary Spatz, and Secretary Denise Hassanein will continue in their elected positions for 2023-24.

Finally, we are very grateful to Karen Darner, Terry Bratt, Meg Tuccillo, Teri Doxsee, Carol Dabbs, Susan Senn, Priscilla Becker, Marjorie Hobart, and Sara Anderson, who served on the Board for the past two years and returning officers Denise Hassanein, Candace Lilyquist and Mary Spatz for their dedication to the goals of AAUW.  Thank you, too, to all our members for your dedicated participation in Arlington’s American Association of University Women!

Sincerely,

Karen Darner and Terry Bratt, Co-Presidents

Membership Meetings

Thanks to those of you who were able to join us for an informational session with Dr. Heyn from Marymount to learn more about her research study on healthy aging in Arlington.  Watch for further updates as the ALOHA Study moves forward.

Join us March 25th, 1 PM at Lubber Run

Our annual meeting is coming up on Saturday, March 25^th at 1 pm at Lubber Run Community Center.  In addition to the important work of electing new officers for our branch, we are delighted that Dr Laura Finkelstein, Associate Vice President of Student Health and Well-being & Title IX Coordinator at Marymount, will prove a video updating the work of the university on Title IX issues.

Upcoming Meetings

April is the month when we have the great opportunity each year to hear from some of our best and brightest young women in Arlington Public Schools who have won awards for their Science Fair entrees.  This STEM-focused evening lets us hear about their work and join in celebrating an AAUW STEM scholarship winner.  This is always a stimulating and interesting evening – we will meet via zoom on Monday, April 17^th at 7 pm for this event – stay tuned for the link closer to this event!

Remember to join us on May 15^th at 7 pm at The Woman’s Club of Arlington for our annual awards evening where we present 2 student scholarships and celebrate our Educator of the Year in person!

Finally, keep Tuesday, June 6^th at 7 pm open on your calendar as we are preparing a collaborative event featuring an impressive panel on women’s finances with the Arlington Commission on the Status of Women.  This is an event you’ll want to tell your friends about and invite them to join us.  More to come soon!!!!! 

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Let’s Talk About Books

The March meeting for Let’s Talk About Books is Tuesday, March 28, 2 pm at the home of Terry Bratt.  Our book selection is A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell.

Our April meeting will be Tuesday, April 25 at  2 pm on Zoom and our book selection is  Lady in Waiting by Anne Glenconner.

Shortly before each meeting Terry Bratt will send an invitation with her home address or the Zoom information. So, watch your email and come join the fun!  Look forward to seeing you then.

Go to the Let’s Talk About Books page to see all the books we are reading for the 2022-23 year.  Here are links to the Master Book List so you can see what we have already read.   List by title – List by author Let me know if you  have any problems with the files. 

Barbara Gallagher, Let’s Talk About Books Chair

Membership

Our chapter has successfully navigated the transition to an online membership application process. Please share this link with anyone wishing to join. https://www.aauw.org/resources/member/why-join/.  Encourage them to enroll in the same possibliites that brought you to AAUW. This is a great group of smart and talented women seeking to better understand their community and the world around them while making a positive impact.

Special thanks to Mary Spatz who spent many hours working to reconcile previous paper applications and the online process. Change is good, but not easy. Another special appreciation to Virginia Sorkin for contacting individuals who needed support with the process of joining online. Theresa Bratt kept us all moving especially with the National AAUW staff.

Current Membership Statistics

Candace L. Lilyquist, VP Membership

Lunch Bunch

The day of the meetings has changed to Thursdays. Please contact Mary Beth Pelosky or Meg Tuccillo if you would like to join us once, twice, or every third Thursday of the month! We provide sliced chicken, a big salad, cookies and a fruit at each meeting. Our theme for this year is “The Immigrant’s Story”.

Mary Beth Pelosky, Lunch Bunch

Title IX: Karen Darner Remembers 50 years and Counting

The first Arlington governmental committee I was appointed to when I served on the Committee on the Status of Women was one that organized a group of women to work with school administrators and elementary and secondary teachers to help put in place a response to have Title IX in the public schools. The women on the committee from the Status of Women were Republican and Democratic supporters of equal pay for women, passage of Title IX to help equalize sports offerings in high school and college settings, and the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment among the States. We were to work with high school administrators on the requirements for Title IX as it began in our public schools.

Title IX 50th Anniversary Commemorative Stamp

It was a very tough audience in each secondary school, and administrators began by grilling us on how the “need” was determined, and the concern that money would be diverted from boys’ sports programs to begin the girls’ sports competition. Occasionally a teacher would ask questions on how the implementation and monitoring of compliance would be achieved. Many suggested they were encouraged to participate in developing a compliance model for the schools.

In general. staff at all four high schools were not comfortable, nor supportive of the changes that were about to be made. But … we plowed ahead for the next ten years to fund and establish a variety of quality sports programs, for secondary school girls in Arlington. Our Arlington Public School’s Human Relations Department provided numerous enrichment courses to all staff in elementary and secondary grades, and Arlington co-sponsored workshops with American University. Scholarships or women in athletics became a reality,

The Virginia Education Association established additional workshops in regional areas that provided teachers and principals and professors of college education courses with background information about Title IX, what our responsibilities as educators were to our students to comply, and we trained may classroom teachers on how to monitor what their school districts were doing to comply with the 1972 federal law. During the next year, with Eleanor Saslaw, a Fairfax high school counselor, who eventually became a member of the State Board of Education, Mimi Dash, a Fairfax classroom teacher, and I, a speech and language therapist in Arlington Public Schools,  traveled around the state .

We compiled ideas for implementation of not only Title IX intentions, but ways to increase teachers’ awareness of sex role stereotyping in their teaching of students of all ages, and how to provide instruction in a nondiscriminatory manner. Fortunately, many people offered ideas and we were able to distribute these lesson plans and instruction materials when we presented  workshops, most of which were held on Saturdays.

At one time, we thought Title IX and reduction of sex-role stereotyping would never be eliminated, but eventually we realized that as both were presented in school districts, teachers began to recognize the potential of equal access to sports programs – a wealth of extraordinary scholarships for girls and women and success in high school and college, and then lead to professional careers. And, when a student heard that “s/he” could attain academic or athletic success. it opened her or his eyes to that possibility, no matter what gender.

One final note – A Fairfax Circuit Court Judge, Johanna Fitzpatrick was on a panel with me one year as we celebrated Women’s History Month, She had become a judge many years before, when her son was very young, and she was about to be sworn in as a member of the Virginia Court of Appeals. She said that recently her son had asked her ,”Mom, can a man become a judge, too?” “Of course”, she said with a smile. “If he works very hard and is qualified”.  You see – her son had only known and seen a female judge, his mother, all those years, So the hope continues that more and more young children will be exposed to women AND men in a variety of occupations and professions, including elective offices – and then they will be able to envision no barriers to their participation and success in the future.

Karen Darner, Co-President

AAUW Calendar

Our AAUW Calendar has moved to google which means you can check it online from the website or subscribe and see it directly on your phone or laptop! Additional information about the events is available by clicking the item.  Contact Teri at newsarlvaaauw@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Arlington AAUW Executive Committee 2022-23

Term began July 1, 2022

• Co-Presidents: Terry Bratt (2021-2023) and Karen Darner (2021-2023) presarlvaaauw@gmail.com
• First VP for Programs: Meg Tuccillo (2021-2023)
• Second VPs for Membership:  Candace L. Lilyquist (2022-2024)
• Third VP for Communications: Teri Doxsee (2021-2023) newsarlvaaauw@gmail.com
• Secretary: Denise M. Hassanein (2022-2024)
• Treasurer: Mary Spatz (2022-2024)
• Public Policy: Sara Anderson

Volume 79, Issue 3

January/February President’s Message

Happy 2023 fellow Arlington AAUW Members!

Now that 2022 is behind us and the pandemic is on the wane, we can look forward to keeping our new year’s resolutions whatever they may be. We were delighted that so many members were able to join us for our holiday luncheon at the Cote D’Or. It was great to have the chance to chat together face to face and catch up on one another’s activities. We also had fun at the One More Page Bookstore buying holiday gifts. Several of us brought guests and we hope that these guests are potential new members, too. 

Good news! At our January Board meeting, Treasurer Mary Spatz reported that members have donated $3,270 so far to our spring scholarship fund. Bravo! Remember it’s not too late to donate if you haven’t already to meet our goal of $4000.

This winter we are looking forward to more in-person activities. Our January 30 meeting will be at Lubber Run with guest speaker, Dr. Patricia Heyn, the Founding Director of the new Marymount Center on Optimal Aging. Please invite a friend to join you for what is sure to be a very interesting discussion. 

Our annual meeting where we elect our new officers is now scheduled for March 25. Open officer positions include President, VP for Communications, and VP for Programs.  We are looking for nominations, so if you are interested in taking on one of these leadership roles or know someone who might, let a Board member know. The Nominating Committee will be meeting later this month, and everyone’s help in gathering a slate of candidates will be appreciated.

We have a whole new year ahead of us. Quoting Judy Garland, “wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could all be a little more gentle with each other, a little more loving, and have a little more empathy and maybe, next year at this time we’d like each other a little more.”

Karen Darner and Terry Bratt, Co-Presidents

Membership Meetings

In November we had a wonderful tour of the Women’s Military Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Thanks to all of you who were able to join us for our annual holiday luncheon at La Cote d’Or on December 3^rd.  It was great to see all 26 of you in person and catch up on each other’s lives!!  Everything went smoothly and, after our luncheon, a number of us went across the street to the delightful small bookstore, One More Page, for some holiday gift shopping – a great day all around!!

Join us January 30th, 4 PM at Lubber Run

ALOHA takes on new meaning

Join us to meet Dr. Patricia Heyn,  Founding Director of the new Marymount Center on Optimal Aging, the University’s first interdisciplinary research hub focusing on addressing critical issues affecting the health of older adults. Under Dr. Heyn’s leadership, Marymount is launching the Arlington Longitudinal Optimal Healthy Aging Study (ALOHA STUDY) with the goal of empowering participants to achieve optimal wellness informed by a comprehensive health assessment and motivational passport tool that is designed to enhance overall health function and independence throughout a person’s lifespan. 

Hear more about Dr. Heyn’s work and this important, research-based study specifically focused on Arlington!!!!!  This will be an important study and should be of great interest to us all.  Invite your friends to join us for this valuable, in-person  presentation!!!!

March 25 Annual Meeting

Come to our annual meeting at 10:30 am at Lubber Run Community Center, 300 N Park Dr, Arlington 22203*, to elect officers for the coming year and to hear from our speaker, Crystal Coombes, Title IX Coordinator for George Mason University, about the state of Title IX on its 50^th anniversary

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Let’s Talk About Books

The January meeting for Let’s Talk About Books is Tuesday, January 24, 2 pm   Our book selection is The Beauty of Dusk by Frank Bruni.

Our February meeting will be Tuesday, February 21 at  2 pm (note date change) and our book selection is  Squeeze Me by Carl Hiaasen

Both meetings are at your regular Zoom location. Shortly before each meeting Terry Bratt will send an invitation with the Zoom information. So, watch your email and come join the fun!  Look forward to seeing you then.

Go to the Let’s Talk About Books page to see all the books we are reading for the 2022-23 year.  Here are links to the Master Book List so you can see what we have already read.   List by title – List by author Let me know if you  have any problems with the files. 

Barbara Gallagher, Chair

AAUW Calendar

Volume 79, Issue 2

November/December President’s Message

Greetings Arlington AAUW Members!

First of all, early voting began in Virginia on Friday, September 23, and Karen has voted already. Please remember this is one of our true responsibilities. Many women and men fought long and hard for women to assume this responsibility over 100 years ago — please don’t forget to vote by November 8, 2022. Then make sure you wear your “I voted!” sticker everywhere — wear it with pride!

Thank you so much to those of you who wrote post cards to Virginia voters who may have to check with their registrar to ensure they have not lost their voter registration slot. They’re checking now so there will be no question about their registration at all. Please encourage others to register and/or vote right up through election day – November 8!

Our State President of AAUW, Lane Stone is from Alexandria and we have already extended her an invitation to join Arlington’s members in the near future. Needless to say, there are many opportunities for her to be a part of one of our programs in the near future. We are looking forward to seeing her look of pride when she does join us. Stay tuned.

The National office of AAUW has begun a new process of paying our dues to National, State, and local. Our membership year goes from July 1 – June 30, but because of difficulties changing to the new Community Hub, there’s a grace period that has been established that ends November 30 this year. Let Terry Bratt or Karen Darner know if you have questions.

Lobby Day will be held in Richmond on  January 19 for AAUW members to contact their legislators during the 2023 General Assembly.  Plan on joining other women and men in Richmond that day. AAUW is also planning on a reception in Richmond for women in the legislature that will be held the night before Lobby Day, January 18. I’m sure we will get more information to prepare us for this visit and an opportunity to meet with our legislators. (virginiageneralassembly.gov)

We are very fortunate this year to have our members Meg Tuccillo and Krysta Jones serving as the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Co-Vice Presidents on the State Board. Here’s a good introduction to the definition of each component: Diversity is having a seat at the table,; Inclusion is having a voice, and Belonging is having that voice heard. It is our
responsibility to work together so we incorporate the ideals of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging throughout our programs and policies. Each branch is expected to work on this throughout the year.

Do you have ideas for celebrating women and girls on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2023? Karen was in the Peace Corps in Jamaica in 1989, and that country had a wonderful conference set up in Kingston for a thousand women to participate. It was fantastic! And we learned about this incredible day to be grateful to so many women who have been great role models for us and other womee throughout the country. It’s time to think about some activities for us to share with our Arlington neighbors.

Finally, the State Conference for AAUW in Virginia will be in Williamsburg next year on March 18, 2023. Start planning to join some of your Arlington members in Williamsburg where other women will be presenting ideas and programs from their local branches. More details to follow…

“Back to the beginning – please don’t forget to cast your vote for the people and policies on the ballots in various locations of Northern Virginia. It is so important! In honor and memory of our suffragettes long ago.

Karen Darner and Terry Bratt, Co-Presidents

Join us November 19th to Tour the Women’s Military Memorial

(NOTE TIME CHANGE!! 1 pm) – Tour of the Women’s Military Memorial, guided by Sandy Lawrence, past president of Virginia State AAUW and Retired Navy Commander.

Come join us for this unique opportunity to learn about the history (herstory!) of women in our country’s military.  The Women’s Military Memorial is located at Memorial Ave and Schley Dr, Arlington 22203 with parking available at the Arlington National Cemetery visitor lot located on Military Ave.(picture ID such as driver’s license required) 

Celebrate with us at the Annual Holiday Luncheon December 3!

We are excited to announce updated plans for our December 3th Holiday Luncheon!!!!  You guessed it – we will be celebrating at the lovely restaurant, Cote D’Or, 6876 Langston Boulevard (formerly Lee Highway), Arlington 22213!!!

We have secured a separate dining room at the restaurant for us and will have a three course meal provided at a cost of $26 per person. In addition to salad and dessert, you will have your choice of sautéed tilapia, grilled chicken panini or spinach, mushroom and cheese frittata. After lunch, we can stroll across the street to the One More Page Bookstore to browse and perhaps make some holiday purchases!!!!

Please plan to join us at noon on Saturday, December 3^rd at Cote D’Or!!! A separate message will be sent out closer to the date with more specific details – so stay tuned!!!

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Let’s Talk About Books

The November meeting for Let’s Talk About Books is Tuesday, November 22, 2 pm at your regular Zoom location.  Our book selection is The Sentence by Louis Erdrich.

Our December meeting will be Tuesday, December 27, 2 pm.  Our book selection is The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher.

Shortly before each meeting Terry Bratt will send an invitation with the Zoom information. So, watch your email and come join the fun!  Look forward to seeing you then.

Go to the Let’s Talk About Books page to see all the books we are reading for the 2022-23 year.  Here are links to the Master Book List so you can see what we have already read.   List by title – List by author Let me know if you  have any problems with the files. 

Barbara Gallagher, Chair

AAUW Calendar

Dear Branch Presidents and Finance Officers,

This is an update about the status of the AAUW membership information database system changes and membership renewals, as well as information on how to learn more about it.  Please read and inform your members.  Most importantly, some members should be able to renew their membership and make a donation. 

The AAUW of VA Board will send information periodically on this subject reflecting the best of our knowledge at the time.  However, branch leaders should attend weekly AAUW staff virtual meetings (described below) and any webinars to hear directly from the staff about the new database and other   AAUW matters.

1. AAUW’s New Database System 

1. 1. The new AAUW database system for membership information, replacing MSD, is called the Community Hub and is being rolled out in stages.  We understand from various sources that implementation is delayed for several parts of the new system.  
   2. In general: Go to https://www.aauw.org/new-systems-update/  for information on the new AAUW database system and training videos on creating a new account and other matters—which change  time-to-time.  
   3. All members need to create a new account on the AAUW Website now–especially officers. (Directions for this are below)
   4. Clarification:  There is no webpage at this time named “Community Hub.”  Currently, “Community Hub” seems to be the name for the entire new AAUW membership information database system.  Therefore, when a member goes to the main webpage at aauw.org, clicks on the “log in” link in the upper right corner, you go to a “Welcome” page that gives you the option to log in by setting up your new AAUW account or using your new AAUW account login.  If you use the new login, you will access the “Personal Snapshot” page.  This seems to be the AAUW webpage each member uses at this time for access to the membership information database.
   5. Much individual and branch membership information is not yet accessible for members. Individually, most members can update their personal information.  Some members can renew their membership and make donations, as well as perhaps see the branch roster.   

2. DIRECTIONS FOR CREATING YOUR ACCOUNT 

1. 1. To create your new AAUW account. 
      1. Go to the main webpage at aauw.org.  
      2. Click on the “log in” link in the upper right corner. You will go to a “Welcome” page that gives you the choice to set up your new AAUW account. 
      3. The new password can only be letters and numbers.

1. 2. Important: Keep a record of the password you used for your previous AAUW account because, for some time, it will continue to be necessary to access certain areas on the AAUW system. For example, your prior password must be used to send an application to the AAUW Five Star Recognition Program.  

1. 3. When you log in to AAUW using your new account information, you will access the “Personal Snapshot” page with your contact information.  This seems to be the main page for each member to access Community Hub.  From there, there are tabs to access the membership information database (as it becomes available) and you can go to other parts of the AAUW website.

1. 4. You will see your personal contact information.  You should see “Member? Yes” and a listing of the category of membership. If there is an error message “You are not a member,” inform AAUW staff at connect@aauw.org.  AAUW staff is aware of this problem and is fixing it.

1. 5. There are tabs in a line within the blue band, including “check out,” “log out,” and “Personal Snapshot” to return to that page if you have opened any other tabs on that page.  To the right above that band is the red “Donate” button.  

1. 1. Although the AAUW video at https://www.aauw.org/new-systems-update/  on donations indicates that there is a “donate” tab in the blue band, I do not find one.
      1. Instead, to make a donation, click on the red “Donate” button and go through the usual process to make a donation.
      2. Although the payment page may reference a “credit card,” a debit card can also be used to make a donation.

1. 6. There are tabs on the left side of the “Personal Snapshot” page to access various membership information database capabilities and not all are yet working.  I suggest you review the following to make useful changes to your personal records.

1. 1. 1. The “My Contact Information” tab allows you to correct and add to your personal contact information.
      2. The “My Affiliations” tab takes you to information about your state and branch affiliate status and, depending on your access rights currently, allows you to see and edit a branch board roster. 
      3. The “My Education” tab allows you to correct and update a listing of your educational degrees (which currently is usually missing or incomplete).

3. TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP
   1. Those members who have created an account and their Personal Snapshot information correctly reflects that they are current members should be able to renew their membership at this time.  As stated above, I don’t believe that the Finance Officer currently can send out a group email to all branch members with a special individual renewal link. However, the Finance Officer can send the following directions to current members for processing their renewal online after checking and making any changes to the directions.
   2. Directions:
      1. Log into Personal Snapshot, as described above.
      2. Click on the “My Membership” tab on left side. You will go to the “Membership Management” page. 
      3. Popup: “Thank you for renewing your Branch and State memberships.  Please proceed with Branch and State selections as prompted in the screens that follow.”  Click “Renew.” 
      4. Choose your branch from a full list of all branches organized by state and click “next” to go to your state and ensure correct state is checked and click “Next.”
      5. You are given the option to give to the Greatest Needs Fund and click “Next.” 
      6. Your invoice will be displayed for branch and state membership. Review. Ensure it shows the correct branch and state and billing amounts. If correct, follow directions to pay with a credit or debit card.  Then print out a receipt and look for a confirmation email from infosf@aauw.org.

4. Training on the New AAUW Database System

a.    The AAUW staff specifically involved in the transition to the new membership information database system are providing periodic online training on Thursdays.  (This is held in the time slot usually used by Connect2AAUW – described in the next item.)  

b.      The next training session will be on March 31st.  To register for that training session, follow the directions below for registering for the Connect2Virtual Office Hours and chose that date. 

5. Connect2AAUW Virtual Office Hours

a.    To provide AAUW staff support to AAUW state and branch leaders, AAUW is holding weekly one-hour virtual meetings entitled Connect2AAUW Virtual Office Hours on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.  Leaders will be able to obtain staff support on AAUW website navigation, resources, tools, and more.  I have found that every meeting deals with the new membership information database system in addition to other subjects (like NCCWSL scholarships).  

b.    Here is the link to register for any meeting. 

1. 1. The meeting date field is a drop-down so that you can register in advance for future meetings, including the special training sessions on the membership information database system.  
   2. You must fill in a mandatory field for questions.  Suggestion: either pre-submit a question or just write that you want to listen to the meeting.

Volume 79, Issue   1

September/October President’s Message

Greetings Arlington AAUW Members!

Summer 2022 has been quite the hot and humid one, so we are sure that everyone is looking forward to the crisp, cool days of fall. We have an exciting series of monthly activities and events planned for 2022-23, so be sure to mark your calendars now, so you do not miss out.

We are participating in two community service projects in September and October. Our branch along with other AAUW VA branches statewide has joined the Get out the Vote postcard writing campaign, Reclaim our Vote. Our branch has committed to writing one hundred postcards from September 5 to October 1. If you can help with this postcard writing campaign, let us know at presarlvaaauw@gmail.com.

We have also joined the Arlington League of Women Voters and other community groups in sponsoring a virtual Meet and Greet the Candidates on October 2 at 4:00 pm. You will receive an e-mail from us for a link to an Eventbrite registration invitation. After you register, you will be sent a zoom link for the virtual meeting.

Our monthly programs will continue to focus on AAUW National’s theme of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and we are planning for our meetings to be in-person this fall except for our October meeting, which will be virtual. Our planning though is flexible, and we will revert to zoom meetings if necessary. In September, our own Vivian Kallen is our guest speaker and in October we will learn more about Arlington’s Missing Middle Housing Framework, for more information about these and future programs, check our Vice President for Programs, Meg Tuccillo’s column below. We also encourage you to ask a friend to come with you – they might want to join our branch!

Branch members are also encouraged to participate in other local, statewide conferences and events coming up in the months ahead. Information will be posted on our website as it becomes available.

Don’t forget that if you like to read and enjoy discussing books, check out the Let’s Talk About Books page. The International Coffees are scheduled to start again in September and meet monthly. Priscilla Becker has posted more information below. Interested in working with older Arlington teenage girls? Contact Mary Beth Pelosky to find out more our Lunch Bunch activities at Arlington High School and how you can participate.

Our next Board meeting is on September 7. If you have any items, you want the Board to discuss or act on please let one of us know beforehand. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at our September 19 meeting. 

 Terry Bratt and Karen Darner, Co-Presidents

Join us September 19th for our First Meeting!

 We are excited to come back together in person for our first program of the 2022-23 year, “My Mother and Her Hero, Jane Adams”!! Our own Vivian Kallen is offering us a unique opportunity to learn about her family’s immigration from Greece in the early 1900s and her mom’s connections with Jane Adams and Hull House in Chicago.  She has great information to share and stories to tell about both her mother and Jane Adams that help us understand the story of immigrants in our country over time and the importance of support from activists like Jane Adams.

Please plan to join us in-person on Monday, September 19^th from 4 to 6 pm at Lubber Run Community Center’s Community Room, 300, N. Park Drive, Arlington, VA, 22203.  The beautiful new center is right off George Mason Drive and N Park Drive with plenty of parking and is fully accessible.

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Arlington AAUW Program Plans for 2022-23

SAVE THE DATES!!!!!!

We are excited to share current plans for membership programs for the 2022-23 year.  We will be adding to the list as plans get confirmed but keep the dates available for a year of interesting, educational and important programs!

Monday, September 19^th, 4-6pm – My Mother and Her Hero, Jane Adams, with Vivian Kallen, at the Lubber Run Community Center, 300 N Park Drive, Arlington, 22203.

Monday, October 17, 7 -9 pm via zoom (link provided closer to meeting) – Arlington’s Missing Middle Draft Housing Framework with Pat Findikoglu, via zoom.  This is an opportunity to learn more about the draft framework, ask questions and engage with each other on this important issue in our community.

 Saturday, November 19^th, 10:30 am – Tour of the Women’s Military Memorial, guided by Sandy Lawrence, past president of Virginia State AAUW and Retired Navy Commander.  Come join us for this unique opportunity to learn about the history (herstory!) of women in our country’s military.  The Women’s Military Memorial is located at Memorial Ave and Schley Dr, Arlington 22203 with parking available at the Arlington National Cemetery visitor lot located on Military Ave.(picture ID required)

Saturday, December 3^rd at noon – Holiday Luncheon mark you calendar – details to follow!

STAY TUNED FOR MORE VALUABLE PROGRAMS FOR 2023!!!!!!!!!

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Let’s Talk About Books

The September meeting for Let’s Talk About Books is Tuesday, September 27, 2 pm at your regular Zoom location.  Our book selection is The  Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson.

Our October meeting will be Tuesday, October 25 , 2 pm.  Our book selection is Persuasion by Jane Austen.

Shortly before each meeting Terry Bratt will send an invitation with the Zoom information. So, watch your email and come join the fun!  Look forward to seeing you then.

Go to the Let’s Talk About Books page to see all the books we are reading for the 2022-23 year.  Here are links to the Master Book List so you can see what we have already read.   List by title – List by author Let me know if you  have any problems with the files. 

Barbara Gallagher, Chair

Membership – Dues for FY 2023 are now Past Due!

Thank you to those members who have already paid your AAUW dues for 2022-2023. If you have not paid yet, your membership expired this past June 30, 2022.  AAUW will drop you from the national database if dues aren’t current, so please remit them as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so.

“Your membership has been vital in making AAUW the only organization advancing gender equity from all sides for more than a century. Because of you, we’re not only working with lawmakers to reshape unfair systems; we’re also partnering with employers and investing in women who are creating change from the inside out.

Today, I hope you’ll continue that legacy by renewing your membership! As an AAUW member whose branch participates in online payments processing, you can pay all of your dues—branch, state and national—at one time! Here’s how:

To pay online: Visit AAUW’s Community Hub. If you haven’t already set up an account there, you can do so by scrolling below the blue login button and clicking “Forgot Your Password?” at the bottom. Enter your email address, then click “Reset Your Password” to receive your login email. If you don’t receive an email within 20 minutes, please contact connect@aauw.org. After you receive the email, enter your email address and then “Create and Confirm your Password” to access your Personal Snapshot.

Once you are within your Personal Snapshot, click the blue RENEW button at the bottom to renew your national membership and add your branch (VA3003-Arlington) and state memberships!

To pay by check: As always, you have the option of making a check payable to your AAUW branch and mailing it to their preferred address as directed.

Whichever way you decide to renew your membership, I hope you take pride in knowing that our work together is making a real difference in the lives of women and girls.”

The new website is difficult and, in many respects, not too user friendly. It can take several tries to establish a password, for example.  Members have also found that renewing on a cell phone is unsuccessful while renewing on a laptop is.

However, if you choose to pay by check, please mail your check for $98 made out to AAUW Arlington Virginia Branch to Mary Spatz. Check the online membership directory for the address.

Dues this year are $98.00-
$67.00- National AAUW ($64 is tax deductible)
$15.00-Virginia AAUW
$16.00-Arlington Branch

Although the renewal deadline is June 30, the renewal notices have been late, so please just remit your dues as soon as you can.

Terry Bratt, Co-President

AAUW Calendar

Volume 78, Issue  6

July/August President’s Message

Hope everyone is staying cool with this hot weather! 

It was wonderful to see that so many members were able to attend our May meeting and catch up with one another in person. It’s been a long time since our December luncheon at Meg Tuccillo’s house. We were delighted to meet our scholarship winners and hear about their college plans.

In early June, we had a very successful program planning meeting for 2022-2023, looking over many ideas from our branch members and board members. Many thanks to everyone for sharing such great ideas. Our Vice-President for Programs, Meg Tuccillo has already set up a tentative schedule for our programs, and is busy arranging for speakers, videos, and other components to make our programs pertinent and interesting.  We know that they will grab your attention and motivate you to learn more. Get in touch with Meg if you’d like to help her design and organize one of our monthly programs.

Both of us will be here for most of the summer, but Karen will be gone for about two weeks that includes a family reunion in Loveland, Colorado (Karen’s Mom’s birthplace) August 5-7. She and her family are all looking forward to this gathering soooo much. If you would like to get together with several AAUW members during the next 2-3 months, give one of us a call and we can get a bite to eat somewhere and talk. We’d love to share ideas and places to visit in this area, now that we all are feeling a little more comfortable about being out and about. Our phone numbers are in the membership directory.

Have a great summer – we look forward to seeing everyone at our September branch meeting.

Karen Darner and Terry Bratt , Co-Presidents

Arlington AAUW Program Plans for 2022-23

Thanks to those of you who were able to join us for our end of the year celebration honoring our scholarship winners and Educator of the year!  It was great to see our members in person after such a long stint of zoom get-togethers!!!

We held a special board meeting in June to discuss ideas for potential meetings for the 22-23 year and are  grateful for the numerous great suggestions from members.  We are in the process of planning and organizing for meaningful, thoughtful opportunities to learn about the efforts of the women who came before us along with the chance to discuss actions we can take to help move forward on gender equity issues through research, education and advocacy!

Join us September 19th for our First Meeting!

We are excited to share with you all our plans for our first membership meeting on Monday, September 19^th at 7 pm at the home of Vivian Kallen.  Vivian has graciously agreed to host our first meeting and share her stories of her Greek immigrant family and their relationship to Jane Adams’ Hull House.  Vivian is a great storyteller and will talk about the opportunities immigrant women had as a result of the efforts of Jane Adams and the impact of Hull house on her life.

Some of the ideas we are developing at this point for the rest of our programs include hearing about the status of Title IX on the 50^th anniversary of its inception, collaborating with other Arlington women’s groups to learn more about the “missing middle’ issue in Arlington housing opportunities, learning about the Restorative Justice movement in the Arlington community and Arlington Public Schools, viewing a new documentary from Loki Mulholland (son of Arlington’s own Freedom Fighter, Joan Mulholland) called “The Evers” about civil rights’ activists Medgar and Myrlie Evers, visiting the Women’s History Museum and other interesting possibilities.  Stay tuned for more details on our 2022-23 programs as they get developed!!!!!!

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Let’s Talk About Books

Our July meeting is scheduled for July 18, at 3 pm for tea at the home of Terry Bratt.  This will be our first in person meeting in a very long time. We look forward to really SEEING everyone. Our book selection is Destiny of  the Republic: A Tale Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President by Candace Milla.

What Shall We Read Next Year?

At our July meeting we will have the opportunity to lobby for our suggestions for next year, but the vote of the group will determine if it makes the list.  We need 11 titles since we do not meet in August.  When considering your suggestions (a maximum of three) we ask that it be readily available at the library or in paperback.  If you send me your suggestions with a short blurb about the book, I will compile the list and send to all before the meeting so you can be contemplating your choices.

Here are links to the Master Book List so you can see what we have already read.   List by title – List by author Let me know if you  have any problems with the files.

Barbara Gallagher, Chair

Membership – It’s Time to Renew by Paying your FY 2023 Dues!

At the end of May, all members should have received the following e-mail from Katrina Breese telling members how to renew on-line.  

“Your membership has been vital in making AAUW the only organization advancing gender equity from all sides for more than a century. Because of you, we’re not only working with lawmakers to reshape unfair systems; we’re also partnering with employers and investing in women who are creating change from the inside out.

Today, I hope you’ll continue that legacy by renewing your membership! As an AAUW member whose branch participates in online payments processing, you can pay all of your dues—branch, state and national—at one time! Here’s how:

To pay online: Visit AAUW’s Community Hub. If you haven’t already set up an account there, you can do so by scrolling below the blue login button and clicking “Forgot Your Password?” at the bottom. Enter your email address, then click “Reset Your Password” to receive your login email. If you don’t receive an email within 20 minutes, please contact connect@aauw.org. After you receive the email, enter your email address and then “Create and Confirm your Password” to access your Personal Snapshot.

Once you are within your Personal Snapshot, click the blue RENEW button at the bottom to renew your national membership and add your branch (VA3003-Arlington) and state memberships!

To pay by check: As always, you have the option of making a check payable to your AAUW branch and mailing it to their preferred address as directed.

Whichever way you decide to renew your membership, I hope you take pride in knowing that our work together is making a real difference in the lives of women and girls.”

The new website is difficult and, in many respects, not too user friendly. It can take several tries to establish a password, for example.  Members have also found that renewing on a cell phone is unsuccessful while renewing on a laptop is. 

However, if you choose to pay by check, please mail your check for $98 made out to AAUW Arlington Virginia Branch to Mary Spatz. Check the online membership directory for the address.

Dues this year are $98.00-
$67.00- National AAUW ($64 is tax deductible)
$15.00-Virginia AAUW
$16.00-Arlington Branch

Although the renewal deadline is June 30, the renewal notices have been late, so please just remit your dues as soon as you can.

Terry Bratt, Co-President

Meg Tuccillo to receive Award

Meg Tuccillo will be awarded a Lifetime of Service Award  at Arlington Cares annual celebration of volunteerism on July 12. The virtual event will celebrate volunteers who are regularly making a difference in our community. Register here if you would like to join the event. https://volunteer.leadercenter.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=38

AAUW Calendar

Volume 78, Issue  5

May/June President’s Message

Happy spring! Despite some chilly weather, flowers are blooming, the trees are leafing out, and the pandemic might be on the wane. Our branch has much to be thankful for this year. Despite the pandemic, we were able to meet in-person in December for our annual holiday luncheon and participate in a variety of interesting monthly programs via Zoom. Our 2021-22 fundraising drive was so successful that we were able to award a third $1000 scholarship to a high school student interested in pursuing post-secondary STEM studies. The other scholarships we were awarded to a high school student continuing post-secondary education in the Arts and to a “Lunch Bunch” high school student continuing to college from Arlington High School.  Our successful fundraising drive also allowed us to continue giving a $500 award to an exemplary Arlington Public Schools teacher. 

This has been another incredible year – Thank you to our Board of Directors and Arlington AAUW members for making this year so successful.  We are hoping that next year our meetings will be in person again. The Board will be planning the 2022-23 calendar and programs on June 1. It would be a big help if you would share with us some of your ideas for programs and discussions by dropping us a note or better yet, join us at the June 1 planning meeting on Zoom! And don’t forget that it will soon be time to pay your dues for 2022-23.

We are planning for annual awards meeting to be in-person on May 16 at 7:00 pm at the Women’s Club of Arlington-see below for more information. We hope that as many members as possible can attend so we can thank you in-person for your contributions as we congratulate our awardees.

See you on May 16!

Terry Bratt and Karen Darner , Co-Presidents

May 16^th Program Plans – Annual Arlington Awards Evening

We are so excited about our Annual Arlington Awards Evening on Monday evening, May 16, 7 pm, IN PERSON!!!, at The Woman’s Club of Arlington, 700 South Buchanan Street, Arlington, 22204.

This is our opportunity to celebrate our Arts Scholarship and Lunch Bunch Scholarship winners as well as our Arlington AAUW Educator of the Year awardee.  Our Arts Scholarship is going to Anabelle Lombard, a senior at Wakefield High School who, in her teacher’s words, “eats, breathes and sleeps all things creative”!  Our Educator of the Year is Christina Smith, an English Learner teacher at Yorktown who is described as “having a heart of gold”.  Our third awardee, the winner of the Lunch Bunch Scholarship is Arlington Community High School Senior, Julianna Ditta.

Be sure to join us in person at our meeting on May 16^th, 7 pm, Woman’s Club of Arlington to meet and learn more about our awardees and help us celebrate their excellent work!!!

Check out our full program of meetings on the Meetings page on our website.

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Let’s Talk About Books

The May Let’s Talk About Books  meeting will be Tuesday, May 24 , 2 pm.  Our book selection is The Four Winds by Kristin Hanna.

Our June meeting will be Tuesday, June 28, 2 pm.  Our book selection is Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell.

Shortly before each meeting Terry Bratt will send an invitation with the Zoom information. So, watch your email and come join the fun!  Look forward to seeing you then.

See all our books for 2021-22 with a brief description of each on the Let’s Talk About Books page.

Barbara Gallagher, Chair

Spring Plans for THIS/AAUW International Coffee Conversation Group

The International Coffee Group will have  its final meeting on May 11 at a luncheon at the home of Karen Russo.  Food will be provided by volunteers and diplomats. This will be our last event until September.

Members of the AAUW Arlington Branch are welcome to join the group.  For more information please contact Priscilla Becker. (See Branch Directory for her phone and email.)

Priscilla Becker, lead

Volume 78, Issue  4

March/April President’s Message

Good day to all of you!  And we will whisper that the COVID/Omicron is showing less impact throughout the world right now. We can only hope it continues, and we shall see if that diminution continues. Keep your fingers crossed.

Our AAUW state conference is scheduled March 26, and in-person will occur that day. Registration is open now, but we will send you the link. The Virginia General Assembly is very busy right now, and we hope you have been contacted to write supporting letters to your legislator about solitary confinement ending in prisons, or allowing paid sick leave for family emergencies, or budget amendments that could add controversial spending for private schools or delete funding for school
construction or staffing that is critically needed. Your involvement is key to action FOR VIRGINIA AND VIRGINIANS.

Become concerned, knowledgeable, and advocate to make this Commonwealth a safe place for you, your family, our resources, and our future.

Karen Darner and Terry Bratt , Co-Presidents

Arlington AAUW Program Updates

Many of us were privileged to attend, via zoom, the statewide  panel discussion on “How to Create Inclusive Spaces” with excellent panelists, including our own Arlington member Krysta Jones.  Krysta, along with Dr. Somya Dwivedi-Burke and Jonathan Zur helped us understand the value of inclusive environments where folks feel comfortable freely expressing their opinions and points of view.

We are planning for our upcoming Arlington AAUW meetings in March and April and want to share plans so you will be ready to join us!

Annual Meeting in March

On Saturday, March 19^th, we will hold our Annual Meeting at 10:30 am, via zoom, where we will elect our Vice-President and Assistant Vice-President for Membership, Treasurer and Secretary, along with consideration of by-law changes and other branch business.  This meeting is important as we move forward in supporting the goals of AAUW for women and girls!!

April Meeting – Arlington Girls STEM Awards Celebration

On Monday, April 18^th, at 7 pm, via zoom, we will hold our Arlington Girls STEM Awards Celebration where we will hear from, and honor, the top young women winners of the APS Science Fair competition.  This year we plan to invite younger girls who participate in the Rosie Riveters Program we learned about at our meeting last September so they can hear from some teenaged role models!! This should be fun – join us!!!

Check out our full program of meetings on the Meetings page on our website.

Meg Tuccillo, VP Programs

Bylaws Changes

Member Vote On Bylaws Change At March 19^th Annual Branch Meeting

After discussion at the January meeting, the Board of Directors voted to submit a change in branch dues to a vote of our membership, which will be part of the Annual Meeting on March 19th.

In our current bylaws, new members pay half-price when they join between Jan 1 – March 15. (Article IX, Section 3. b.) In recent years, this practice was ended by AAUW at both the national and state levels but it is still in our branch bylaws. During the discussion at the Board meeting, the Membership VPs noted that this provision unnecessarily complicates the dues structure, and it has not been effective in attracting members. This is especially true since this ½ price dues provision was removed from the national and state bylaws. 

Amending the bylaws requires an affirmative vote by 2/3 of the votes cast. A change in dues also requires, in the presence of a quorum, an affirmative vote by 2/3 of the votes cast.

A statement of the exact changes proposed in the bylaws to effect this change in branch dues and the rationale for the changes will be sent at least 20 days in advance of the Annual Meeting with the rest of the materials requiring a vote by the membership.

Current bylaws are on our website at:https://arlington-va.aauw.net/files/2021/04/Bylaws-Arlington-Branch-rev-May-2020.pdf.

Carol Dabbs, Bylaws Chair

Arlington AAUW Branch Nominations for 2022-24 Offices

Vice President, Membership

Candace L. Lilyquist joined the Arlington branch of AAUW in 2020, because of the organization’s ongoing work in equity for women and girls. She has been a member of AAUW on and off for 20 years. Candace is active in local politics; serves as an orientation chair and regional leader in her professional organization Association of Field Service Employees (AFSE); and is the secretary/treasurer for her condominium association. In addition, Candace has held numerous leadership positions (including all executive roles) in her professional organization, League of Women Voters, and in her church affiliations. Candace is an Organizational Specialist with the National Education Association. She has lived in Texas and Virginia but is originally from Minnesota. 

Treasurer

Mary Mace Spatz brings experience to the treasurer position as she was elected by the Board of Directors at the March 3, 2021, meeting to complete the term of Gloria Rothman, who resigned. Mary was given a life membership in AAUW when she finished her master’s degree in Secondary Science from GW University as a graduation gift from her mother, Lucyle Mace (who was President of the AAUW Arlington Branch 1982-84.)  Unfortunately, Mary did not have the time to enjoy the lovely gift for many years, between raising her two children, and following her husband to assignments overseas to Hawaii and England. And when she did live in the DC area, she was busy teaching anything from General Science to AP Biology and AP Chemistry in FCPS. One of her great joys was helping the girls in her Science Honor Society at Hayfield Secondary School develop a monthly after school science program for the sixth-grade girls at Hayfield Elementary School.

Secretary

Denise M. Hassanein sees inspiration in this quote from K. Gibran, “A little knowledge that acts is worth infinitely more than much knowledge that is idle,” as she believes gained knowledge must be applied and shared with others, no matter the activity.

As a business owner for many years, Denise has lived here and overseas in different incarnations. Her real estate brokerage offices here provided services to Washington’s international community. Overseas, her office dealt with USAID contractors. These opportunities have given Denise insight, not only multi-culturally, but also in honing a cross-section of abilities and skill sets.

Success in most things boil down to psychology, diplomacy, and technical competence hopefully accompanied by a healthy sense of humor and flexibility.

By way of formal education, Denise holds an MBA (2015) and Grad Certificate in Global Business (2016) from Webster University, accomplished during a few years outside Virginia caring for an elderly parent. At the opposite end of that spectrum, her heart lies with the creative arts: music, theatre, and art history.

Denise hopes this bio gives you a small window into her life and believes that she will be an asset to the board team in the position as secretary,

Let’s Talk About Books

The March Let’s Talk About Books  meeting is Tuesday, March 22, 2 pm at your regular Zoom location.  Our book selection is The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett.

Our April meeting will be Tuesday, April 26, 2 pm.  Our book selection is The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim.

Shortly before each meeting Terry Bratt will send an invitation with the Zoom information. So, watch your email and come join the fun!  Look forward to seeing you then.

See all our books for 2021-22 with a brief description of each on the Let’s Talk About Books page.

Barbara Gallagher, Chair

Spring Plans for THIS/AAUW International Coffee Conversation Group:

In March we will meet at the home of Juanita Cullen on Wednesday, March 9 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

We will be meeting in April on Wednesday, April 13 from 10:30 to 12:30.  Our plans for April haven’t been finalized yet. We also expect to have a meeting in May.

Members of the AAUW Arlington Branch are welcome to join the group.  For more information please contact Priscilla Becker. (See Branch Directory for her phone and email.)

Priscilla Becker, lead

Nancy Morgan

Arlington AAUW branch members were very saddened to hear that our former branch President, Nancy Morgan passed away on January 1, 2022, at the age of 88 in Falls Church. Nancy grew up in Georgia and Tennessee and lived most of her adult life in St. Louis Missouri and Arlington Virginia. Nancy earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Computer Science. Professionally, she worked in the computer industry for more than 30 years eventually owning her own consulting business and blazing a trail for women to follow. Nancy was an early advocate of helping more women enter the field of computing. She was dedicated to uplifting women in engineering and not only served as our branch president but also served Virginia AAUW while holding several state offices.

As a young woman, Nancy was a talented seamstress who made many of her own clothes and had a knack for needlepoint. Over the years, Nancy became an avid photographer with a talent for nature photos and she exhibited her work at local photography shows. She was a master genealogist who traced her family ancestry back hundreds of years. She enjoyed cooking and published soup supper cookbooks. She took up running in her 40s and won several road races in her age groups. Nancy loved everything about England and made almost annual trips with a particular love of the Lake District.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 63 years Robert Morgan, her son Jonathan and his wife Lorrie, grandsons Nicholas and Christopher, and many other family and friends. She was predeceased by son Thomas.

A memorial service for Nancy was held on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Murphy Funeral Homes, 4510 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s foundation.

Her full obituary is here.