The application deadline for the Ballot Question Study Committee has been extended to July 27. To apply, click here.

At the LWVMA 2017 Convention, we approved a new state study of the ballot question process in Massachusetts, which will be conducted over the next two years. We are currently putting together a study committee to develop study materials and questions. Local League consensus meetings will likely be in the fall of 2018 through early 2019, leading to a position presented to Convention in 2019.

For details see the July 14 email. Please send this link to anyone in your League who might be interested. Questions?  Contact lwvma@lwvma.org.

Energized by the wave of newly activated members drawn to the League since the November election, 100 state and national League leaders from 43 states came together last month at the biennial LWVUS Council meeting to refine the League's emerging strategy for organizational transformation.

The goal is to create a vibrant and sustainable League for the 21st century, reclaiming our reputation as the premiere defender of democracy and the authoritative voice on the election process - registering and turning out new citizens and the next generation of voters representative of the entire U.S. population.

The working premise is that achieving this vision by 2020 requires Leagues at all levels to speak with one voice and move toward more diversity, a modern infrastructure, the nimbleness of a "movement" mindset, a greater tolerance for risk, and more investment and influence. This, of course, while reaffirming our foundational values.

The assignment at Council was to explore specific action steps on five transformational objectives to advance the journey. The mood was energetic, with the prospect of change viewed as positive and significant for a bright future for the League. Trust and camaraderie were the order of the day.

Click here to download a graphic overview of the work ahead as we endeavour to collaborate across all levels of the League to strengthen our organization, raise our profile and increase our impact. We were honored to attend Council and are excited for the LWVMA to be part of this forward-looking effort.

Linda Matys O'Connell and Mary Ann Ashton, LWVMA Co-presidents

From LWVUS: The 100th Anniversary Committee has developed the 100th Anniversary Toolkit 

to help every League participate in our centennial campaign as we approach 2020. This Toolkit includes anniversary logos, social media graphics, messaging guidelines and more to help you get started with the celebration. This is just the first piece in the collective campaign-so stay tuned for more tools and tricks to celebrate in the months ahead.

For personal reasons, three Board members have recently resigned. We are sorry that Roz Broch and Shelley Drowns will not be continuing their service. Jean Cherdack resigned from the LWVMA Board but will continue as a Scharfman Trustee.

We thank Jean, Shelley, and Roz and trust they will find other ways to work with LWVMA in the future. Roz served on the Board for two years, and contributed her perspective and enthusiasm, especially in the areas of membership and on the Scharfman Grant Committee. Shelley served for two years as board secretary and chair of the Charter School Study Committee. Jean has done yeoman service as president for the last two years, and we are extremely grateful for her commitment to the League.

The Board remains very strong. We continue to think about others who might consider joining the Board and are committed to adding members as seems timely and appropriate. If you have an interest in Board service or know someone who does, please reach out to co-presidents Mary Ann Ashton or Linda Matys O'Connell.