University Woman Texas
Volume 72 l Issue 3 l December 2020
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Message from the President
As 2020 finally draws to a close, let us reflect on the good things that happened as well as the difficult ones. I have been impressed, but not surprised, by the resiliency of AAUW women. Our branches have switched gears from in-person to virtual meetings, scarcely missing a beat. Our members worked on Get Out The Vote initiatives that helped Texas see the greatest voter turnout EVER! The Orange branch, for the second time this century is recovering from multiple hurricane damage - and a train derailment - but still their members renewed and persevered. Your state board has also morphed from in-person to virtual meetings and continues to look for ways to support our branches. The November outreach Zoom calls allowed branches to visit and share more wonderful ideas. The next round of calls will be in February. Your State Board will meet on the first Monday evening in January, March and May. Please reach out to your District Representative if you have questions or information to share.

Stay healthy and wear your mask,
Gloria Long, AAUW Texas President
Legacy Circle welcomes the newest Texas member,
Pat Sanford of the
San Antonio Branch  

Top 10 ways to give smarter at the end of 2020

1. Deduct $300 without itemizing
This year only! You can deduct $300 of charitable gifts without itemizing. The $300 limit is one per tax filing unit. (So, married couples filing jointly don’t get $600.) This must be a cash gift paid to an operating nonprofit. (So, not to a donor advised fund.)
2. Deduct up to 100% of your income
This year only! You can deduct up to 100% of your adjusted gross income using charitable gifts of cash. These gifts must go to an operating nonprofit. (So, not to a donor advised fund.)
3. Combine a Roth conversion with a donation
A Roth conversion moves money from a standard IRA into a Roth IRA. The benefit: all distributions from the Roth IRA are tax free. (Even distributions of future growth are tax free.) The downside: the money moved into the Roth IRA counts as immediate income. However, this year only, up to 100% of income can be offset by charitable deductions. This includes income created by a Roth conversion. If you already have a multi-year charitable plan or pledge, donating it all this year and combining with a Roth conversion might make sense.
4. Make IRA gifts @ age 70½ +
IRA accounts have no required minimum distribution (RMD) in 2020. But those age 70½ or older can still make gifts directly from an IRA to a nonprofit up to $100,000. This gift donates pre-tax dollars. The earned income is never taxed because it goes directly to the nonprofit.
5. Move your 401k/403b into an IRA rollover now to prepare for future IRA gifts
RMDs will return next year for those age 72+. A qualified charitable distribution from your IRA or IRA rollover reduces RMD. It’s a great way to give! To do this with a 401(k) or 403(b), you must first convert the account into an IRA rollover. But conversion requires first taking any RMD from the 401(k) or 403(b). You must pay taxes on that distribution. You can avoid that by making the conversion this year. There are no RMDs in 2020. So, you can convert your 401(k) or 403(b) into an IRA rollover. And you can do it without paying any taxes, even if you are age 72+. Then, you’ll be set up to make future donations from your IRA rollover whenever you want.
6. IRA gifts @ age 55 – 70½
IRA withdrawals during this age create no penalties. But they are taxable. However, this year cash gifts can be deducted up to 100% of income. If you are already itemizing deductions this can help offset the tax impact from an IRA withdrawal.
7. IRA beneficiary v. gift in a will
Many people like to include a charitable gift in their will to support a cause that has been important in their lives. One tax smart strategy is to leave part of an IRA, 401(k), or 403(b) account to a nonprofit. (It’s easy to change account beneficiaries by contacting the financial institution.) Why is this smart? Because heirs pay income taxes on this money. Starting this year, heirs (except spouses) must take out all funds (and pay taxes) within 10 years of inheriting. But any part left to a nonprofit avoids these taxes. So, if you’re leaving anything to a nonprofit, use these accounts first.
8. Make a charitable swap: Give appreciated investments WITHOUT changing your portfolio
Donating appreciated assets creates TWO tax benefits. The tax deduction is the same size as a gift of cash. (The asset must have been owned for a year or more.) PLUS, you avoid paying capital gains tax. With a charitable swap, you donate old shares of stock and immediately purchase new shares in the same company. Your portfolio doesn’t change. But the capital gain is removed. (There is no waiting period. Why? Because this is gain property not loss property. So, the “wash sale” rule doesn’t apply.)
9. Take an immediate deduction for donating inheritance rights to homes or farmland
Many people like to include a charitable gift in their will. But you can donate the inheritance rights to farmland or a home using a special deed instead. Doing this creates an immediate income tax deduction. Right now, these deductions are large because interest rates are low.
Example: A 55-year-old donor deeds the inheritance rights to $100,000 of farmland before the end of 2020. The donor gets an immediate income tax deduction of $90,371. The donor keeps the right to use the property for the rest of his life. It’s deductible because, unlike a will, the donor can’t change his mind once the gift is made.
10. Bunch gifts with a donor advised fund
The 2018 tax law created much higher standard deductions. Fewer people can use charitable deductions because they aren’t itemizing. One way around that is to “bunch” charitable gifts. Example: A donor puts 5 years’ worth of donations into a donor advised fund. The donor takes a tax deduction for the entire amount in that year. Because the deduction is so large, the donor itemizes in that year. In later years, the donor makes gifts to charities from the fund. This creates no tax deduction. But in those years the donor takes the standard deduction instead of itemizing.

Remember: These are just a few ideas to discuss with your tax advisor. They may not apply in your situation.

To learn more about how your gifts can make a lasting impact at AAUW, contact:
Heather Miller at 202-785-7766 or by email at millerh@aauw.org.
Faculty Opportunities
from AAUW National

Representation of women in higher education
faculty and executive positions is skewed.


Apply for one of AAUW’s grants or
fellowships to prepare for advancement.

More information can be found on:

For individuals, AAUW branches and states, and nonprofit organizations that fund innovative programs or that promote education and equity through projects focused on encouraging girls to select, before entering college, the physical sciences or engineering as a career.
Opens August 1

For women conducting basic research in engineering, medicine or the physical or biological sciences and who have a doctorate degree in one of those fields. Grantees are required to publish their research in a scholarly scientific publication and be listed as a primary author.
Opens August 1

For women pursuing full-time study in a master’s or professional degree program in which women are underrepresented, including STEM, law, business and medicine.
Opens August 1

Prepare for these opportunities for next year.
The deadlines are usually in the fall
so prepare and make plans………….

For women pursuing full-time study to complete dissertations or conduct postdoctoral research, or to those preparing research for publication for eight consecutive weeks.

For women pursuing a certificate or degree to advance their careers, change careers, or reenter the workforce in education, health and medical sciences, or social sciences and whose bachelor’s degree was received at least eight years before the award period.

For women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the United States who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Getting ready for the 2021 Texas Legislature
 
Today is not too soon to start contacting your Texas legislators, even though the 2021 Session will not open until January. The members have been elected, and they have already begun filing bills to be introduced. AAUW Texas is focusing on alternate ways to engage the state legislators, since personal visits during the usual “Legislative Days” event is unlikely to happen. Observing social distancing and other safety practices will continue to favor virtual plans for interaction.
 
One example of a virtual advocacy plan was presented at the public policy Zoom meeting on November 17, when Dawn Ellison, Public Policy Chair for Tarrant County Branch, described that branch's “Interviewing Legislators Project.” She and other branch volunteers are preparing to contact some county legislators now and monitor all county legislators’ actions in the next session. They have chosen four local legislators in different districts of their county, three representatives and one senator. Teams of two volunteers (an interviewer and a note taker) plan to interview each legislator by mid-December, in order to get acquainted, to learn about his/her main legislative interests and issues, and to match some of them with AAUW's mission and public policies. 
 
Thirty-minute interviews will be set up on Zoom. The interviews are not recorded and legislators do not receive the questions in advance. An article summarizing the key findings of the interviews will be included in the branch newsletter. Afterward, a spreadsheet will be used to to track county legislators' votes during the 2021 Legislative Session as determined from information on the Texas House and Senate websites. 

Here is the link to the capitol directories:
 
There are wonderful things going on in the Central District despite all the restrictions and restraints of COVID-19. Almost all branches will be celebrating the holiday season with some kind of get-together albeit mostly virtual. 

So from Marsi Liddell, your Central District Rep., best wishes for a safe, sane and healthy holiday season.
IN MEMORIAM
This past year we have lost several of our treasured members. Let us take a moment to remember what they meant to our organization.
Katherine Davis Anthon
10/19/1947 - 9/1/2020

Long-time AAUW member Kathy Anthon of Houston, TX died September 1, 2020, six years after being diagnosed with Pre Frontal Dementia with Lewy Bodies. (It is the second most common cause of dementia and mirrors the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.) She is survived by her husband George Anthon.

Kathy became involved in AAUW after moving to Texas because she was drawn to the focus of the organization. She stayed because of the people and the mission. Growing up in Seneca Falls, NY, Kathy was steeped in the Women's Rights movement and well educated on the roll Seneca Falls played in equal voting rights for all. That passion and desire for fair treatment for all is why she identified with AAUW’s mission and goals.

Most recently, Kathy was a member of the North Harris County branch of AAUW in Houston, TX. Prior to coming to Houston in 2013, Kathy and George lived in Grapevine, TX. She was a long-time member of the Northeast Tarrant County branch, where she held multiple offices, including branch president from 2004-2006.

Besides serving her local branch, Kathy was also president of the North Texas Interbranch Council, Legal Advocacy Fund Vice President for the AAUW Texas State Board and served a two-year term on the national AAUW Board of Directors from 2009-2011, as a Director at Large. She was a liaison for multiple committees, served on the committee for the Conference of State Leaders and was not only one of the first Legacy Circle members in her branch but also in the state of Texas. Her example and commitment inspired many other members and today, Northeast Tarrant County AAUW has one of the largest contingents of Legacy Circle members.

While in Grapevine, Kathy was active with the Greater Irving/Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, where she served on the Board of Directors. She also participated in the Susan G. Komen 3 Day Walks, United Way and Junior Achievement efforts and volunteered at a Grapevine resale shop whose profits provided temporary housing and a health care.

Kathy’s first career was as an educator for the Buffalo, NY, public school system. She joined the Buffalo Public Schools after acquiring a BS in Education from Buffalo State. By 1977 she had become head of the Home Economics department for the Buffalo school system. While working she completed an MS and Certificate of Advanced Study in Public Administration.

After a move to Phoenix, AZ, in 1980, Kathy became involved in the telecommunication industry. By 1982, she was Sales Manager for the group. In 1995, she and George moved to Grapevine, TX.
North Harris County Branch
Linda Massie, 76, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend, lost her battle with salivary gland cancer in July at her daughter’s home in Houston. Linda was clever and kind, generous and resourceful, and lived life to its fullest. An avid reader, she belonged to several book clubs and Bible studies. She was a member of many organizations, including North Harris County AAUW, PEO (a philanthropic organization raising money for women’s scholarships), and Northwoods Presbyterian Church, her cherished church home. 

A spirited competitor, Linda was an accomplished bridge player who would encourage and tutor friends new to the game. She and her late husband Steve traveled the world together, a passion she continued after his passing, traveling with friends and with her children and grandchildren. She and Steve imbued their children and grandchildren with a passion for hiking and exploring National Parks, a gift for which her family will always be grateful. She loved wine-tasting, museums, art, Broadway musicals, and the Houston Symphony, and she particularly enjoyed sharing these experiences with her family.

Linda taught in Klein ISD for over 20 years, teaching third graders and gifted and talented students. Many of her students still remember her and would often reach out to say hi to their favorite elementary school teacher.

Marjorie Rice passed away on September 16, 2020. Marjorie obtained her Bachelor of Arts from Culver-Stockton College and her Master’s degree from the University of Iowa in library science. She began her career as a copy editor writing and presenting commercials at WTAD Radio and KHQA TV in Quincy, Illinois. In Houston, Texas she served as the librarian at MacArthur High School and later in the Public Relations Department of the United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Marjorie devoted many hours to community organizations. In Quincy, Illinois she often acted in productions with the Quincy Community Theater. While living in Houston, she delivered “Meals on Wheels” for the Northwest Assistance Ministries, volunteered at the Barbara Bush Library Friends Book Store, and was an active member of the North Harris County Branch of the American Association of University Women. As a member of AAUW since 1992, Marjorie, enjoyed friendships with other members who enjoyed traveling around the world, attending operas, discussing books and politics, and gambling for quarters over Mah Jongg.
Austin Branch


Mary Humke died on October 30, 2020 after a long illness. Even while ill, she continued to participate in AAUW activities and was a valued member of her book group. She loved the adventure of travel and had been to all continents. Mary was a 1965 graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point and held a B.A. in Education. She joined AAUW in 1975 and became a member of the Austin Branch when she moved to be near family.
Nancy Myers. Nancy was an AAUW member from 1949 until her death on March 15, 2020 at the age of 92. She joined AAUW in 1949 after graduating that year from Purdue University with a B.S. in Mathematics. Nancy served as a Purdue University trustee, was president of her local school board, and was chair of the Indiana CPA Board. Nancy joined the Austin Branch of AAUW after moving to be near family. She was Austin Branch president and treasurer; plus Texas State treasurer; active in study groups and in fund-raising; and was a good person to say, “yes,” when asked to help.   
Iilene Payton. Long-time AAUW member and branch member Iilene Payton died in February. She had moved to Sugar Land to be near family but maintained her Austin Branch membership. In earlier years, she helped with fund-raisers and was an active member of the AAUW community. She is especially remembered as a member of Pears and of the Art Tours Group. Iilene was a 1955 graduate of the University of Nebraska with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and joined AAUW in 1973.
Jenny Lind Porter Scott died June 27, 2020 at age 93.  She was president of the Austin Branch in 1968-1969. Jenny Lind received her B.A. and M.A. from Texas Christian University and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Texas at Austin. She was a devoted teacher and a well-regarded poet. She held academic positions as professor of English, including at Huston-Tillotson College (now University) in Austin and earned the title of Poet Laureate of Texas in 1964. In 1985, Jenny Lind was inducted into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame and she was honored with burial in the Texas State Cemetery. 
Dale Willimack died December 29, 2019 at age 91. She was Austin Branch president in 2006-2007. Dale graduated from the University of Texas in Journalism, though her career was as an association executive. She worked for the Texas Medical Association as their Annual Program and Convention Coordinator for 37 years and was honored by her professional association for her contributions. Family members wrote that, “Dale was not only career driven, but a loving mother and grandmother, writer, traveler, dog lover, and passionate advocate for education and women’s equality in the workplace.”
Arlington Branch

Elizabeth “Betsy” Johnson Pense died February 29, 2020. She was a long time member of the AAUW Arlington branch and was selected recently as our Woman of the Year. 

Betsy attended Austin College for her undergraduate degree and received her Master of Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. She was one of the first women ordained by the Presbyterian Church in 1969. She served as an Associate or Interim Pastor at many Texas churches before retiring in 2011. 

She was an avid reader and a member of several book groups including one in AAUW. 

She was active in the community and served on the boards of New Day, a charity providing meals to children and Texas Camerata, an acclaimed classical music group.
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Northeast Tarrant
County Branch

Linda Whistler, a member of AAUW Northeast Tarrant County Branch since 2014 passed away on December 2, 2020. Linda fought valiantly against the Cancer that engulfed her body.

Linda and her husband, (Bob) Robert resided in Bedford Texas for many years. Linda and Bob recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They were regular attendees of dinner clubs, especially AAUW NETC Gourmet Group. They have two daughters and a granddaughter.

Linda enjoyed traveling with her husband and daughters and was an avid card player.

She was involved in the community as a member of AAUW NETC and the Midcities Womens and Newcomers Club and volunteered for local nonprofit agency, NEED as well as delivering for Metroport Meals on Wheels.

Linda had a quiet dignity amid chaos and she will be missed by all who knew her.
Tarrant County Branch

Linda Allmand, Nov. 21, 2020, graduated with honors in Library Science and History from North Texas State University. She completed her M.A. in Library Science at the University of Denver. In 1981, Linda assumed the directorship of Fort Worth Public Library. She immediately prepared a Long-Range Plan because many of the branches and Central Library were in need of renovation. She revived the Friends of the Fort Worth Public Library and grew its membership. Under her leadership, three new branches were built: Southwest Regional, Diamond Hill/Jarvis and East. Linda partnered with the Amon Carter Foundation and the City of Fort Worth to automate the entire Fort Worth Public Library holdings. She led the project to construct an outer shell over the Central Library to correct years of leaks.

A professional librarian for over forty years, she served as President of the Texas Library Association in 1987.

She received many professional honors, including being named Librarian of the Year in Texas. AAUW Tarrant County Branch fondly remembers Linda as their President in 1999 and for the mentoring and opportunities she offered to fellow librarians.
Elected Officers  
Gloria Long
Melodia Gutierrez
Barbara Cager
Margie Poole
Diane Roberts
Mary Smith

Elected District Representatives
Betsy Calabro
Marsi Liddell
Sara Wood
Emelia Hoefle
Lucy Barrington

Standing Committees
Ann Berasley
Pat Rehm

Appointed Positions
Crystal Gacia
Lynn Hagan
Karen Reichensperger
Marina Rivers

Communications Team
Malinda Gaul
Janani Janakiraman
Pam Wolfe

President
Program VP
Membership VP
AAUW Funds VP
Finance Officer
Secretary


South District
Central District
North District
North District
West District


Bylaws/Parliamentarian
Public Policy


Diversity and Inclusion
SHARE Grant Coordinator
College/University Rep
Branch Services


UWT Editor/Email Communications
Website
Website/Facebook