club NEWS – AAUW

The Manhattan Branch of the American Association of University Women met January 14 in the Cottonwood Room at the K-State Student Union. President Nancy Bolsen expressed appreciation to the Women of K-State for providing coffee and dessert.

Tresa Landis introduced the speaker, Angie Miller.  Ms. Miller has been an educator for 15 years and currently teaches seventh grade mathematics at Eisenhower Middle School.  She has received numerous recognitions and awards as a teacher and recently was honored in Washington, D.C. as a recipient of the 2012 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

She said she appreciated the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas with the other teachers being honored.  According to Miller, the teaching emphasis today is on building a Common Core Initiative, a nationwide effort to assure that all children receive the same standard of education throughout the country.  In the past, standards have largely been left to be developed by each state.

Nancy noted AAUW has a history of advancing educational, professional and economic opportunities for women and girls and is placing an emphasis on education related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

The local branch, in cooperation with KSU, will bring a $tart $mart Workshop to the campus next October.  The workshop is intended to prepare women to negotiate successfully for salaries and benefits.

Torry Dickinson reported on assistance the branch has provided to Zeta Phi Beta, a service sorority at KSU, in submitting a proposal to AAUW National for a Community Action Grant.  The Zetas are requesting $6,700 to support their efforts in leading a Girl Scouts Beyond Bars Troop.  The Troop is composed of girls dealing with the painful issues of having a mother in or currently released from prison.  The grant would be used to expand the scope of educational and other enriching experiences that can be offered the Scouts utilizing resources at K-State, the branch and the community.

Barbara Gatewood reported half priced dues are now available to members recruited after January 1 for a half year membership.   Vina Paul, Patricia Flores, Meaghan Morton and Barbara Amoah were welcomed as new members.

Tresa Landis announced the next meeting will be held at the First Congregational Church on Monday, February 11.  Debi Rogers, Director of Cereal Chemistry with the American institute of Baking, will talk about, “The Fun Side of Science”.

Membership in AAUW is open to anyone holding an associate or equivalent (RN), baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university.  Student affiliation is open to anyone who does not already hold an undergraduate degree and is enrolled in a two or four year regionally accredited educational institution.  Students enrolled at K-State may receive a free e-Student affiliation.  For more information, go to http//manhattan-ks.aauw.net, email manhattanksauw@gmail.com or contact Barbara Gatewood at 539-8804.