Why I am a Member of AAUW?
A latecomer to the college world, graduating in 1990, I was honored by a gift membership from my friend, Elaine! Membership has brought me timely information, opportunities for hearing interesting speakers, a broader view of local and national issues, and new acquaintances and friends who work and volunteer in many venues. The "W" in AAUW represents to me a Window to Women in the World. - Rosemary (Rochester Branch member)
~ What can I do? ~
Here are just a few things... "YOU" can do as a member of the Rochester Branch of AAUW
1. Become an informed citizen...
by attending general meetings and study groups which include speakers and timely information. See the links on our website for the Newsletter, Calendar, and Study Groups.
* Please join us for our Annual Educational Foundation Luncheon on Saturday, March 21 (11:15 am) at the Willow Creek Golf Course. Our featured speaker will be Breanna Bly, Rochester School Board, who will speak on "Closing the Opportunity Gap." We will also announcing the names of our members who will be honored for their accomplishments by having our EF contribution made in their name. AAUW Science Fair winners will honored. A silent auction will also be held with all proceeds benefiting the Educational Foundation. Reservations and payment of $20.00 are needed by March 16. Contact Beth Nienow for more information. See you there!
* February's General Meeting was held at the Charter House on Feb 21 and featured Jean Michaels who spoke on "Issues that Face Women in Today's World." Upcoming events include: EF Luncheon on March 21, volunteer opportunities with the AAUW/Salvation Armny Thrift Store Volunteer Group, and our many ongoing study groups. Support other community events such as Cookie Creations on March 26 which benefits the Girl Scouts. Also, a big congratulations to AAUW Action Network members and AAUW coalition partners for their hard work on the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.
2. Promote the vision and mission...
of AAUW by becoming involved with community AAUW Projects such as College is Possible! We can Help!, Regional Science Fair, Mayo Women's Cancer Conference (October), Beat the Odds, Women's Shelter project and Join the Journey (September).
Attending Beat the Odds 2008.
3. Advocate for important public policy issues...
relevant to today's women. Please review the upcoming Minnesota AAUW Resolutions that will be discussed at our state convention in April. One of these resolutions includes embracing the "spirit and aims of the Earth Charter by informing all members and encouraging them to participate in the global partnership for a just, sustainable and peaceful world and to work for the realization of the values and principles of the Earth Charter." Click here for more information about the Earth Charter and here for the actual document.
Contact your Congressperson! Write letters to the editor! Click here for up-to-date information about women's issues. Keep your eyes open for information about the Paycheck Fairness Act.
4. Develop leadership skills and network...
within the community of Rochester, the state of Minnesota, the country of the U.S., and the world.
5. Financially support...
the AAUW Educational Foundation which provides fellowships and grants to women seeking to advance education, research,and self-development for women and to foster equity and positive societal change. Our Rochester Branch fundraisers include: Apache Mall Event, EF Minnesota Getaway Packages, and the March Luncheon. Also support the AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund which provides case support and funding for women who are seeking judicial redress for sex discrimination. Our Rochester Branch fundraisers include: a silent auction, Quarters in Canisters, and a book sale.
Click here for membership information.
~ Yearbook Notice ~
The deadline for the 2008 yearbook is October 31. If you have any additions or corrections please send them to Kathy Lawrence. If you don't receive a Yearbook in November by mail, let Julie Caesar or Kathy Lawrence know and one will be sent to you.
Thank you for your interest in AAUW, Rochester, Minnesota. Please check out our links above and if you have any questions, contact any of our members, check out our Contact Us Section, or send an e-mail to the Rochester AAUW Branch President