Maureen Kraker and I wish to thank the members of AAUW -WHC for their encouragement, support, and participation in this year’s charity style show. Without these members, the event would not have been as successful as it was.
Serving on the committee were Kathy Bliss (program and flyer design), Sharon Jorgensen (refreshments), Carolyn Morris (representing TBT), and Poteleme Sappenfield (greeting).
As members and guests arrived, they were greeted by Poteleme Sappenfield who presented each with a door prize ticket, a store discount ticket, the program book (printing underwritten by Dr. Heather Wilmore) and a long stem white rose (donated by Ed Alami in memory of his wife, past president, Susan Alami).
From the welcoming table, members were directed to the refreshment table (hosted by Sharon Jorgenson and Maureen Kraker). After receiving a glass of champagne and appetizer, they were provided with ample time to browse through the racks of beautiful clothes. At 6:15, the style show began. However, before the first model walked down the red carpet, a raffle ticket was drawn, and the first of four door prizes was awarded. (Hiltraut Benham and Cherilyn Jackson were responsible for the beautiful door prizes).
As the models walked down the runway, they were greeted with enthusiastic applause and cheers. The nine lovely models were Mickie Adams, Kathy Bliss, Maggie Chapman, Kate S. Conlan, Poupette Farnell, Mary Hilton, Kathryn Motard, Debbie Rossi, and Michelle G. Taylor.
In closing, Maureen Kraker thanked Chico’s/Soma for their assistance and their offer to host the event on the first Sunday of May in 2025. Maureen and I are looking forward to May 2025 and welcome any suggestions you might have to make next year’s event better.
Helen Santire, AAUW Funds VP
Benefiting AAUW Funds
Why are we raising funds? The Tyler 75th Anniversary Fellowship is the only incomplete Fellowship from Texas. This year our goal is to help the Tyler Branch complete this American Fellowship Endowment.
How important are American Fellowships? They are awarded to help with dissertation completion, research leave from accredited universities, and preparation of research for publication. Candidates are evaluated on the basis of scholarly excellence, quality and originality of project design, and active commitment to helping women and girls through service in their communities, professions, or fields of research.
AAUW fellowship funding helps women manage the growing burden of student debt, an issue that disproportionately affects women. Unique to AAUW’s program, funding may also be used to pay for expenses outside of those traditionally associated with academic study, including child care and transportation — necessities that can help recipients continue, return to, and successfully complete graduate programs.