Presidents’ Pen

From The Presidents’ Pen

Spring is coming. Not soon enough for me. 

March is Women’s History Month. I remember when branch members focused on contributions by Pennsylvania women in school presentations and at the Sigal Museum when my third grade grandson sat in the first row. Now he is a senior at Virginia Tech and his cousin, my only granddaughter is at UCSD studying Environmental Systems. She is proud to be a “Woman in STEM” and is volunteering on the beach in San Diego protecting baby seals and sharing information about them. 

Many of our scholarship applicants are studying STEAM courses and other exciting subjects pioneering their own history in the making. One of our recipients last year even volunteered for three of our Let’s Read Math programs this past summer. She sent a video of her appreciation for the scholarship and the opportunity to work with us. Her video was a great addition to the recent fund-raising dinner, a great event hosted by Phyllis Finger. Many members donated generously to our scholarship funds. Becky Goldenberg facilitated. Perhaps you would like to be more involved with follow-up of a recipient. A win-win program!

Our Girls Recognition Night will take place on Thursday, May 2 at the Nurture Nature Center. This event celebrates 7th grade girls nominated by their teachers for their excellence in STEAM fields. We have a great panel of local women in STEAM who will be sharing their individual journeys, encouraging the girls and answering their questions. I hope you can attend this inspiring night.

The National Women’s History Alliance has designated the 2024 theme to celebrate Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” This theme recognizes women who understand the need to eliminate bias and discrimination from individuals’ lives and institutions.” (taken from history. Com). 

In closing a couple of quotes I find inspiring:

“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” – Shirley Chisholm (1924-2005), U.S. Congresswoman.

“One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.”
― Malala Yousafzai (1997- ), Pakistani female education activist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” – Maya Angelou (1928-2014), memoirist, poet, civil rights activist.

Fran