Dear Members,
Over the past two weeks, I was able to travel to see my youngest grandson graduate Cum Laude from Norfolk State University, my alma mater. As I reflect and rejoice in this wonderful occasion, I think how grateful I am to have grandsons who had the opportunity and access to continue their education at institutions of higher learning. I am cognizant of the fact that marginalized people do not have the same level of support and access as my grandsons. As we continue our advocacy, it is important that we do what we can as an organization to support efforts to provide pathways for all students to reach their full potential. I would like to also congratulate all other fall 2022 graduates.
Just as my grandson is moving to the next phase of his life, and new adventures in the new year, I am also excited about upcoming programs and fundraisers for AAUWSA.
So, what can we look forward to in the New Year? First, is fundraising. Fundraising is very important and ongoing for AAUW National as well as AAUW branches. National had to cut more than two thirds of their staff. This affects how well and when they respond to branches and their needs. In order to alleviate budget constraints, it would be nice for members to donate to their Greatest Needs fund. This will allow them the needed flexibility in managing their operations budget. The operations budget accounts for 4% of the overall AAUW budget.
In addition to giving at the national level, your local AAUWSA needs additional funds to support programming throughout the year. Here are four ways you can support:
1. AAUWSA’s ongoing fundraising continues with the annual raffle donation. This year we tried automating the raffle donations to save on operational costs. You still have a chance to win the $300 or $100 VISA card. The drawing is January 7, 2023.
2. Champagne and Chocolates in February (Book Scholarship)
3. Bingo in May (Branch donation to National)
4. You can donate at any time to our local branch.
Second, for the New Year, we can look forward to exciting program. Listed, are events happening the first four months of the year:
January
As you review our past monthly programs, you can follow our investigation of access to STEM/STEAM education by local girls and marginalized youth that would lead to increased employment in those sectors by women and other marginalized groups. Last month our speaker indicated that the CAST schools were located in some of the lower income areas, and open to all students. However, being accessible and open to all are two different things. In this case, access to the schools by marginalized children was not available. On January 19, a group will visit The Institute of Cyber Security to learn what it offers, to whom it is offered, and accessibility.
February
Get excited! February will be the first month of in-person General Meeting for AAUWSA. This is a hybrid meeting so the meeting notice will provide the address for those meeting in person and the Zoom link for those attending from home. We look forward to seeing you in “real life”!!!
March
March is Women’s History month. Kathy Dicke is asking for volunteers to help develop and deliver a program to the students at the Young Women’s Leadership Academy of San Antonio. The program will provide information on AAUW, and how it is relative to them now and in their future.
Also in March, we may be attending the San Antonio City Council meeting. That is still a work in progress. We will email Constant Contact updates.
April
We will present the graduate scholarship winners to the membership. This should be a highly attended meeting. Look for more on this meeting as we approach April.
Lastly, please go to the Texas AAUW website (click here) to read more about our lobbyist, Kate Kuhlmann, and the legislation she will be following for us.
I hope you have a wonderful and peaceful Holiday season!
Diane Claiborne-Carr
President
AAUW San Antonio
“The New Year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written.” Melody Beattie
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