President Holly Spittler opened the general meeting of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) by thanking Ann Cavallero and Emily Zinsner for handling the notifications and reservations for the meeting.
The minutes of the March general meeting were provided by Kay Hurley, recording secretary, and approved. Terri Leven, treasurer, reported that she has received membership fees from three members and that a past AAUW member is planning to rejoin for the upcoming year.
Diane Gardner, vice president of membership, clarified some questions regarding the Shape the Future program, which allows new members and former members whose membership has lapsed to pay one-half of the normal price of national dues during their first year of membership. Gardner said she is hopeful that past AAUW members may consider rejoining this year.
The Nominating Committee, made up of Madeline Miles, Susan Hughes, and Patty Stromberg, presented the following candidates for three offices: Diane Gardner for vice president of membership; Terri Leven for treasurer; and Nancy Dryden for assistant recording secretary. Miles moved that the slate be approved. Motion carried.
After the business meeting, Nancy Dryden presented a program on dragonflies, during which members created beautiful dragonflies using crystal beads and wire. Dryden has led similar programs for groups of all ages and backgrounds.
While members were working on their individual dragonfly project, Dryden explained that in many cultures the dragonfly symbolizes transformation, adaptability, and self-realization. She also explained that these mysterious creatures were some of the first winged insects to evolve, some 300 million years ago. Dryden announced that the final step in the process is to attach a string and hang the dragonfly in a window where its beads will catch and reflect the rays of the sun. Members thanked Dryden for the creative, informative and fun program.
AAUW promotes equity for women, education and self-development over the lifespan. The Bradford Branch of AAUW was founded on April 16, 1921.
