American Association of University Women
May 10, 2021
The AAUW Manhattan Branch meeting was at 6:30 p.m. May 10 via Zoom. President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed members and guests. Usha Reddi introduced Mary Jo Myers, First Lady of K-State, who spoke on women in leadership. Mary Jo has a background in public service related to military, educational and humanitarian programs, serves on K-State’s board of trustees, and is the recipient of the 2018 K-State University Alumni Excellence Award.
Mary Jo congratulated the branch on its 100th anniversary held in conjunction with the 19th Amendment centennial and shared the story about Tennessee legislator Harry Burn who cast the tie-breaking vote, resulting in the ratification.
Myers said K-State’s International Programs provide opportunities to engage with female faculty and students, like hosting Fulbright students, Mandela scholars, and participants in multicultural programs. Moving forward as women leaders, she stressed adhering to the basics conveyed in the acronym THANKS: Thanking people, Humility, Authenticity, Notes of appreciation, Know your business, and Support network. Mary Stamey announced that the book “Teens Guide to College & Career Planning” will be donated to the public library in her honor.
President VerBrugge mentioned the group’s 100th anniversary and 19th Amendment centennial in collaboration with the League of Women Voters in banner displays and a KMAN candidate forum. The group obtained 11 members and have 17 K-State e-student affiliates. They hosted a monthly branch program, including the 6th annual International Women’s Day panel. They awarded two to four scholarships to 7th grade girls to attend a STEM summer camp and four $1,000 branch scholarships for K-State nontraditional students. They organized “Kansas Beats the Virus” projects with three other nonprofits, enhanced branch visibility on social media, donated $1,148 to National AAUW Funds, and raised funds through the GMCF Grow Green event, Dillon’s Community Rewards Program, IWD sponsorships, and a Kansas Beats the Virus grant.
The 2021-2022 branch officers were installed: Usha Reddi, president-elect; Kathy Lanksbury, board secretary; Barbara Gatewood, branch secretary; Marianne Korten, treasurer; and Mary Stamey, director-at-large. Continuing to serve are Marlene VerBrugge, President; Usha Reddi, Susanne Siepl-Coates, and Dede Brokesh, program vice presidents; Chris Herald, Membership vice president; and Karen McCulloh, director-at-large. Dede Brokesh received the President’s Award and Karen Hummel received the Outstanding Branch Member Award. The next branch meeting will be on Sept. 13.
For more information about AAUW visit https://manhattan-ks.aauw.net/ and www.facebook.com/AAUW.Manhattan, or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, May 15, 2021
American Association of University Women
April 12, 2021
The AAUW Manhattan Branch meeting was held virtually at 6:30 p.m. on April 12.
President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed attendees, including and some of the eight new members. Dede Brokesh introduced speaker Allana Parker, curator of design, Riley County Historical Museum. Her talk “The Woman’s Reason: A Look at the Women’s Suffrage Movement in Riley County,” reflected on the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and women in Riley County who helped pave the way.
Early connections were found in Riley County with leaders in the national suffrage movement, including visits by Susan Anthony, Lucy Stone, and Elizabeth Stanton. Anthony befriended Annie Pillsbury and sent her a letter and cabinet card, which are part of the museum’s current exhibit. Local women who were active in the suffrage movement included Hannah Droll, the first Riley County female elected official, and Matie Kimball who promoted women’s suffrage statewide. Kansas women won full voting rights in 1912, becoming the eighth state to accomplish this. The book “The Suffragists Playbook: Your Guide to Changing the World” was selected on Parker’s behalf for the Manhattan Public Library.
The Star Branch Report has been submitted by Marlene. Dede reported on the International Women’s Day program. Renewal dues of $83 are due. Nancy Bolsen instructed members to search “2021 National Election” on National’s website for information on membership requirements, candidates, and changes in public policy priorities prior to voting April 7-May 17. Information is available on the branch Facebook page and website.
STEM scholarships were awarded to two Eisenhower Middle School students to attend the summer program at Bluemont School. The deadlines have been extended for the AAUW Branch Scholarships due April 19 and the Kansas State Board NCCWSL Scholarships (due April 30). Registration is still open for the Kansas Spring Conference on April 17.
The officer slate was unanimously approved. Officers will be installed at the next meeting at 6:30 p.m. on May 10. Mary Jo Myers, First Lady of K-State, will speak on “Women in Leadership.” For more information about AAUW visit www.manhattan-ks-aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, April 17, 2021
American Association of University Women
March 8, 2021
The 6th annual International Women’s Day celebration, sponsored by the AAUW Manhattan Branch, was held virtually on March 8. President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed the 57 attendees. IWD is a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The 2021 theme “#ChoosetoChallenge” encourages people to call out gender bias and inequality to create a more inclusive world. Event sponsors were Sunflower Proofreading Plus, LDB Architecture & Engineering, S&N Design and Nancy Bolsen.
Program moderator Usha Reddi said she thought IWD is especially important this year because of the increased challenges to women during the pandemic. The IWD panelist of four women with origins outside of the U.S. answered questions on their backgrounds, what they missed, traditions, surprises living in Manhattan, gender equity, education and racism. Niloufar Fattahi is a K-State doctoral candidate in chemical engineering, originally from Tehran, Iran. Laura Belozerco, a native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the executive designer for Victoriana Gifts. Rose Ndegwa from Kenya is working at Emory University and was previously an export control compliance officer at K-State. Sidonia McKenzie from Kingston, Jamaica, is an economics doctoral candidate. Panelists agreed that the most missed items are family, friends, and foods. They said some traditions in Jamaica, Kenya, and Argentina are similar to the U.S. Kenya also celebrates some Muslim holidays. Niloufar finds it difficult to celebrate Iranian traditions in the U.S. They spoke about issues including gender pay gaps, gender roles and women in politics.
Mary Stamey thanked the panelists and announced that the book “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World” will be donated to the Manhattan Public Library in their honor with an inscribed bookplate. Allana Saenger-Parker will talk on “The Woman’s Reason: A Look at the Women’s Suffrage Movement in Riley County” at the next branch meeting at 6:30 p.m. on April 12. For more information visit www.manhattan-ks-aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, March13, 2021
American Association of University Women
February 8, 2021
Members and guests were welcomed to the AAUW Manhattan Branch meeting via Zoom on at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 8 by Mary Stamey.
Susanne Siepl-Coates introduced speaker Fanny Fang. She serves on the Manhattan Alliance for Peace and Justice and was a 2020 candidate for a district 2 seat on the Riley County Commission. Fanny’s talk focused on “The Experience and Vision of an Asian Entrepreneur.” Her parents immigrated to New York City from small villages in Fuzhou, Fujian. They met in New York and started a restaurant in Chinatown. Her parents relocated to Zanesville, Ohio, then to Salina, and eventually to Manhattan, opening up a Chinese buffet. After closing the family restaurant in 2010, they opened the Asian Market. Fanny helped to transition the family business into an international grocery store with products from more than 50 countries.
She said the COVID pandemic had a significant impact on the Asian Market. A COVID exposure temporarily closed the market, but they uploaded their products online and developed a curbside service. Their business was recently rebranded to Mama Fang’s Asian Market. Her vision for the market is to build it into a multicultural hub for the state. Fanny suggested learning about why things are the way they are in our community, engaging with minorities, having conversations among yourselves, and supporting the black community. Mary thanked Fanny and announced that the book “Girl CEO: Priceless Advice from Trailblazing Women” will be donated to the Manhattan Public Library on her behalf.
The meeting opened with committee and officer reports. Susanne provided an update on the International Women’s Day plans for 7 p.m. March 8, with panelists confirmed from Argentina, Iran, Jamaica and Kenya. Sponsorship opportunities are available. The community is invited to attend.
Chris Herald announced new members Lynn Ewanow, Barbara DeSanto and Olivia Collin. Mary reported a balance of $5,250.95, an IWD donation of $25, and $62.91 in Dillons Community Rewards. Tresa Landis announced that the state board will be supporting three scholarships for women to attend AAUW’s National Conference for College Women Student Leaders on May 25 and 26. The Early Bird $95 registration fee is due by Feb. 28. AAUW members are encouraged to review and vote in April and May on the proposed changes to eliminate the degree requirements for membership.
The AAUW Microintervention Workshop webinar will be discussed via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 22. The nominating committee will present an officer slate at the March board meeting on March 1. The AAUW of KS Annual Meeting will be held virtually on April 17. More information is available at aauw-ks.aauw.net/. For more information about AAUW visit www.manhattan-ks-aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, February 13, 2021
American Association of University Women
January 11, 2021
Twenty-three members and nine guests were welcomed to the AAUW branch meeting via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 11 by President Marlene VerBrugge. Programs co-vice president Usha Reddi introduced speaker Teresa Rynai Parks, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Manhattan (BLM MHK). Teresa is an active community member, a K-State graduate and employed at Flint Hills Job Corps. She serves on the RCPD Advisory Board and the Development, Equity and Inclusion Task Force. She co-organized the BLM march on June 2 with Jayne Cole. She said BLM activities have expanded to help the community in other ways, like voter registration and winter-wear coat drive.
Teresa has been part of the community since age 10, but grew up in a “disadvantaged setting.” She said her first encounter with the RCPD as an abused runaway was positive, resulting in a good working relationship on BLM events and related conversations on inequities in law enforcement. She said inequities also exist in accessibility to housing, transportation, health care, and mental health issues, which often go unaddressed in black families, resulting in punitive measures.
Teresa also discussed allies, future events, publicity, current issues, and racism. Alliances have been formed with community members, RCPD, City Hall, and other organizations, such as the Be Able Community Center.
Mary Stamey presented Teresa with the book “When They Call You a Terrorist (Young Adult Edition): A Story of Black Lives Matter and the Power to Change the World” to be donated to the Manhattan Public Library.
Marlene VerBrugge opened the meeting, recounting the items sent earlier. International Women’s Day (IWD) subcommittee chair Usha Reddi gave an update on plans for March 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. with potential panelists from Kenya, Iran, Jamaica, Argentina and possibly Thailand. Community leaders/elected officials will be invited. The City of Manhattan will make an IWD proclamation. Publicity includes flyers and announcement in K-State Today, social media, and KMAN. Dede Brokesh reviewed the sponsorship document for seeking support for the IWD event. Members should notify a subcommittee member (Reddi, Brokesh, Siepl-Coates, or Gatewood) by January 18 of persons or companies you would like to contact. Feb. 15 is the deadline for including contributors in publicity at the diamond and gold levels.
Tresa Landis reported on the National Fund donations received online in 2020. She will email information on the next Town Hall meeting at 9 a.m. Feb. 6. Marlene proposed taking advantage of AAUW’s National webinars. A selected webinar would be viewed on your own then discussed together on Feb. 22. Members should review the list of nine webinars and send their top two picks by Jan. 22.
Members should notify Marlene if interested in serving on the Nominating Committee. Contact Mary Stamey about participating in The Great Decisions interest group on at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 21 with the first topic on global trade.
The next board meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 1. Fanny Fang will be speaking on “The Experience and Vision of an Asian Entrepreneur in Manhattan” at the next branch meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 8. For more information about AAUW, visit www.manhattan-ks-aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, January 17, 2021
American Association of University Women
December 14, 2020
AAUW President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed 22 participants to the branch meeting via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 14. Programs co-vice president Susanne Siepl-Coates introduced Jayme Minton, support services director, Meadowlark Hills. Julie earned a K-State degree in sociology and anthropology and is a 10-year Meadowlark veteran serving many roles. Her talk on “Meeting the Needs in Long-term Care Facilities” outlined the impact of COVID on the 500 employees and 400 residents, noting the challenges to keep people safe and meet changing requirements. The restrictions have limited resident choices. Operational procedures also have varied, depending on the living unit. The campus was closed in the spring, then reopened somewhat, but has closed again because of the second COVID wave. She said they strive for a balance between safety and emotional well-being. Testing and activities are closely monitored, but they haven’t been COVID-free. A book will be donated to the Manhattan Public Library on her behalf.
President VerBrugge opened the meeting. The branch is seeking members by Jan. 4 to serve on nominating committee. Matched donations to the AAUW National Fund campaign can be made online until Dec. 31. Historian Joan Strickler shared information on the dinners hosted by AAUW at K-State in the 1930s, usually in honor of a well-known person.
State Board Liaison Tresa Landis reported on the State Board town hall via Zoom on Nov. 14, attended by six branch members. The board approved a progressive national dues increase: $62 (2021-22), $67 (2022-23), and $72 (2023-24). A vote on the degree requirement for AAUW membership will be voted on in the spring or summer. Another town hall meeting will be held on Feb. 6, and the state meeting is scheduled for April 17, 2021. The Manhattan branch will host the 2023 state meeting.
International Women’s Day committee Usha Reddi, Dede Brokesh and Susanne Siepl-Coates are working on IWD plans for March 8. Usha reported that an international virtual panelist format will be used. The theme is “Choose to Challenge.” The event is open to the community. Dede Brokesh proposed a three-tiered sponsorship level with benefits: diamond ($100), gold ($50), and silver ($25).
Dede Brokesh reported on the two brainstorming sessions via Zoom to discuss the “Kansas Beats the Virus” initiative. This initiative is being coordinated by the Kansas Leadership Center to facilitate getting COVID under control in Kansas. The strategy is to mobilize Kansans in groups to generate ideas on how to stop the virus spread through behavior-changing projects in local communities. There is a $500 stipend for each group that meets.
Teresa Rynai Parks, Black Lives Matter Manhattan organizer, will speak via Zoom on “The Black Lives Matter Challenges” at the branch meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 11. The next board meeting is at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 4. For more information about AAUW visit www.manhattan-ks.aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, December 20, 2020
American Association of University Women
November 9, 2020
AAUW President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed 21 members and three guests to the branch meeting via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 9. Programs Co-Vice President Susanne Siepl-Coates introduced Julie Gibbs, director of the Riley County Health Department. Speaking on “COVID and Health in our Community,” Julie discussed case statistics, testing and contact tracing, collaboration, information dissemination, steps in staying open and the process of getting prepared.
COVID swabbing is done locally at Via Christi, K+Stat, Konza Swabbing Station and by healthcare providers. RCHD partnered with KDHE to provide seven free testing sessions. RCHD has 10-12 contact tracers who obtain information and monitor positive cases and contacts.
Other RCHD services include Public Health Clinic, WIC Services, Maternal and Child Health Care Programs, Raising Riley, and Child Care Support.
AAUW participants asked questions related to COVID vaccines, future restrictions, noncompliance fines/repercussions, and safety protocols submitted by sororities/fraternities and businesses. Mary Stamey announced that the book “Heroes Wear Masks: Elmo’s Super Adventure” will be donated to the Manhattan Public Library on her behalf.
President VerBrugge opened the meeting with highlights from the Nov. 2 board meeting. A secretary and director-at-large are still needed. Treasurer Mandy Gaulke emailed details for sending donations for AAUW Fund drive either online through Dec. 31 or by sending a check to Mandy by Nov. 18.
Archives Chair Joan Strickler gave a historical overview of the KSAC radio station at K-State (1924-2002) and AAUW’s monthly radio talks on topics such as preschool nursery and inheritance laws.
Marlene gave kudos to the 19th Amendment Committee for their League of Women Voters partnership in displaying voting and 19th Amendment centennial banners/posters 11 times around Manhattan.
Branch meetings will continue via Zoom through May 2021. Jayme Minton, support services director at Meadowlark Hills, will speak at the Dec. 14 meeting on “Meeting the Needs in Long-Term Care Facilities.” For more information about AAUW, visit www.manhattan-ks.aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, November 15, 2020
American Association of University Women
October 12, 2020
The American Association of University Women met Oct. 12.
AAUW President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed 27 members and guests to the Zoom program and meeting. Special guests were introduced.
Dede Brokesh introduced speaker, Christy Rodriguez, executive director of the Flint Hills Regional Council. The title of the presentation was “What is the Flint Hills Regional Council?”
The Flint Hills Regional Council is a voluntary service association of city and county governments in the Flint Hills region that provides services to the region. The Kansas county governments included in the FHRC are Clay, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Riley, Pottawatomie, and Wabaunsee.
FHRC serves as an official economic development district. This allows the council to apply for funding through the Economic Development Administration for 25 FHRC member jurisdictions.
VerBrugge, called the meeting to order. Mary Stamey, membership co-vice president, said that the group currently has 43 members. The renewal date has been extended to Oct. 31.
Mandy Gaulke, treasurer, announced that donations to National AAUW to support Star Branch designation can begin now. If sending a check, mail so Mandy receives it by Nov. 18. Online donations can be made on the national website through Dec. 31. Members should use their member number when donating so the branch receives credit. Call Marlene VerBrugge or Connie Noble if you do not know your member number.
Marlene said that the group will co-sponsor the virtual candidate forum with the League of Women Voters from 2 to 5 p.m. on Oct. 18.
Connie said any changes to the member directory in the yearbook should be sent to her by Oct. 31. She will then update the yearbook and send the final condensed version via email. The full yearbook and the condensed version will be on the website in the members-only section.
In recognition of the branch’s 100th anniversary this year, Joan Strickler shared a history tidbit from the 1930s. The local AAUW branch supported a traveling library for rural schools in the area. Branch members took on duties such as cataloging the books and providing some financial support for the project.
Rebecca Bahlmann sent application information for AAUW’s fellowships and grants to various entities and people at K-State.
AAUW National has posted a press release with a statement on the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. This can be viewed on the national website.
“Tea for Three: Lady Bird, Pat and Betty” is a one-women performance Elaine Bromka has been doing for many years. Because of COVID 19 restrictions, she made the show into a streamed performance that can be used as a fundraiser. Marlene will explore possibilities with Elaine Bromka before the next board meeting on Nov. 2.
The AAUW State Board is hosting a town hall from 9 to 10 a.m. on Nov. 14. They will discuss the dues increase being proposed by National AAUW. They will also discuss the elimination of the degree requirement, virtual meetings and how branches are doing in the state during these challenging times.
The next branch meeting is at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9. The program is “COVID and Health in Our Community” by Julie Gibbs, director, Riley County Health Department.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, October 18, 2020
American Association of University Women
September 14, 2020
President Marlene VerBrugge welcomed participants to the monthly meeting of the Manhattan branch of the American Association of University Women via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 14. Awards were presented to outstanding members: Maurine Pruitt received the President’s Award, Mandy Gaulke received the Outstanding Branch Member Award, and Nancy Bolsen received the Named Gift Honoree.
Co-Program Vice President Usha Reddi introduced Rich Vargo, who has served as Riley County clerk for 24 years and coordinates the county elections. Rich presented a program on the election process and answered questions on mail-in ballots, electronic voting, polling places, security and postal delivery.
Mary Stamey thanked Rich for his program and announced that a book will be selected and donated to the Manhattan Public Library on his behalf.
VerBrugge opened the business meeting with reports from the Sept. 8 board meeting.
Co-membership Vice President Chris Herald stated the group has 43 branch members, 17 KSU student members, 13 national members, and two new members (Melody Pooler and Laura Downey). Chris welcomed guest Lynn Ewanow. Treasurer Mandy Gaulke reported the board approved the budget and the current checking account balance. Fundraising ideas are being explored.
Jane Mullen will help collect AAUW Funds. Yearbook Chair Connie Noble announced the 2020-2021 Yearbook will be available soon with a traditional web version and the shorter print version. Webmaster Barbara Gatewood reported on website and Facebook updates and membership links on the website to facilitate enrolling and paying dues.
Stamey gave an update on the 19th Amendment Committee activities and AAUW/LWV banner/poster display events to commemorate the anniversary and encourage voting in the upcoming election. A photo op was held on Aug. 18 at the Riley County Office Building. Displays were held on Women’s Equality Day, Aug. 26 at Westloop Shopping Center and Triangle Park and Sept. 12 at the corner of Humboldt Avenue and N Third Street. Ten display events have been planned, and assembly application permits have been submitted to City Hall. The next event is from 1 to 2 p.m. Sept. 26 at the corner of Tuttle Creek Boulevard and McCall Road. Karen Hummel reported that 12 “Register to Vote” yard signs with QR codes for registration will be displayed around town until Oct. 13. Twelve “Vote” yard signs will be displayed from Oct. 14 to Nov. 3.
Marlene announced that six branch scholarships were awarded to K-State students. The board approved a $25 memorial contribution for Helen Janes to the Sunflower Fund. Information about the Dillon’s Community Rewards program is in the yearbook.
The next branch meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 12. Christy Rodriguez, Flint Hills Regional Council Director, will give a talk on “What is the Flint Hills Regional Council?” Persons interested in learning more about AAUW in Manhattan may go to manhattan-ks.aauw.net or email manhattanksaauw@gmail.com.
Printed in the The Manhattan Mercury, Club News section, September 27, 2020