Category Archives: Uncategorized

Winter ’26 Marylander

AAUW’s mission is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.

Volume 94 #1, Winter 2026

President, Heather Reichert | Editor, Roxann King | Email | AAUW Maryland Website | Winter ’26 Marylander PDF

Table of Contents:

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Greetings to all Maryland AAUW Members! We are deep into the holiday season. I hope everyone can enjoy fun, safe and warm holidays with family and friends.

Fall Meeting

I think everyone in attendance will agree that the Fall Meeting hosted by the Anne Arundel branch was incredibly educational. We explored a topic that is not often discussed as part of the diversity, inclusion and equity sphere.

Once we overcame the technical challenges, our three speakers enlightened us about the history of native women in the Maryland area, how tribes have created their own systems to educate their population, as well as very serious issues faced by indigenous women across the country. We are hoping to have the video of the presentations available on the website at some point soon.

U.S. Department of Education Updates

The current administration’s attempted destruction of the DOE is a primary focus for AAUW National. This week, there is somewhat positive news: the DOE has recalled approximately 200 laid off staff members from the Office of Civil Rights to help with the increasing backlog of civil rights complaints from students and families. I know that Meghan Kissel, AAUW’s Public Policy leader, has mentioned that not addressing the civil rights complaints is one of the most egregious acts of the administration.

Maryland Matters reported on December 8, “In order for OCR to pursue its mission with all available resources, all those individuals currently being compensated by the Department need to meet their employee performance expectations and contribute to the enforcement of existing civil rights complaints,” the email to the staff noted.

On the other hand, the department spokesperson also said, “The Department will continue to appeal the persistent and unceasing litigation disputes concerning the Reductions in Force, but in the meantime, it will utilize all employees currently being compensated by American taxpayers.”

So, we should be aware of any new efforts that AAUW develops to combat the efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. The bottom line is that we must continue to keep an eye on what is happening at the Department of Education.

Public Policy

Our state Public Policy (PP) committee got kicked off in November with introductions to new members, a survey to determine each person’s state representatives, and discussion about the MLAW proposals for next year’s General Assembly. We will have submitted our votes for the bills by the time this newsletter gets out, so thank you for your participation.

The PP committee includes the public policy representatives from each branch and branch presidents. However, other interested members are welcome to join and participate in our meetings, bill tracking and lobby day. Please contact me to be added to the PP committee email list.

Upcoming key dates for Public Policy are:

January 14: Maryland General Assembly convenes – Annapolis
January 31: Women’s Legislative Briefing – Universities at Shady Grove, Rockville
February: MLAW’s Legislative Briefing (date TBD)
February/March: MD AAUW Lobby Day (date TBD)

In addition to our state advocacy efforts, please continue to respond to the Action Alerts from National. One alert came in today for another Civil Rights problem, this time at the Department of Justice. And I will mention again that all members are strongly encouraged to join the Capitol Hill Lobby Corp. AAUW Maryland members at the Fall MLAW conference on November 1.

Funds

I wanted to share a recap of the donations made to National through November 2025. Our members have made significant contributions so far this year. The total donated to the available, unrestricted funds is $30,268! Here are some key facts about our donations so far this year:

129 donations have been made
Folks in every branch have made donations
Kensington-Rockville has the highest number of donations
Our goal of $10,000 for the Public Policy General fund is more than 50% achieved!

Winter Board Meeting – Zoom

I’m looking forward to the Winter Board meeting. The date and time were announced at the Fall meeting: Sunday, January 25th at 1pm. Agenda and zoom link to follow. The state board members and branch presidents are expected to attend this meeting. Other members can attend, as well. To RVSP, send email to aauw-md@aauw.net. All Board members will receive links.

Thank you to everyone for your continued support of the State organization as well as keeping your branches active. Please stay informed and feel free to contact me with your comments and ideas.

Happy holidays and have a great New Year!

Heather Reichardt
President
AAUW Maryland

HEADS UP! – MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

By Jeanne Blades, Vice President for Membership

As of April 1, 2026, there will be a $2.00 increase in AAUW national dues moving from $74 to $76 for the upcoming fiscal year. The good news though is that the Shape the Future Campaign still gives a 50% discount for new members or for those who rejoin after a two-year absence from AAUW.

In addition, all $76 remains tax deductible, just as in the previous year. Remember as a member, you can take advantage of a variety of discounts from long-term care to car rentals and travel discounts to UPS shipping rates, and more!

Just go to AAUW.org/membership and click on Discounts and Perks to check it out. Also, as a member you can easily choose the information that you’d like to receive from AAUW and how AAUW communicates that to you. Just go to aauw.us/emailoptions or log into your Personal Snapshot and scroll down to and click on My Preferences to always be informed and involved in our mission to advocate for gender equity to make a difference in the futures of girls and women.

AAUW Maryland dues will also increase, from $10 to $14 on April 1, 2026.

MAKE PLANS NOW TO ATTEND THE 2026 AAUW ATLANTIC STATES REGIONAL CONFERENCE!

By Tracy Lantz, AAUW Maryland

As you’ve likely heard, the 2026 AAUW Regional Conference Unfinished Revolution: Together We Stand, is being planned for September 25-27 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Please plan to join your friends and AAUW colleagues from 13 states at the Lancaster County Convention Center & Marriott Hotel in Lancaster, PA .

I’ve just received the details regarding the conference registration fee! Early bird registration is $249 until July 19, 2026, and $295 thereafter. Here’s the conference link: https://www.aauwatlanticregionalconference.net/

Be sure to make your room reservation as soon as possible! The special discounted rate is available before Tuesday, August 25, 2026; Friday, September 25, 2026 to Sunday 27, 2026, 2026 at $225 per night plus taxes with a 2-night minimum.

Also, be sure to indicate that there will be two adults in your room if you plan to have a roommate. This will assure that you are assigned a room with two beds. But trust me, the room block will be full before August! Of the block there are only about 50 rooms remaining.

These will fill up fast! If you are planning to attend, please make your reservation as soon as possible. You don’t want to miss out on the fun! Parking is an additional fee of $15 per day. Your room reservation may be cancelled up until the week of the event.

We’ve secured an amazing group or speakers on current topics of interest to women in the Atlantic region as well as individuals who will address the AAUW Policies for 2025-2027: Education, Economic Security, and Social Justice and Civil Rights.

Our own Kate Campell-Stevenson of the Kensington Rockville Branch will perform her one woman show on Friday evening, September 25th. We are also excited to confirm that Dr. Susie Mosser of the Garrett Branch will be one of our presenters! Stay tuned for more details on the program.

The location of our conference, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a wonderful city and one of America’s oldest inland cities to date. It served as Pennsylvania’s capital from 1799 to 1812. It is full of history and the location of the conference is in the middle of the city, with walking distance to many restaurants, coffee shops, the Central Market, wineries, breweries, and shops. Additionally, Lancaster has several fall festivals during this time of year, which may offer additional opportunities for exploration outside of the Regional Conference.

Looking forward to seeing you there! Please contact me, tklantz@verizon.net, or Heather Reichardt with any questions.

BRANCH ACTIVITIES

Howard County Branch News
Condensed from the Branch Newsletter, Diane Roca, editor

Howard’s Holiday Luncheon on December 7th featured a silent auction to raise funds for scholarships at Howard Community College.

Presidents Beth Hayden and Suzanne Soules, Diane Roca, and Cindy Graham represented our branch at the Howard Community College Educational Foundation Donor Appreciation Lunch on November 17.

Several years ago, our branch established an AAUW – Howard County Branch Scholarship Fund within the Foundation. This year we funded scholarships for six students in the Parent Scholars Program. Branch fundraisers throughout the year provide the money for our scholarships.

Anne Arundel County Branch News
Condensed from the Branch Newsletter, Nan Jarashow, editor

Anne Arundel’s Holiday Brunch on December 6th included collecting needed items and funds for Chrysalis House, an addiction treatment center in Anne Arundel County. Our book sale activities are finally over for 2025. Net earnings of just under $15,000 will be used to fund our scholarship programs and branch operations.

JOIN US FOR BLUEPRINT DAY 2026: AAUW MARYLAND WILL BE THERE!

We are excited to invite you to join us, student advocates, and community partners for Strong Schools Maryland’s 5th Annual Blueprint Day, a statewide rally celebrating the promise of education.

Together, we will gather in Annapolis to lift up the future of Maryland schools and call for continued progress on and full funding of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. This event will feature student and advocacy organization tables, special guests, resources, and community activities. We hope to see you there!

This year’s rally takes place on Monday, February 9th, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lawyer’s Mall, 100 State Cir, Annapolis

BRANCH ALIGNMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES

AAUW 2025 Strategic Plan
Branch Right-Sizing Toolkit
Branch and State Affiliate Community Action Grants
Branch Five-Star Program: Criteria, FAQ, Resources, Tips, and Successful Branches
Bylaws Toolkit: National bylaws and model bylaws
Community Hub Tutorials
Fundraising Policies: Policies and FAQ
Fundraising Reference Guide: Found on the Five-Star page under Advancement Star resources
Right-sizing Toolkit for Leadership Roles, Events, and More:
Until it is posted on the AAUW website, contact your state or branch president for the file.
Volunteer Leader Position Descriptions: President, Finance, Fund, C/U, STEM

ADVOCACY, ISSUES, AND PROGRAMMING

Take Action: Advocacy Toolkit, Election Resources, Policy Updates, Public Policy Priorities, Two-Minute Activist

MEMBERSHIP RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION

AAUW Webinars
AAUW YouTube Channel
College/University Member Toolkit
Degree Equivalency Membership Policy (see Appendix A therein)
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Plug and Play Programming
DEI Toolkits (Did you know there are 16 of these? Explore!)
Membership Matters Newsletter (Click on Membership Matters, the second listing)
Shape the Future
State and Branch Tools

THANK YOU TO AAUW MARYLAND LEADERS

AAUW MD Elected Officers (Executive Board)

Heather Reichardt, President (2024-2026)
Edie Allison, Vice Pres. for Programs (2025-2026)
Jeri Rhodes, Vice President for AAUW Funds (2024-2026)
Lydia Alcock and Susana Hernández Martín (2022-2026) and Roxann King (2025-2026), Co-Vice Presidents for Communications
Deb Daniel, Vice Presidents for Public Policy (2025-2027)
Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (2023-2027)
(Vacant), Secretary (2023-2025) (volunteers welcome & thanks to those who have helped this year)
Jeanne Blades Vice President for Membership (2023-2027)

AAUW MD Committee Chairs (Current Appointed Members of the Board)

Carolyn Fisher, Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
Terry Sayler, Archivist
Eileen Menton, Member of the Bylaws Committee
Judy Carbone, ERA Taskforce Chair
Regional Event Planning Committee: Tracy Lantz, Carol Mueller, and Heather Reichardt
2026 Nominating Committee: Jacqueline Gray (Baltimore), Kate Campbell Stevenson (Kensington-Rockville), Pat Stocker (Bethesda-Chevy Chase), with Anita Rosen (past chair, ex officio)(Kensington-Rockville).

Thanks also to each Branch President, who is also a member of the Board of Directors!

Please don’t hesitate to volunteer for the vacant position of AAUW MD Secretary. Contact Heather Reichardt or any member of the board if you have any questions or to volunteer.

AAUW Maryland encourages members to consider serving on the State Board.

Get the most out of your AAUW experience! Serving as a Branch or State board member is an excellent opportunity to learn new leadership skills that can help in other areas of life. Service on a Branch or State board also builds connections and close friendships with fellow AAUW members.

Please contact any member of the 2026 Nominating Committee (listed above) or other officer if you would be interested in any of the following positions to be elected at the 2026 Convention:

President
Program VP
Funds VP
Communications Co-VP
Secretary

CALENDAR 2026-27

January 25, 2026, 1 p.m. – AAUW MD Winter Zoom Board Meeting. If not a board member, send an email RSVP to aauw-md@aauw.net to receive the meeting link.
February 9, 2026, 6-8 p.m. – Blueprint Day on Lawyers Mall in Annapolis
September 25-27, 2026 – AAUW Atlantic States Regional Meeting

~ Happy Holidays! Don’t Forget to Register Early for the 2026 Regional Conference! ~

Fall ’25 Marylander

AAUW’s mission is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.

Volume 93 #5, Fall 2025

President, Heather Reichert | Editor, Roxann King | Email | AAUW Maryland Website | Fall ’25 Marylander PDF

Table of Contents:

Thank You to AAUW Maryland Leaders
2025-26 Calendar

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

I’m writing on August 26, which is Women’s Equality Day. This day was officially designated by President Gerald Ford on August 22, 1974, and recognizes the day that women gained the right to vote in national elections in the United States. Women’s suffrage was the first of many advances in women’s rights. But, after 105 years, we still do not have equal rights.

According to the 2025 Gender Parity Index produced by Represent Women, only Oregon, Maine and New Hampshire have established near parity (but not 100%) in women’s political representation. Maryland received a “C” grade, which seems unusual. Maryland still does not have 50/50 representation at the state and federal level of political positions. With our new Public Policy team of Barb Carter and Deb Daniel, we will have an opportunity to influence state legislation and maybe help increase Maryland’s standing in the Index. We will keep fighting in whatever way we can to make Maryland a better place for all.

Upcoming Fall Meeting/Equity and Inclusion

At the Fall State meeting, we will learn about the history and current state of the rights of Native Americans living in the Maryland area. Please join us on October 18 in Severna Park to hear about these issues from some of the state’s experts. Details are included in the newsletter and online. Our state board meeting will start after the presentations and lunch.

Our Fall Meeting program aligns with the equity and inclusion efforts that AAUW National supports. As you may or may not know, AAUW does not receive any federal government grants or other funding. This means that AAUW can continue to support equity and inclusion.

All branches are encouraged to incorporate equity and inclusion information and issues into your programming and projects. AAUW National is creating a series of webinars related to equity and inclusion. If we all work on this issue, we can make a difference!

Summer Meeting

Thank you to everyone who attended the virtual summer meeting. I apologize again for the many issues we had with zoom. I appreciate everyone’s patience in sticking with us during the workshops and the board meeting. We shared some good news:

Every physical branch submitted the annual branch survey, so Maryland was 100% in compliance – thank you to all who helped reach that goal.
We have nearly 100% compliance on the mandatory bylaws’ updates. For those still working on them, please send them to Eileen Menton as soon as possible.
AAUW National has created two new funds to which we can donate: the Defend Higher Education Fund and the Public Policy Fund. See the article by Jeri Rhodes included in the newsletter.
With the fact that NCCWSL will no longer accommodate the Maryland Woman of Distinction fundraiser, we are in the process of outlining a new award/fundraising campaign that would culminate at the Annual Meeting.

Lobby Corps/Public Policy

As usual, I am encouraging all members to consider participating in the Capitol Hill Lobby Corps. Even if you attend only a few times, it is an experience you will remember! Additionally, we hope to establish a Maryland Lobby Corps to enhance our participation in Annapolis during the General Assembly session. In conjunction with those efforts, we will learn about many relevant legislative proposals at the MLAW conference in November. I look forward to seeing many of you at that event!

AAUW Member Webinar

National will hold a member webinar on Sept 18. Everyone should have received an email from “AAUW” with a registration link. They will discuss the branch surveys, the 5-star status, among many other topics. I hope everyone can attend.

And I hope everyone had a wonderful summer break from their regular routines and that you were able to relax and enjoy time with friends and family — either with a staycation or travelling around the globe. I will be seeing many of your either at the state meeting or your branch meetings!

Warmly,

Heather Reichardt
President
AAUW Maryland

NOTICE TO MEMBERS: PROPOSED STATE DUES INCREASE FOR 2026-27 FISCAL YEAR

At the State Board meeting on July 26 (via zoom), the topic of increasing state dues was discussed. The combination of inflation and fewer members means that the state organization has been losing money in the dues account year over year.

Based on these long-term trends, the Board agreed in a motion that the dues should increase from $10/year to $14/year. Please note that the $10 dues have been the same for many years.

This is a notification to all state members that the State Board will have a final vote on the dues increase at the Fall Meeting on October 18, 2025, in Severna Park. The increase will go into effect for the 2026-2027 fiscal year if two-thirds of the Board vote affirmatively on this issue.

The board understands that this looks like a large increase from a percentage perspective. However, this will maintain a viable funding balance for operations, and another increase is not expected in the foreseeable future.

SUMMER MEETING AND BOARD MEETING SUMMARY

By Heather Reichardt, President

Our morning program was excellent. We learned how AAUW National is dealing with the drastic changes being made to public school funding, higher education and Title IX. We also discussed the importance of using the 5-STAR criteria to plan out your branch calendar. Christine Schmitz explained the major tasks to be taken by branch treasurers.

Heather Reichardt and Del. Lily Qi, during the Spring Convention

The important discussions from the Summer 2025 State Board Meeting are:

We need a branch or branches to host the Annual Convention in Spring 2026. Heather will be contacting branches to discuss.
The Nominating Committee is searching for candidates for the 2026-2028 term. Open positions include President, VP Programs, VP Funds, VP Communications. Any of these positions could be held by two or more members working together. I encourage all members to consider a state board position. Everyone on the state board was at one time “just” a branch member!
Christine Schmitz lead a discussion of the new program year’s budget, which was approved with modifications. Several sub items were discussed, as well:
- Proposed increase in membership dues – see article boxed on page 2.
- The Board authorized the Treasurer to invest in an 8-month CD.
Funds – Jeri Rhodes mentioned National has created two new non-restricted funds, in addition to the Greatest Needs Fund, to address current issues: Defend Higher Education Fund and the Public Policy Fund. Please consider making even a small donation to each of these new funds to assist National in achieving their policy goals.
Membership – don’t forget about Shape the Future benefits that accrue with new members and VP Membership, Jeanne Blades, is requesting that branches share any good ideas for promoting new membership and retaining existing members.
Public Policy – the new team of Barb Carter and Deb Daniel is planning more local/state advocacy as well as continuing with programs such as MLAW and the Women’s Legislative Briefing.

MAKE PLANS NOW TO ATTEND OUR 2025 AAUW MARYLAND FALL CONFERENCE!

Maryland’s Native Americans, Past to Future

October 18 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church, 611 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Severna Park

By Roxann King, President, AAUW Anne Arundel County Branch

Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs with Gov. Wes Moore

AGENDA

9:00 AM: Door Open

9:30 AM: Welcome

9:40 AM: The Archeology and History of Indigenous Peoples in Maryland, Dr. Katherine Sterner, Towson University

10:45 AM: Tribal Law and the Abuse of Indigenous Women, Caroline LaPorte, Esq., Indian Law Research Center

11:45 AM: Current Issues in Native American Higher Education, Dr. Donna Brown, American Indian Higher Education Association

12:30 PM: Lunch

1:15 PM: AAUW Maryland Board Meeting

REGISTRATION

Online:
With Eventbrite (Click here to pay online)

Through mail:
Download and complete this Registration Form and mail it to Roxann King, at:

2535 Painter Court,
Annapolis, MD 21401

Make check payable to AAUW Maryland.

The 2025 AAUW Maryland Fall Conference is being hosted in Severna Park by AAUW Anne Arundel County. While you are in our County, consider spending the afternoon or evening taking in the sites in Annapolis.

Visit the museums, the Naval Academy, the dock area, the State House or any of the fine restaurants and shops. We look forward to sharing our beautiful capital city and county with you.

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

By Barb Carter and Deb Daniel, Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy

Hello, from Barb Carter and Deb Daniel! We are your new Co-Vice Presidents of Public Policy.

We are greatly appreciative of all the work Roxanne has done in sharing her expertise with us. We hope to keep up her good work. We will continue with the State Public Policy committee that includes all branch presidents and branch public policy vice-presidents as well as any member who is interested.

In addition, we will have an AAUW Maryland Lobby Corps comprised of those who are interested in physically lobbying in Annapolis. Magnetic pins to identify us as advocates are ordered. Although education is our main interest, other types of bills will be considered. We will work with MLAW to identify bills for possible support. Other bills for consideration may be proposed MCASA (Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault), Maryland Commission for Women and others as interest dictates.

Co-VP for Public Policy, Deb Daniels, uses the Maryland General Assembly website https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/ to keep track of legislation as well as advocate, testify, and send emails. She is willing to coach individual members on how to best use the system for advocacy. Every member of the Maryland General Assembly has phone contact and email address on that site.

Contact Deb for more information at debdanie1@yahoo.com. Please let Deb know soon by email whether you have access to a large-screen computer like Microsoft Windows or an Apple iPad or a Chromebook to use ZOOM. Also please note whether your mobile phone is “Android” or “Apple iPhone”.

We are considering adding members’ Delegates and Senators to the AAUW Maryland membership spreadsheet whereby individual members across the state can be contacted to email, phone, or send a letter to their personal Delegate or Senator. We are looking forward to your participation in making the 2026 legislative session a successful one.

Deb will organize a zoom meeting in the fall. If you want to be on the committee and are not a president or vice-president public policy, let us know. Contact Barb Carter at 43bcarter@gmail.com.

Mark your calendars. MLAW (Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women) has scheduled November 1 for its presentation bills being considered for 2026 legislation. Saturday, November 1, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, MLAW’s 2025 Fall Agenda Conference will be held at the Meeting House in Columbia. Tickets are already available at: Women Lead in Maryland: Protecting Our Rights Tickets, Sat, Nov 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite. See the attached flyer. See the link for details.

In November/December, we will be looking for your priority list of the MLAW bills to determine where we will concentrate our energies. Additional bills may be added later. Then we move on to activities with the General Assembly that is in session from January 14 to April 13 in support of the bills on our legislative agenda.

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

By Jeanne Blades, Vice President for Membership

Shape the Future Campaign

As you know, this is a great opportunity to offer 50% off National dues to new members. Then, for every two new members that join, your branch earns one free National membership, up to 3 free memberships per year.

To check out the number of free memberships your branch has earned just go to aauw.org/membership, scroll down and click on State and Branch Tools, then scroll down and click on Learn More About AAUW’s Shape the Future Campaign.

Click on Status Report to find the number of free memberships your branch has earned. Click on Redemption Form to claim your free memberships. Forms must be filed by October 31, 2025.

Renewal Reminders:

For those branches that have opted in, National sends out 4 email reminders when memberships are about to expire. All reminders go out on the week of the 20^th of the month. The first reminder is sent the month before the membership actually expires, then an email reminder in that month of the expiration, and then, if necessary, for 2 months after the month the membership expires. There is a grace period of 90 days to renew.

The June Membership Matters newsletter (6/26/25 email) has an excellent chart showing the renewal reminder schedule. It’s easy to renew online. If you’d like a video tutorial or screenshots of how to renew online this just go to aauw.org/membership/new-systems-update/.

Now you’re on the Community Hub page, so just scroll down to the video tutorials to How to Self-Renew for Existing Members or scroll down further to the screenshots.

Changing or Updating an Email Address:

There are two ways you can change your email address for your AAUW membership:

Online – Go to AAUW.org/membership and log in. Once logged in, use My Contact Information on your Personal Snapshot page to update your personal information, including your email address. Scroll down and hit SAVE.
Contact AAUW directly – You can email connect@aauw.org with your member number and the information needed to update your profile, including your new email address. Alternatively, you can call the AAUW helpline at 800-326-AAUW (2289) and ask to speak with someone in the Membership department to assist you with the change.

Speaking of Emails:

If you are not receiving AAUW email announcements and would like to re-subscribe to them, just go to aauw.us/emailoptions, or log into your Personal Snapshot and scroll down to and click on My Preferences. On this page you can choose the information that you’d like to receive from AAUW and how AAUW should communicate with you.

Check out Discounts:

Yes, we all could use some help saving money. Just go to AAUW.org/membership and click on Discounts and Perks for savings on long term care, car rentals and travel discounts, UPS shipping rates, and more!

FUNDS REPORT

By Jeri Rhodes, Funds Chairperson

AAUW Maryland has been committed over many years to supporting National AAUW with funding above and beyond our payment of dues. Our members have been generously supporting individual grants, the “Greatest Need” funding (9110) and of course, our multi-year support of the Women of Distinction event at the NCWSSL conference.

AAUW National has asked members to continue their support of the “Greatest Need” funding, which provides the National Board with some flexibility to apply those funds in strategic places. AAUW Maryland members have met – and continue to meet – that request.

National has also created two new funds, specifically designed to fund initiatives for the years ahead – one is a Public Policy Fund (4337) and the other is the Defend Higher Education Fund (4513). While Maryland members of AAUW have supported both areas, we are proud of the work our Public Policy leadership has accomplished in the Maryland legislature over the past years. It is fitting for us to actively support National’s work in this area. And we do – besides funding, we have members of Lobby Corps and we support specific actions made by National.

The State Board would like to actively fund the National Public Policy Fund in recognition of the importance of the work, but also to honor past and present State members who have made a difference in our state. We propose that we set a goal of $10,000 for this fiscal year and, at our Annual Meeting in the Spring, we honor a member who reflects our commitment to Public Policy activism, in the state and with National.

You should see more information on this topic as we begin active fund raising. If you have questions, please let me know.

2026 AAUW ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE

By Kathy Pearre, AAUW North Carolina and Tracy Lantz, AAUW Maryland,

Hello AAUW Members of the Atlantic Region,

As we wrote earlier, the 2026 AAUW Regional Conference is being planned for September 25-27 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Committee work is underway, and we invite you to add your expertise to the planning groups, particularly the Program Committee.

We are accepting recommendations for program topics and speakers now. We will include presenters on current topics of interest to women in the Atlantic region as well as individuals who will address the approved AAUW Policies for 2025-2027: Education, Economic Security, and Social Justice and Civil Rights. Please let us know of issues you are interested in exploring further and potential speakers (and contact info for them). Contact Kathy or Tracy at aauw.regional.conf@gmail.com.

BRANCH ACTIVITIES

Baltimore Branch News
By Susan Wierman, Branch Board Member

The Baltimore Branch was recognized as the only Maryland branch to win AAUW’s 5 Star status for 2025. Branch co-presidents Yvonne Higgens and Dorothy Fraquelli led the branch and submitted documentation of extensive branch activities. For the past two years the Baltimore Branch has worked with the College Bound Foundation to provide college scholarships, and branch members have helped evaluate scholarship applications.

Additional branch activities in 2025 included voter registration events, supporting students who attend NCCWSL, attending the Atlantic Regional Conference, and holding numerous branch meetings, including one focused on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Education with a presentation and Q&A session with John Staley, the Baltimore County Public School District’s Blueprint Coordinator.

Garrett County Branch News
By Kendall Ludwig, President, Garrett County Branch

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls. Since its founding in 1881, AAUW members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political. The Garrett Branch of AAUW has been working since its creation in 1946 to bring strong women together for activities related to women’s empowerment in our community.

As of July 1, 2025, M. Kendall Ludwig, president and principal designer of CurlyRed, has taken over in the role of President. The immediate Past-President Judy Carbone is a force of nature and has done a tremendous amount of good in this region. Along with her Vice-President Linda Carr, these women have taken very good care of our AAUW-Garrett Branch chapter. Kendall hopes to honor their legacy in advancing equity for women and girls in Garrett County. Judy has kindly offered to help her, and our fabulous new Vice-President Dr. Susie Mosser, in this transition.

Dr. Mosser owns and operates her own private practice as a PA-licensed clinician working mostly with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety, Perinatal Bereavement, and Women’s Wellness. She was a doula (labor and delivery assistant) during her college years, so combining the fields of psychology and childbirth made sense. She is also a public speaker on these topics, has appeared in magazine articles for her work, and has written several books.

Her doctoral dissertation research was on the global impact of violence against women, rape used as a war tactic, the “package of victims,” (as she coined the phrase to show how not only are the mothers affected but the babies in the womb can experience long-term effects of trauma and stress in-utero), and how epigenetics can not only assist in physiological and psychological healing later in life from womb trauma, but even to the degree of phenotypic plasticity with visible changes in phenotype traits. From her research, she created brand new neologisms to add to the field along with new therapeutic treatments. With several certifications and dual degrees in reproductive psychology, ecological psychology, and environmental humanities, Dr. Mosser continues to be an advocate for the minoritized.

Susie has been an adjunct psychology instructor at Garrett College for several years and will be a full-time visiting professor this fall in addition to her psychology practice.

Garrett County Branch shared needed supplies with women
attending their Women’s Equality Day event, August 26th.

If you are interested in learning more about AAUW-Garrett Branch and supporting the branch’s initiatives and programs, please visit their Facebook page or contact M. Kendall Ludwig, Branch President, at kendall@curlyred.com or 410.878.6068.

Anne Arundel County Branch gathered Aug 26th to celebrate Maryland women with a C&C.

Kensington Rockville Branch
From newsletter

Our AAUW program brings us an exciting guest speaker, Meghan Kissell, the Senior Director of Policy and Member Advocacy at the American Association of University Women (AAUW). She leads AAUW’s non-partisan and mission-driven public policy at the federal level and supports the grassroots advocacy work of AAUW’s membership network.

What is AAUW’s policy stance on Capitol Hill, and how are AAUW branches advancing women’s issues on the state and local levels? We will hear directly about issues and challenges from the person responsible for guiding AAUW policy and advocacy activities. Ms. Kissell will answer questions and share insights into the current situation for AAUW advocacy.

Bethesda-Chevy Chase Branch
From newsletter article by B-CC Branch President, Pat Stocker

During the fall, Bethesda-Chase Branch will host three interesting speakers at the Fox Hill senior community at 8300 Burdette Road in Bethesda . On September 13th, at 11 a.m., the speaker is Robert (Rob) Gordon, an expert in AI and a leader in government, nonprofit, and private sector organizations. Pat fortuitously met him waiting for a flight at Dulles Airport and was so impressed by him and his areas of expertise that she immediately invited him to speak to the branch.

The speaker for October, Chris Palmer, notes that “Death is inevitable; dying badly is not.” A good death is achievable, and he will share his perspectives from his book Achieving a Good Death. This is an issue of particular importance to women, since we generally live longer than our male counterparts.

In November, Julia Penny Clark, a noted private attorney, will tackle a topic very much in the news this year: What is the role of our federal court system, particularly the Supreme Court, in this time of rapid change and challenges to the courts? Julia Penny Clark previously served as clerk to Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court Lewis F. Powell Jr. from 1974 to 1975. She was among the first dozen women to clerk at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Visitors and members from any branch are welcome at these meetings. We have a large meeting space which can accommodate many extra people.

THANKS TO AAUW MARYLAND LEADERS!

AAUW MD Elected Officers (Executive Board)

Heather Reichardt, President (2024-2026)
Edie Allison, Vice Pres. for Programs (2025-2026)
Jeri Rhodes, Vice President for AAUW Funds (2024-2026)
Lydia Alcock and Susana Hernández Martín (2022-2026) and Roxann King (2025-2026), Co-Vice Presidents for Communications
Barb Carter and Deb Daniel, Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy (2025-2027)
Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (2023-2027)
(Vacant), Secretary (2023-2025) (volunteers welcome & thanks to those who have helped this year)
Jeanne Blades, Vice President for Membership (2023-2027)

AAUW MD Committee Chairs (Current Appointed Members of the Board)

Carolyn Fisher, Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
Terry Sayler, Archivist
Eileen Menton, Member of the Bylaws Committee
Judy Carbone, ERA Taskforce Chair
Regional Event Planning Committee: Tracy Lantz, Carol Mueller, and Heather Reichardt
2026 Nominating Committee: Jacqueline Gray (Baltimore), Kate Campbell Stevenson (Kensington-Rockville), Pat Stocker (Bethesda-Chevy Chase), with Anita Rosen (past chair, ex officio)(Kensington-Rockville).

Thanks also to each Branch President, who is also a member of the Board of Directors!

Please don’t hesitate to volunteer for the vacant position of AAUW MD Secretary. Contact Heather Reichardt or any member of the board if you have any questions or to volunteer.

AAUW Maryland encourages members to consider serving on the State Board.

Please contact any member of the 2026 Nominating Committee (listed above) or other officer if you would be interested in any of the following positions to be elected at the 2026 Convention:

President
Program VP
Funds VP
Communications Co-VP
Secretary

2025-26 CALENDAR

October 18, 2025: AAUW Maryland Fall Meeting
September 25-27, 2026: AAUW Atlantic Regional Meeting

~ Happy Fall! See you at the AAUW MD Fall Conference on October 18! ~

Summer ’25 Marylander

Volume 93 #4, Summer 2025

President, Heather Reichert | Editor, Susan Wierman | email: aauw-md@aauw.org

Click here to download the PDF version of this issue.

President’s Message

Welcome to summer – it is getting extremely hot as I am writing this in late June! I hope everyone is having a safe and cool break. Having a virtual summer meeting means everyone can attend while staying comfortable at home while engaging with fellow AAUW members.

Details regarding the summer meeting are included in this newsletter. We are excited to have Meghan Kissell, Senior Director for Policy and Member Advocacy, as our keynote speaker. Meghan will update us on AAUW National’s strategy to get all members involved in federal public policy, regardless of where you live. And, we will have two training sessions that will help all of us improve our branch operations.

Speaking of Public Policy, the DC/MD/VA Lobby Corps group has been busy this spring advocating for members of both houses of Congress to reject many provisions of the “Big Beautiful Bill” that will harm women and families across the country. The June 12 Lobby Corps Day was especially important. The National staff was able to schedule specific meetings with Senate offices, including the offices of Senators Van Hollen and Alsbrooks. Getting a briefing from Senate staff was encouraging. More information about Lobby Corps is included in Roxann’s Public Policy Update.

Carolyn Fisher and I were fortunate to be able to attend the special screening of the film Lilly at the invitation of the AAUW DC office. The film was shown in a beautiful small theatre at the Eaton Hotel in DC after a lovely cocktail hour. I did not know the entire story of how Lilly Ledbetter became the face of workplace harassment and pay inequality. Her perseverance in trying to get paid fairly, and at the same rate as her male coworkers, while working in a Goodyear tire plant, was astonishing. I hope everyone has a chance to see the movie.

Thinking ahead, note that the Fall Meeting will be hosted by the Anne Arundel branch on October 18. And, do not forget about the next regional conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, September 25-27, 2026. Make sure to mark your calendars!

“See” you on July 26!

Heather Reichardt
President
AAUW Maryland

2025 AAUW Maryland Summer Meeting

New Tools to Increase our Effectiveness for Educational Equity

Join us for the virtual AAUW Maryland Summer Meeting where we’ll discuss important topics and connect with fellow members online!

Saturday, July 26, 2025 | Virtual via Zoom | 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Event Registration: Online Registration (You will receive a Zoom link as the meeting date approaches)

This year, our event is going virtual, making it easier for members from all over Maryland to join in. Our summer meeting is a fantastic, free opportunity to connect with fellow AAUW members, participate in engaging discussions, and learn about upcoming initiatives.

Topics will include how to enhance communication with Senators and Representative in your district and on the Hill; Gain ideas for appealing events from the 5-Star survey; and understand and simplify branch financial management.

Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the organization, this event is perfect for networking and staying updated on important topics. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a supportive community dedicated to empowering women and promoting gender equity.

Mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting online gathering!

Event Agenda:

9:00 AM – Virtual meeting room will be open to say hello to old friends and meet new ones.
9:30 AM – Welcome
- Heather Reichardt, President, AAUW Maryland
9:40 AM – New Tools to Share AAUW Message with Legislators
- Meghan Kissell, AAUW National, Senior Director of Policy and Member Advocacy
10:35 AM – Training #1: 5-Star Program: Align with AAUW strategic priorities and increase your branch’s local impact!
- Heather Reichardt
- Dorothy Fraquelli
11:15 AM – Training #2: Branch Treasurer Training: Understand and simplify financial management
- Christine Schmitz, AAUW MD Treasurer and AAUW National Board Member
12:00 PM – 45-Minute Lunch break
12:15 PM – State Board Meeting – All Members Can Attend

Public Policy Update

By Roxann King, Co-Vice President for Public Policy

State News

All our legislative bills that passed and were sent to the Governor have been approved by the Governor. AAUW Maryland supported 14 bills during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly. We supported all 10 bills on the MLAW agenda of bills, as well as four additional bills. Five of the MLAW have been approved by the Governor. The Prescription Drug Affordability Board Act is now law. The Protecting Nursing Home Care Act is now law. The Newborn Nurse Visitation Bill is now law. The Abortion Care Grant Program is now law. The bill extending subsidies for young adults using the Maryland Health Exchange is now law. Two of the additional bills that we supported also won the Governor’s approval The bill directing the Maryland Commission for Women to Advance Implementation of Insurance Coverage for Over-the-Counter Birth Control is now law. The bill providing support to pregnant and parenting students in higher education institutions is now law.

So, what do branches do in the summer in Maryland? They prepare for upcoming elections by holding voter registration drives, they schedule forums for fall for elections occurring in November, and they hold events to educate members and local voters.

A mini-grant for $300 will be awarded to AAUW Garrett for this year’s Women’s Equality Day event, “WOMEN’S EQUALITY and CHILDCARE – Amplifying the Issue and Doing Our Part/Serving Our Community!” The event, with five or more partners, is intended to share information, supplies, and food with women whose families are in need. The application for this mini-grant will be available to read on the AAUW Maryland website under Tools for Leaders.

National News

The changes to AAUW public policy nationally show a strong emphasis on the traditional role of AAUW in enabling women to succeed in higher education. Threats are happening almost daily. Please be a part of the AAUW Action Network so that you are part of our collective voice in opposing these actions. Join the Two Minute Activist at: www.aauw.org/act/two-minute-activist

If you are available on Thursday mornings twice a month, think about joining AAUW Lobby Corps. Contact Kalina for more information: majercakk@aauw.org. Lobby Corps is easiest for those who live near D.C., but all are welcome! Four members of AAUW Maryland have been participating so far. Pictured are AAUW Maryland members Barb Carter, Heather Reichardt, and Edie Allison who visited the offices of Senator Chris Van Hollen, Jr., and Senator Angela Alsobrooks June 12 in D.C.

During the recent Congressional recess, AAUW members from around the country visited their Senators in protest of the Budget Reconciliation Bill. AAUW National Public Policy staff trained members on tools needed to constructively visit the local offices of their Senators.

If you are giving financial support to AAUW, please consider designating one of the two new AAUW funds supporting public policy initiatives.

4513 – Defend Higher Education Fund: The Defend Higher Education Fund will enable AAUW to elevate the critical higher education issues impacting women, mobilize advocates across the country, provide strategic resources to students, staff and faculty on campus, and fuel investments in the infrastructure and technology necessary to move our mission forward. Your support ensures AAUW can effectively fight on behalf of women on campuses across the country and ensure that AAUW remains a trusted and powerful voice for equity.
4337-Public Policy Fund: The Public Policy Fund supports the advancement of AAUW’s Public Policy Principles and Priorities. AAUW is focused on increasing the impact of our Action Network through growing the number of advocates across the country and providing timely, accurate, and actionable information about our key issues. Support to this fund ensures we have the critical funding necessary to take swift and strategic action when the rights and freedoms of women and girls are under attack.

Thank you. This is my last Public Policy Update, as Judy Carbone and I cede the public policy committee to the new Co-VPS, Barb Carter and Deb Daniels, both former PP committee members. Please welcome them and give them your support.

AAUW Official Statement on Support for Universities

“Restricting student visas, canceling research grants, and threatening universities’ nonprofit status are not acts of governance – they’re acts of political retaliation. And they jeopardize women’s contributions to innovation and progress in education and research.” (posted on AAUW’s Facebook page June 10, 2025) (See AAUW national policy updates at www.aauw.org/resources/policy/documents/.)

AAUW Maryland Convention Program Highlights

By Yvonne Higgins, Baltimore Branch Co-President

Held in Gaithersburg on April 26, 2025, the 2025 AAUW MD Convention Program was enlightening. Speakers included Delegate Lily Qi, Robyn Nietert of the Women’s Microfinance Initiative, and Bria Marie Hodge, of the Latino Economic Development Center

Lily Qi represents the 15th legislative district in the Maryland House of Delegates. As a Chinese immigrant, she spoke how the Chinese Cultural Revolution impacted society and individual lives. In particular, she felt the policing of thoughts and the anti-intellectual policies and practices of the communists to be stifling. She cited the Voice of America radio broadcasts and the writings of Martin Luther King, Jr. as beacons of hope. In 1989, she immigrated to Indiana, which was a cultural shock. She could not understand why Americans were so friendly and generous. Eventually she moved to Montgomery County, worked in academia, and became a leader in immigrant community groups. It was her community work that got her interested in politics. Her success has paved the way for other immigrants to enter the political and community activism areas. As she said, “Only in America can you run for office and be voted for by people who cannot pronounce your name.”

Delegate Qi says the public, private, and non-profit sectors need to work in their own lanes for the benefit of all society. Each has its own job to do. Another meaningful quote, “Make the most of where you find yourself.”

Robyn Nietert, President, Women’s Microfinance Initiative, started a microloan ($100-300) program 25 years ago at her dining room table. Without access to financing and opportunities, women in rural Africa need a small lift to start businesses. Along with a Uganda friend and online training from the Small Business Administration, she developed the Microfinance Initiative. The group trains women in business skills and financial literacy. Once trained, local women leaders take over the loan program. They have an amazing 98% re-payment rate. The program has expanded to include other east African countries, enabling women to start small businesses.

Bria Marie Hodge, Director of Small Business Development, Latino Economic Development Center, spoke about transforming women’s lives by providing business education, mentorship, grants, and loans for women to develop local businesses. The program, based in Montgomery and Arlington Counties, provides services to primarily Latino and African-American women in underserved communities. A quote of hers that stood out was, “A loan says, hey I believe in you.” Which is quite empowering to a woman starting a business.

Many thanks to Pat Stocker and Kate Campbell Stevenson for organizing this enlightening program.

What is AAUW’s Five Star Program?

AAUW’s 5 Star National Recognition Program rewards states, branches, or other affiliated organizations for aligning their work with the AAUW strategic plan and other initiatives that foster the organization’s mission of advancing gender equity for women and girls. The program is designed to promote cohesion between AAUW national, states, and branches and increase understanding and implementation of the strategic plan goals.

National recognition allows AAUW to acknowledge and celebrate these affiliates that advance AAUW’s mission. Through engagement and activities, affiliates can earn recognition in five major focus areas: Advancement (membership & funds), Public Policy-Advocacy, Governance-Sustainability, Programming, and Communications-External Relations.

Successful completion of each area of focus results in the receipt of a star. For example, to receive a Programming star, a branch or state would need to report holding at least 4 programs that align with AAUW’s Strategic Plan.

For the 2024-2025 year, a branch would complete a survey by June 30, 2025. Criteria are also listed for the 2025-2026 year. See the 5 Star program website for 2025 and 2026 here: www.aauw.org/resources/member/5-star-program/#FY26-Criteria

AAUW Launches New Strategic Plan

In May AAUW National announced the launch of AAUW’s new strategic plan, reaffirming our commitment to advancing equity for women and girls through education. AAUW was founded more than 140 years ago with this mission, and with the unprecedented attacks we’re seeing on higher education, we believe it is more important than ever to focus our efforts in this area.

The three priorities in AAUW’s 2025 Strategic Plan are:

Champion gender equity by directly funding and empowering pathways to higher education for women, supporting women in academia and research, and fostering women’s leadership.
Champion gender equity through education and advocacy for inclusive policies that remove barriers to success in higher education and workplaces.
Support state and branch efforts and maximize AAUW’s financial and operational strength.

Branch Activities

Anne Arundel County Branch Scholarships Awarded

By Roxann King

For over forty years AAUW Anne Arundel County Branch has been able to provide scholarships for Anne Arundel County women with funds from our four-day used book sale, held in early November. After handing out bookmarks with collection info at the Severna Park 4th of July parade, we begin collecting in mid-August. Since the COVID 19 Pandemic, the book sale has been increasingly better, due in part to all the down-sizing seniors, but even more, to the use of Square to accept credit payments. Increased income from the book sale means more money to award scholarships. In May, AAUW Anne Arundel County Branch hosted scholarship recipients at our annual spring luncheon.

We have two scholarship programs. The amount available from the book sale is equally divided between the two programs. Transfer Scholarships provide college funding for students who graduated from Anne Arundel Community College.

Hannah Alexis Kazmarek is graduating in June from the Chesapeake Science Point Charter High School in Hanover MD. Hannah participated in dual enrollment, completed 60 credit hours at AACC, and received her A.A. degree in December 2024, before the end of her senior year in high school. Hannah will attend University of Maryland Baltimore County in the fall, majoring in psychology.
Maria Gudiell is a repeat recipient, having been awarded a Transfer Scholarship previously in May 2023, when she completed an A.A. in Transfer Studies at AACC. In Fall 2024 Maria transferred from UMCP to University of Maryland Global Campus, allowing virtual attendance. She works in Testing and Tutoring at AACC and is the first member of her family to pursue a college degree.

Women To Women Scholarships provide educational grants to Anne Arundel County women choosing to continue their education. These grants are usually for smaller amounts, with more recipients. They do not require completion of an A.A. degree.

Suzanne Furr, Branch Scholarship Chair is pictured at left with two recipients. Mihyung Lee (center in photo), a South Korean immigrant and mother of two school-age children, will enter the Community College of Baltimore County in the Dental Hygiene program in the fall. She completed her prerequisite courses at AACC with help from a previous W2W scholarship. Zoie Prandy (right in photo) was a recipient last year as a Crofton High School senior. Majoring in Film and TV Production at Howard University, she has already been an assistant director for two student films. This summer she will have her own photography business, taking graduation and family pictures.

Hafsa Hamdaoui, a Crofton High School graduate, will attend University of Virginia next year to study Political Philosophy, Policy, and Law. She hopes to work as an immigration lawyer. In 2024-25, Hafsa was the student member on the Anne Arundel County Board of Education.

Siena Neill is a Southern High School graduate going to Virginia to major in Architecture. The VT program is a 5-year program which requires students during the fourth year to spend one semester with a US company, and the other semester studying architecture in Europe.

Mathea Abiara graduated from Meade High School in 2024. She was awarded a full scholarship for her first year at the University of Maryland studying business management. She deferred her 2024 W2W award to 2025, when it will be needed. Mathea was to attend the 2025 Goldman Sachs Summit and the Smith Business Leadership Fellows Program which focuses on leadership, innovation, and problem solving.

The book sale also has sponsored two students from local colleges to attend the 2025 National Conference for College Women Student Leaders at University of Maryland at the end of May. Next year the NCCWSL event will be held in Kansas City, Missouri, from March 7 – 11. Meredith Dales, Anne Arundel Community College Student Government Association President, will attend with residency.

Kelly Kane is a St. John’s College who also works in the Advancement Office as an administrative assistant and as a student liaison at donor events. Kelly will also attend with residency.

It was a good year: a total of 10 scholarships were awarded. The book sale has continued to yield dollars despite the availability of recorded or print books online.

Baltimore Branch Update

By Yvonne Higgins, Co-President

At the Annual Baltimore Branch Dinner on May 7, 24 attendees enjoyed companionship, a lovely dinner, and a very interesting speaker. Dr. Abigia Negash, MD, a physician from Ethiopia spoke about her education journey and the profound impact AAUW has had on her education.

As an AAUW Educational Foundation Fellow, she is a Master of Public Health (MPH) candidate at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. With a focus on Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Clinical Trials, she discussed how barriers to care and health disparities in Ethiopia impacted patient outcomes. Dr. Negash was joined by her friends Eyaef Zeru and Soliyana Gizuchew, also students at JHU. Also at the dinner, we elected our new officers and board members. We sincerely thank all branch members who volunteer their time to support AAUW and our branch.

Harford County Branch Remembers Bernadette Low

By Jeanne Blades, Membership VP

Bernadette Low passed away on April 18th, 2025, aged 81. Bernadette joined AAUW in 1995 and was always a staunch advocate for AAUW’s mission. Bernadette was an exceptionally active member of the Harford County Branch of AAUW. She believed strongly in becoming involved and never rested if there was one more task to do. She served as President of AAUW Harford County from 2013-2017. In addition, she served as VP for Membership and was Public Policy Reporter for the Branch and acted as the branch historian as well. She was always an active supporter for the branch’s annual Judith A. Resnik Luncheon to honor one outstanding young woman from each county high school who excelled in the areas of math and science. Many of you will remember Bernadette’s friendly presence at AAUW Maryland meetings. As AAUW MD Communications VP, she edited The Marylander from 2014 to 2018. She also served as AAUW Maryland Secretary.

Bernadette’s life outside of AAUW was just as remarkable as her involvement within our association. Born in El Paso, Texas, she earned a PhD in English from the University of New Mexico and moved to Maryland in the early 70’s to teach English at the Dundalk Campus of the Community College of Baltimore County. While teaching, she took several literary tours to England with her students and founded the honors society. She also developed an early online English course which she continued to teach online until her passing. Bernadette loved history, was a docent at the Evergreen Museum and Library, and served on the board of the Garrett-Jacobs Mansion. Bernadette was highly respected for all her endeavors and was well-loved and admired for the gentle, lovely, warm-hearted person she was who always had something positive to say and who had a way of making those around her always feel right at home and welcomed.

Kensington Rockville Branch Update

By Dian Belanger, Branch President

On Saturday morning, May 3, the Kensington-Rockville Branch held a “field trip.” We toured the Josiah Henson Museum and Park in North Bethesda, where Henson was born into the shameful horrors of slavery on this very site. What he did with the rest of his life, though, would have profound direct and indirect effects on his own times and even today.

Kensington-Rockville Branch members also enjoyed a chance to meet and greet and sample some tasty food at the annual end-of-year potluck. The speaker was Arlinda Clark, Chair of the Montgomery County Commission for Women who provided a brief update on Commission programs, the Women’s Legislative Briefing, and the status of women in Montgomery County. The program also included an update on how women’s issues fared in Annapolis during this last session.

Membership Matters Tip – Shape the Future for New Members

New members — either completely new to AAUW or rejoining after two or more years through the Shape the Future Campaign — can still get 50% off national dues using the coupon code STFFY26. For more information see: www.aauw.org/resources/member/leader-resources-tools/state-branch/shape-the-future-campaign/

AAUW Guidance on Public Demonstrations

AAUW has useful guidance to help members safely and strategically participate in public demonstrations in alignment with AAUW’s mission. Please review the guidance on AAUW’s website at https://www.aauw.org/resources/policy/advocacy-toolkit/ . Here are a few excerpts:

Two general points to remember about advocacy:

AAUW members should not endorse any activities or act in a manner that could imply AAUW approval or disapproval of a campaign candidate in a partisan election.
Individuals attending partisan events must do so in a personal capacity—not as representatives of AAUW.

Before you go to a demonstration, AAUW advises that you understand the purpose, research the organizers, and evaluate alignment: Do you feel comfortable supporting the demands or messaging of the event? Do the organizers have a track record of inclusive, nonviolent & respectful action?

Preparing in advance: dress for the weather; carry water, snacks, a small first aid kit; charge your phone and write down emergency contacts off the phone; if appropriate to represent AAUW’s mission, show your AAUW affiliation and send photos to AAUW at http://advocacy.aauw.org. Stay safe: Don’t engage with counter-protestors. Know your surroundings. Identify exit routes, stay with a buddy, and have emergency contacts accessible.

Your AAUW MD Leaders

AAUW MD Elected Officers (Executive Board)

Heather Reichardt, President (2024-2026)
Edie Allison, Vice Pres. for Programs (2025-2026)
Jeri Rhodes, Vice President for AAUW Funds (2024-2026)
Lydia Alcock and Susana Hernández Martín (2022-2026) and Roxann King (2025-2026), Co-Vice Presidents for Communications
Barb Carter and Deb Daniel, Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy (2025-2027)
Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (2023-2027)
(Vacant), Secretary (2023-2025) (volunteers welcome & thanks to those who have helped this year)
Jeanne Blades Vice President for Membership (2023-2027)

AAUW MD Committee Chairs (Current Appointed Members of the Board)

Carolyn Fisher, Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
Terry Saylor, Archivist
Eileen Menton, Member of the Bylaws Committee
Judy Carbone, ERA Taskforce Chair
Regional Event Planning Committee: Tracy Lantz, Carol Mueller, and Heather Reichardt
2026 Nominating Committee: Jacqueline Gray (Baltimore), Kate Campbell Stevenson (Kensington-Rockville), Pat Stocker (Bethesda-Chevy Chase), with Anita Rosen (past chair, ex officio) (Kensington-Rockville).

Thanks also to each Branch President, who is also a member of the Board of Directors!

SPECIAL THANKS to those newly elected/re-elected at the 2025 AAUW Maryland Convention:

Edie Allison, Program Vice President (to fill remainder of term)
Roxann King, Co-Vice President for Communications (to fill remainder of term)
Barb Carter and Deb Daniel, Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy (first 2-year term)
Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (re-elected for second term)
Jeanne Blades, Membership Vice President (re-elected for second term)

Please don’t hesitate to volunteer for the vacant position of AAUW MD Secretary. Contact Heather Reichardt or any member of the board if you have any questions or to volunteer.

AAUW Maryland encourages members to consider serving on the State Board.

Please contact any member of the 2026 Nominating Committee (listed above) or other officer if you would be interested in any of the following positions to be elected at the 2026 Convention: President, Program VP, Funds VP, Communications Co-VP, Secretary

2025 Calendar

July 26, 2025 – AAUW MD Summer Meeting
October 18, 2025 – AAUW MD Fall Meeting
September 25-27, 2026 – AAUW Atlantic Regional Meeting

Spring ’25 Marylander

Volume 93 #3, Spring 2025

President, Heather Reichert | Editor, Susan Wierman | email: aauw-md@aauw.org

Click here to download the PDF version of this issue.

President’s Message

This is a double President’s Message! First, speaking as the President of Gaithersburg Branch, the branch is very excited to welcome everyone to the 2025 AAUW Maryland Convention. On Friday evening, we are looking forward to hosting a delicious Italian meal at Il Porto (verified – I had dinner there a few nights ago and it was quite popular!) and for Saturday morning Pat Stocker and Kate Campbell Stevenson put together an incredible program.

The venue for the Convention is a beautiful church in Gaithersburg, the Pathways Baptist Church. It is well located near shops, restaurants, I-270 and MD-200. There is plenty of surface parking and an elevator to reach the lower level for the meeting in the Grand Hall.

I am especially proud that we can have a program addressing international matters that relate to women given the current pressure on so many aspects of international assistance and on women in general. We can make a difference by learning the stories of women who may be struggling and finding ways to help. Our morning speakers have extensive international experience and work to help people across Maryland either by passing important legislation or providing guidance on entrepreneurship for immigrant women.

We will also learn about the successful microbusinesses of women in Africa.
Details regarding location and registration are in this Marylander. We urge you to register as soon as possible to avoid the cost increase of late registration. Finally, we want to make this event available to many women in the state, not just AAUW members. Please encourage your friends and family to attend as well. There are special rates for guests and students.

Now, with my AAUW Maryland President hat on, in a small way, I have been trying to make a difference by attending several rallies and protests in Washington, DC. I’m fortunate to have the time to go on different days at various times. I have also attended a few hearings at the Maryland General Assembly this month and started participating in the DC Lobby Corps.

It is a privilege to be able to attend these various events. So many citizens are not able to go. We represent our family, friends, and neighbors when we participate in the legislative process! Right now, there are only a few Maryland members attending Lobby Corps. It would be great if more members could join us! Please ask about it if you are curious.

I can’t wait to see everyone on April 25 and 26!

Heather Reichardt
President
AAUW Maryland

2025 AAUW Maryland State Convention

Women Supporting Women: Global Influences and Opportunities

Hosted by the Gaithersburg Branch of AAUW – MD

Saturday, April 26, 2025 | Pathways Baptist Church 200 West Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg MD 20877 | Directions to Pathways Baptist Church

Event Registration: Online Registration | Paper Registration Form

Come together with like-minded women from around the state to discuss local and global issues and explore opportunities for women’s economic security. This event is a great opportunity to network, share experiences, and learn from each other. Let’s learn about how to help make a positive impact locally and globally!

Event Agenda:

8:30 AM – Registration & Continental Breakfast
9:00 AM – Welcome
- - - Edie Allison, AAUW Gaithersburg Branch
    - Heather Reichardt, AAUW Maryland President
9:15 AM – The Challenges and Joys of Immigrating to the US
- - - Speaker: Delegate Lily Qi
      
      Born in Shanghai, China, Lily Qi grew up during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. She immigrated to the US in 1989, became a US citizen in 1999, and now represents the 15th legislative district in the Maryland House of Delegates. She previously served as a chief administrator for economic development under Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett.
10:00 AM – Break
10:15 AM – Panel Discussion: Women Supporting Women Domestically and Globally
- - - Panelist: Bria Marie Hodge, Director of Small Business Development, Latino Economic Development Center.
      
      The LED’s mission is to serve as a catalyst that drives the economic and social advancement of low-to-moderate income Latinos and other underserved communities.
    - Panelist: Robyn Nietert, President, Women’s Microfinance Initiative
      
      WMI promotes women’s economic participation through small loans and carries the hope of prosperity to poor, rural areas of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
    - Moderator: Kate Stevenson, former Co-President, Maryland AAUW
11:15 AM – Women Supporting Women: Results from the Maryland Legislative Session
- - - Speaker: Roxann King, AAUW Maryland Vice President for Public Policy
12:00 PM – New Officer Voting & Installation
12:30 PM – Lunch
1:15 PM – Business Meeting (separate agenda to be provided)
4:00 PM – Adjourn

Meet the Nominees!

Submitted by the 2025 Nominating Committee: Anita Rosen, Chair

At the April 26 convention, members present or online are asked to approve the following nominations. As provided in the Bylaws, terms for officers are staggered so that about half of the officers are elected each year. Additional nominations may be made at the convention with the permission of the nominee. Thanks to the 2025 Nominating Committee: Anita Rosen (Kensington-Rockville) (chair), Bev Fallik (Howard County), Edie Allison (Gaithersburg), with Susan Wierman (Baltimore), pro tem (past chair). Thanks to the nominees! Short bios are included below:

Two nominees are proposed to fill one-year terms through June 30, 2026, due to vacancies remaining from last year’s election. Both are eligible to be renominated next year:

Vice President, Programs: Edie Allison (Gaithersburg)

Co-Vice President, Communications: Roxann King (Anne Arundel) (replaces SW)

Nominees for the two-year term beginning July 1, 2025, are:

Treasurer: Christine Schmitz (Baltimore)

Co-Vice Presidents, Public Policy: Barb Carter (Baltimore)

And Deb Daniel (Online)

Vice President, Membership: Jeanne Blades (Harford)

Secretary: (open for nominations)

Nominees for the 2026 Nominating Committee are: Jacqueline Gray (Baltimore), Kate Campbell Stevenson (Kensington-Rockville), and Pat Stocker (Bethesda-Chevy Chase), with Anita Rosen (Kensington-Rockville) pro tem (past chair).

Vice President, Programs: Edie Allison (Gaithersburg): Edie Allison has been active in the AAUW Gaithersburg Branch for over 25 years. She currently is branch treasurer and has served in other branch officer positions in the past. Edie has also served as AAUW-Maryland president, membership co-VP and newsletter editor in the past. Ms. Allison grew up in the San Francisco Bay area, received a bachelor’s degree in geology from West Texas State University and master’s degree in geology from the University of Utah.
After working in the petroleum industry for many years in Texas, she joined the U.S. Department of Energy, which brought her to the Washington, DC area in 1997. Since retiring from the Energy Department in 2010, she has worked as a consulting geologist focusing on technologies and policies to reduce emissions from oil and natural gas.
Co-Vice President, Communications, Roxann King (Anne Arundel): Roxann King retired in her fortieth year of teaching mathematics at Prince George’s Community College in June 2016. She taught online for several years, creating many video tutorials on YouTube for student use. She also edited and wrote mathematics textbooks for developmental mathematics students.

Now completing her fifth year as AAUW Maryland vice president/co-VP for public policy, she previously served as Maryland’s Membership VP and Program co-VP and served four years as co-President of AAUW Anne Arundel County. Roxann is very comfortable using technology or learning new technology. As Susan Wierman completes her fifth year working with AAUW Maryland Communications Co-VPs Lydia and Susana, Roxann looks forward to filling Susan’s spot.

Roxann has a daughter, two sons, and four grandchildren living in the Bowie-Annapolis area, sharing many family events. She enjoys needle crafts, tennis, music, biking, cooking, gardening, traveling; and most of all, just being outdoors. A member since 1998, she values many wonderful AAUW friendships.
Treasurer: Christine Schmitz (Baltimore): Christine Schmitz is AAUW Maryland’s current Treasurer and is nominated to continue for another term. Christine has over 35 years of diverse experience as a Certified Public Accountant and Financial Advisor to individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations. Before the 2023-2025 term, Christine previously served various other terms as AAUW MD Membership Chair, Treasurer, and Vice President for Fundraising. She has been a long-time advocate for AAUW, having served as President of the Towson Branch and as a Board Member and Treasurer of the Baltimore Branch.

She served several terms on the AAUW National Finance Committee and the Investment Committee, as well as the Governance Committee. She also has years of service on other non-profit boards, specifically Women First International Fund (previously known as Virginia Gildersleeve International Fund, on which I served for ten years). Christine was elected to AAUW’s national Board of Directors in 2024.
Co-Vice Presidents, Public Policy: Barb Carter (Baltimore) and Deb Daniel (Online): Barb Carter earned a BS in Education, minor in math, at Edinboro State Teachers College in northwestern PA, and then taught math outside Erie for over five years. She moved to Baltimore in 1971, teaching in several county schools, and earning an MS in Education from Hopkins in 1976. In 1996, she remarried and moved to Columbia, MD, retiring in 2001. Her husband’s job activities opened the door to worldwide traveling and many new experiences. Her hobbies were home rehab, travel, and reading. Now, as a widow, she still enjoys traveling as well as lunches with friends, reading, discovering activities in her retirement community, and just relaxing.

In 1995, Barb attended an AAUW Howard County meeting featuring Delegate Liz Bobo. Having experienced discrimination several times, Barb found Bobo’s review of Annapolis legislation very interesting and motivating. Discovering Lobby Corps opened the door to membership in AAUW and a chance to improve the status of women.

When she became a snowbird in 2010, Barb made a presentation about Lobby Corps at an AAUW Florida State Convention and then was invited to speak at several local branches. Her interesting seven years’ snow birding in Florida included lobbying in Tallahassee. Now in Maryland full time, Barb looks forward to spending more time on Maryland legislation, especially during these challenging times. She says, “We still have a lot of work to do advocating for women and girls.
Deborah (Deb) Daniel joined AAUW after meeting Barbara Fetterhoff becoming a member of her small branch in the most southern part of Maryland—a very welcoming and inclusive group. Now an online branch member, Deb was one of the earliest computer programmers and ended up writing critical cryptographic and communications code as a contractor to the World Bank. She also taught some obscure computer coding techniques in Sweden, England, and Spain.

She notes her skillset is still primarily technical but, at 78, she is interested in how governments work and make public policy. She set up a MyMGA account to advocate for bills she hoped would make Maryland a good place for her grandchildren who live here. She looks forward to helping build the AAUW public policy group in the next two years.
Vice President, Membership: Jeanne Blades (Harford): Jeanne Blades is currently VP for Membership for both AAUW Maryland and the Harford County Branch. She has been a member for six years and readily engaged in the VP for Membership role. She was drawn to AAUW by the friendly, dynamic Harford County women and by all the work that they do to benefit women locally and abroad. She has been actively involved in many of the groups and events that her branch fosters.

While still the VP for Membership for Harford County, in 2023 she took on the role of VP for Membership for AAUW Maryland. In another life before retirement in 2011, she earned her master’s in science to work as a reading specialist and special educator in an effort to reach students with special needs. After 40 years in education, this was still a passion, and she continued to substitute at her elementary “home” school until 2023.

Throughout her career, she has always worked with adult learners as well and still teaches as an online adjunct instructor for Goucher College believing that one of the foremost ways to improve education within our schools is by helping teachers to adopt exceptional instructional practices.

The AAUW Archives Corps Invites You!

By Dian Belanger

Do you enjoy discovering hidden treasures? Are you curious about AAUW’s amazing past? Would you like to make a significant contribution with no required advance preparation? If so, please join the fun, with other dedicated member volunteers from the District-Maryland-Virginia area who comprise the AAUW Archives Corps. We meet on the 4th Monday of alternate months at AAUW’s national office at 1310 L Street NW, Washington, DC, 10:00a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Training and ongoing guidance are provided so we can confidently process and preserve our historic past. Our important efforts make these records usable and accessible to present and future researchers.

Yes, much of what we do is scut work: remove staples, arrange papers chronologically (or in other logical sequence), cull duplicates, transfer the organized documents to acid-free folders. But what a thrill it is to uncover an awesome, unusual, funny, or long forgotten missing link. My favorite finds so far: A member/leader bequeathed a Montana gold mine to AAUW in the 1970s! (Then what? Still searching…)

Bring or buy your lunch nearby. A parking garage is adjacent; or it’s about a five-block walk from the Farragut North or Metro Center Metro. Questions? Ready to sign up? Please contact Dian Belanger dobelanger@comcast.net.

Spring 2025 Public Policy Update

By Roxann King, Co-Vice President for Public Policy

Thank you to the members who attended AAUW MD Advocacy Day on Tuesday, February 11! Despite the pending snowstorm, the Maryland General Assembly was hard at work. We visited all the offices of the Senate Judicial Proceedings and House Judiciary Committees, which were hearing four of AAUW Maryland’s six top-ranked bills on the MLAW agenda. Don’t hesitate to refer to our visits in any of your emails to members of these two committees. (Branches represented included ¹Anne Arundel, ²Gaithersburg, ³Garrett, ⁴Harford, and ⁵Kensington-Rockville. Pictured: L-R Susan Crawford¹, Sheila Allen⁴, Tracy Lantz¹, Heather Reichardt², Theresa Freligh⁴, Judy Carbone³, Caity Lovett⁴, Anita Rosen⁵, and Roxann King¹.)

More details will be presented at the Convention, but as of March 1, few bills we supported had passed at least one chamber; none were ready to send to the Governor. With few exceptions, bills must pass in one chamber by March 17, Crossover Day, to remain under consideration in 2025.

In Maryland, since 2016 when Hillary Clinton became the first woman nominated for President, increasing numbers of women have been elected to the Maryland legislature. Currently 30% of the Senate (14 out of 47) and 44% of the House of Delegates (61 out of 139) are women. This has benefitted bills favorable to women and families. This year we are off to a slow start, due to Maryland’s budget concerns, which may affect passage of bills requiring State funding.

National AAUW Lobby Corps has been visiting offices on Capitol Hill twice monthly on Thursday mornings. Action alerts are sent out to AAUW members each time Lobby Corps is active.

If you are not getting action alerts from AAUW national, you can sign up for the Two Minute Activist here: https://www.aauw.org/act/two-minute-activist/. To sign up for action alerts from Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women, send an email to mdlegagenda4women@yahoo.com asking to be added to their email list.

The form for 2025-26 Mini-grants is available at AAUW Maryland’s website under Tools for Leaders. Funded events need not be original ideas: copies of all previous funded mini-grants are on the mini-grant page. The deadline for entries is June 15^th, with winners to be announced by July 1.

Bills AAUW MD Supported at the 2025 Legislative Session:

We supported ten bills that comprise the agenda of the Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women:

HB629/SB549 Stop Silencing Survivors. This bill provides additional protection from retaliatory litigation for sexual assault survivors. Sex offenders have been suing victims for slander to discourage reporting assaults.
HB1050/SB943 Firearm Relinquishment. This bill aims to close gaps in the current protective order by ensuring firearms are relinquished or removed from abusers.
HB930/SB848 Abortion Care Access Fund Act of 2025. This bill establishes the Abortion Care Access Fund to assist Maryland abortion providers serving uninsured and underinsured people, using $25 million in unspent insurance premiums accumulated over the last 10 years.
SB 632/HB1198 The Monica Cooper Prerelease Act. This bill requires the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services to implement comprehensive rehabilitative services to women classified in the prerelease status in the Life Skills and Reentry Center for Women.
HB424/SB357 Prescription Drug Affordability Board Act. This bill expands the authority of Maryland’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board to allow them to set upper payment limits for all Marylanders. HB 424 passed the House and was referred to the Senate Finance Comm.
HB334/SB156 Universal Newborn Nurse Home Visiting Services. This bill will provide families with newborns in-home visits to promote child and maternal health, positive parenting, family self-sufficiency, and family cohesion early in a newborn’s life. SB 156 passed the Senate and was referred to the House Health and Government Operations Committee.
HB647/SB702 Corrections – Segregated Housing – Limitations. This bill limits the use of solitary confinement in Maryland prisons to no more than 15 days and only for egregious offenses, and it excludes certain people, including women who are pregnant, who are postpartum, or who have recently suffered a miscarriage, from this treatment.

HB933/SB679 Protecting Nursing Home Quality Care. This legislation will ensure 75% of nursing home revenue received from Maryland’s Medicaid program is spent on direct care and the women-led workforce that provides it.
SB314/ HB 1368 Birth Certificate Modernization Act. This bill will update the process for changing one’s personal name or sex designation on their own birth certificate or their child’s birth certificate to align with other identification processes (i.e., drivers’ licenses), promote dignity for all unique identities, and reduce opportunities for discrimination.
SB5/HB297 Young Adult Health Insurance Subsidies Pilot Program Sunset Repeal. This bill extends young adult health insurance subsidies in the MD healthcare exchange. SB 5 passed the Senate and was referred to the House Health and Gov’t Operations Committee. HB 297 passed the House of Delegates and was referred to the Senate Finance Committee.

AAUW Maryland also supported four additional bills, not on the MLAW agenda.

SB720/HB905 Safe Staffing Act of 2025. Insufficient staff and insufficient beds are the two top causes of long emergency room waiting times. Maryland still has the longest emergency room wait time of all 50 states, now for the 9^th year in a row—over 4 hours. This bill requires all hospitals to make and post a safe staffing plan.
SB 508/HB381 Healing Our Scars Act. This bill would require Maryland health insurers to provide aesthetic and restorative care to the victims of domestic violence.
SB 511/HB 840 Pregnant and Parenting Students Support Act. This bill would require most Maryland public senior colleges and universities to put in place a plan for care support of parenting and pregnant students and have it posted on their websites by July 2026.
HB 939/SB 674 Over Counter Birth Control. This bill requires the Maryland Commission for Women to establish the Maryland Collaborative to Advance Implementation of Coverage of Over-the-Counter Birth Control (already available but seldom used).

I look forward to speaking with you at the Convention in Gaithersburg April 26!

Membership Matters

By Jeanne Blades, Vice President for Membership

The Tax Man Cometh: Your deductible dues sustain AAUW.

As you prepare your taxes for Uncle Sam, remember that your $72 National dues are deductible. Heads Up! AAUW Board recently approved a modest dues adjustment—$2 per year over the next two years. New national dues: $74 starting April 1, 2025, and $76 starting April 1, 2026. Thanks for your dues, which help fund lobby corps, archive corps, website support, virtual member training and gatherings, national committees, national speakers for branch and state meetings, and more! AAUW.

A Warm Welcome to New Members

Last year was busy for our Maryland branches. We have approximately 432 members in Maryland and a good number joined or renewed in 2024! So I extend a very warm welcome to all of our new members.

I encourage each branch to review its branch roster as of February 1st, to ensure that it is up to date with memberships processed through January 31st. Then, email connect@aauw.org if there are any issues. You can watch the February 1 Count video for roster review tips. You will find a link to this in the AAUW Membership Matters from Katrina Sun Breese (February 27th email) or go to the AAUW Community Hub, scroll down to videos to find February 1 Count. This will give you instructions on how to:

Sort and review information,
Identify the state “manager members” who appear on all branch rosters,
Remove members whose membership has expired and do not plan to rejoin, and
Report duplicates to connect@aauw.org so they can be merged.

Feel free to ask me questions at the annual convention!

Kensington-Rockville Branch Activities

By Dian Belanger, Branch President

What a great group we welcomed around our community table for February’s member “salon”! Thank you, Bobbe Mintz, for organizing and conducting lively discussion–our educations, aspirations, and life choices. How being a woman “back then,” affected our outcomes drew widespread nods of understanding and empathy—and cheers, too! Let’s keep sharing our stories. They’re important—not just to us but among us.

As I write, we look forward to coming together March 15^th to learn more about the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women—firsthand, from Pat Stocker a CSW delegate. Pat will help us gain a new perspective on women around the world.

Save the Date for the 2026 Regional Meeting

By Tracy Lantz, AAUW MD Regional Event Planning Committee

Join AAUW members and friends from 13 states at the Lancaster County Convention Center & Marriott Hotel in Lancaster, PA on September 25-27th, 2026 for the AAUW Atlantic Regional Conference 2026 hosted by AAUW Pennsylvania! See https://aauw-pa.aauw.net/2026-atlantic-states-regional-conference

Lancaster, one of American’s oldest inland cities, is rich in history and culture with much to explore. We’ll be there at just the right time of year to enjoy the fall festivals! Getting there is easy: there is an Amtrak station in Lancaster or hop into a carpool with your friends and fellow AAUW members!

We anticipate a fantastic program with entertainment, opportunities to learn and connect, hear from our national leaders, and strategize on encouraging the next generation of young leaders. Please contact Tracy Lantz, Carol Mueller or Heather Reichardt with your thoughts or suggestions!

Thank you AAUW Maryland leaders!

AAUW MD Elected Officers (Executive Board)

Heather Reichardt, President (2024-2026)
Tracy Lantz, Past President (2024-2025)
Vacant, Vice President for Programs (2024-2026)
Vacant, Secretary (2023-2025)
Jeri Rhodes, Vice President for AAUW Funds (2024-2026)
Lydia Alcock and Susana Hernández Martín (2022-2026) and Susan Wierman (2022-2025), Co-Vice Presidents for Communications
Roxann King (2021-2025) and Judy Carbone (2023-2025), Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy
Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (2023-2025)
Jeanne Blades Vice President for Membership (2023-2025)

AAUW MD Committee Chairs (Appointed to Board)

Carolyn Fisher, Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (2022-2024)
Terry Saylor, Archivist (2022-2024)
Eileen Menton, Chair of the Bylaws Committee
ERA Taskforce Chair, Judy Carbone
2025 Nominations Committee: Anita Rosen (Kensington-Rockville), Bev Fallik (Howard County), and Edie Allison (Gaithersburg). Susan Wierman (Baltimore) (past chair, ex officio).
Each Branch President is also a member of the Board of Directors

2025 Calendar

March 17: AAUW MD Advocacy Day in Annapolis
April 6: Mail your check to register for the State Convention by today to get the best rate.
April 7: Last day of 2025 Legislative Session
April 25: Pre-convention dinner at Il Porto in Gaithersburg
April 26: State Convention & Annual Meeting (Election of Officers) in Gaithersburg
July 26: AAUW MD Summer Meeting

Winter ’24 Marylander

Volume 93 #2, Winter 2024

President, Heather Reichert | Editor, Susan Wierman | email: aauw-md@aauw.org

Click here to download the PDF version of this issue.

President’s Welcome Message
There’s still time to take action on the ERA!
MLAW Fall Conference: Proposed Bills Under Consideration
Maryland Public Policy Updates
Update from AAUW National Board
AAUW Atlantic Regional Conference a Huge Success!
Membership: Saving and Updating!
ERA Documentary shared with Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and DC!
Judy Carbone on Maryland Commission for Women
Kate Stevenson on MLAW Board
Branch Activities from Baltimore, Garrett County, Harford County, Howard County, and Kensington-Rockville
Leadership Opportunities
Your AAUW Maryland leaders
Calendar

President’s Message

Happy holidays! And Happy new year! Where did the beautiful warm weather go?! I hope everyone took advantage of it while it lasted. I’m looking forward to our Winter Board Zoom call and the Spring Convention. I have changed the date for the Winter Board Zoom to Sunday, January 26, from 1-3:30 pm due to an important conflict. The Women’s/People’s March is scheduled for January 18, 2025, in Washington, DC. I am planning to participate in that march. Let me know if you are going to the March so we can meet up. Gaithersburg has agreed to host the 2025 Convention and is seeking a venue. Please plan to attend on Saturday, April 26.

So many exciting things have been happening since our last publication. Other articles will tell you about the Atlantic Regional Conference and our efforts to get the Equal Rights Amendment certified to the US Constitution. I attended the regional conference, which was fantastic, and I have been joining Tracy Lantz, Kate Stevenson and others in DC to advocate for the ERA. There’s still a chance for this to happen. On November 2, I joined the pre-election Women’s March in Washington. It was a fun, hopeful and positive experience.

In October, Pat Stocker and I were invited to a lovely Autumn Social organized by AAUW National at the Viceroy Hotel in Washington, DC. AAUW’s goal was to bring together participants from all parts of the AAUW community – branch presidents, Fellowship and Grants awardees and alumnae, donors and more. It was wonderful to meet up with one of the speakers from the Atlantic Regional Conference: Ingrid Marquina of George Mason University, who received a Career Development Grant. I hope AAUW will continue to hold these delightful events in the future.

The MLAW Conference was excellent this year. Check out Pat Stocker’s article. Speeches by Senator Chris Van Hollen and Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller gave us hope that we can still work to improve the lives of women and families in Maryland.

Lobby Corps is still going strong, although they did not go to Capitol Hill in October, November or December due to the election. I attended the in-person training at AAUW HQ on December 5. It was great to meet other Lobby Corps members and the small, three-person AAUW HQ policy team: they have their hands full. Only four Lobby Corps members from Maryland attended. We should have more Maryland members in Lobby Corps. They need as many citizen lobbyists as they can get to be able to promote good upcoming legislation and counter the bad stuff. If anyone has questions, please contact me or Roxann.

Stay warm and see you soon!

Heather Reichardt
President
AAUW Maryland

There’s still time to take action on the ERA!

By Tracy Lantz, AAUW MD Past President

Left to right: Heather Reichardt, Kate Campbell Stevenson, and Tracy Lantz (Present and Former AAUW MD Presidents) working alongside two VoteEquality volunteers at the steps of the U.S. Archives in Washington, DC.

Including the fully ratified ERA in the constitution would be a HUGE step in protecting everyone in this country. Time is of the essence; we’ve only got a few weeks to make this happen during the current administration.

VoteEquality suggests the following simple actions you as well as your friends and neighbors can take to move the ERA towards publication: contact the White House by phone at (202)-456-1111, text at (302) 404-0880 or send postcards or letters to President Biden or Vice President Harris at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington DC 20500, or write a letter to your local paper and activate others to do the same!

Urge President Biden and Vice President Harris to do anything they can to get the ERA into the Constitution! For additional details visit https://voteequality.us/

MLAW Fall Conference: Proposed Bills under Consideration

By Pat Stocker

MLAW held its 30th annual Fall Agenda Conference on November 23 in Columbia. Many Maryland AAUW members were among the 270 women who attended the conference. Together, we explored bills to be introduced in the upcoming Maryland General Assembly.

Catherine Hill (in the picture), an active member of Maryland AAUW, was recently named as the first MLAW Executive Director and chaired the conference. She shared an inspirational video which noted that 119 MLAW endorsed bills have passed the General Assembly over the past 30 years.

US Senator Chris Van Hollen (in the picture) opened the conference, citing the current unsettling political realities but challenging us to remain hopeful but vigilant, informed and engaged. He remains positive, citing checks and balances and the confirmation of more than 200 new federal judges. He congratulated Marylanders for passing Ballot Question 1, constitutionally protecting reproductive rights, with 76% of the votes for the amendment.

Other luminaries included Ariana Kelly, Legislative Leadership Award-winning former delegate and state senator, now Executive Director of the Maryland Commission for Women. “Rage and spite” drove her initial run for office, she said, to appreciative laughter.

Lt. Governor Aruna Miller, the first woman and Indian American in that office, boasted that Governor Wes Moore’s cabinet is the most diverse ever, with 50% women and 50% people of color. State Senator Sara Love also attended, as did other state officials.

Fourteen legislative proposals were presented at the MLAW Fall Conference. They will be voted on by MLAW members within the next few weeks and 6 to 8 will be selected as priorities for the upcoming session.

Proposed bills include such issues as solitary confinement for women in Maryland prisons; women’s prelease programs; updating MD birth certificates to include name or gender changes and markers; protection from retaliatory litigation for sexual assault survivors; protecting quality nursing home care so that 75% of skilled nursing revenue goes toward direct care; preventing local HOA’s and local jurisdictions from prohibiting operation of day care service.

Other areas include parity for loan assistance repayment for dental hygienists who work part-time; abortion care access funds; drug expenses; nurse home visits for newborns; firearm relinquishment, and several others of importance.

Once the legislative priorities are set, AAUW Maryland will work actively for their passage. Spearheading the effort is Roxann King, Maryland’s Vice President for Policy.

Maryland Public Policy Updates

By Roxann King, Public Policy Co-Vice President, AAUW Maryland

2025 Legislative Agenda. Sign up for MLAW’s email list so that you can receive action alerts when support for bills is needed: send a request to mdlegagenda4women@yahoo.com. As this goes to press, I’ve been working with branch representatives to determine which bills AAUW MD will advocate for during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly. The legislative session begins on January 8 and ends on April 7. Once AAUW MD’s legislative agenda is decided, your branch public policy leaders will share it with your membership. Maryland is facing a severe fiscal crisis: this is bound to affect which bills are passed and funded in 2025.

Women’s Legislative Briefing – January 25 MLAW bills and other issues facing women will be reviewed at the Montgomery County Women’s Commission’s 45th annual Women’s Legislative Briefing (WLB). Attend Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Universities at Shady Grove, from 11:30 am – 5:30 pm. The theme is: EMPOW(HER): Breaking Barriers to Success. Early bird tickets are $45 through January 22 at 5:00pm. An Emerging Leaders conference for middle and high school students is held concurrently with the Briefing. The WLB and the fall MLAW conference are the two big legislative meetings for Maryland women each year. See https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cfw/wlb.html.

Advocacy Day. AAUW Maryland Advocacy Day in Annapolis will be held the morning of Tuesday, February 11. We will start the day around 10 a.m. and be done before noon. If you can attend, please contact Roxann King (roxann.king1@gmail.com or 240-472-1408). If you wish to use our advocacy training video, get in touch with Roxann.

Public Policy Mini-Grants. $200 in funds remain in the Mini-Grant account. We have extended the deadline to January 15 with the hope that an additional award for 2024-25 could be made. This deadline applies to grants that must be completed by June 30, 2025. Details and information on previous awardees are available on the AAUW Maryland website under Tools for Leaders.

Lobby Corps. Please consider joining AAUW Lobby Corps. If you are unsure about joining, just come one time and try it out. Our current five Maryland members need more support: Virginia has four times as many volunteers. Pre-pandemic, members lobbied weekly on Thursdays, now we lobby only once a month on the morning of the third Thursday, and then, only when Congress is in session. We lobby only for one bill, work with an assigned partner, and visit only five or six legislative offices. Beforehand we have written and live instruction on the bill. We hope you will join us.

Update from AAUW National Board

By Christine Schmitz, AAUW National Board Member and AAUW MD Treasurer

One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is “What does my money support when I donate to the Greatest Needs Fund?” Let me share wth you the following list of everything that fund supports:

Member Services
Public Policy
Communications
Research Reports
Advocacy and Legislation
Program Development
Operations
Office occupancy costs

As you can see this is a long list. Please consider making a gift to the Greatest Needs Fund this year. You can donate by going to www.aauw.org and clicking the DONATE button. Thank you!

AAUW Atlantic Regional Conference a Huge Success!

By Tracy Lantz, AAUW MD Immediate Past President

The 2024 Atlantic Regional Conference in Glen Allen, Virginia was a huge success! We received so many positive comments from the attendees that we are now on our way to planning another regional conference in 2026!

Maryland AAUW Attendees (left to right): Gloria Blackwell, Susan Wierman, Roxann King, Tracy Lantz, Dorothy Fraquelli, Edie Allison Carolyn Fisher, Barb Carter, Carol Mueller, Beth Hayden, Susan Crawford, Heather Reichardt, Cheryl Menke, Suzanne Soules, Bea Dane, Janice Zimmerman, and Dian Belanger

A huge THANK YOU to Carol Mueller (photo at right) and Dian Belanger who also participated with me (Tracy) in the planning of this event. Thank you as well to all those AAUW Maryland members who graciously volunteered their time to speak at the event as well as those who attended this first of its kind regional conference! You helped to create an event that far exceeded my expectations when I began imagining such an event all those years ago.

Even the folks from our AAUW National Headquarters gave glowing reviews of the event! AAUW CEO Gloria Blackwell (above with other Marylanders and below) was a gracious and active participant. We were fortunate that the conference did well from a financial standpoint, putting us in a good position to reserve a space for 2026 that will accommodate more attendees, better suit our needs for meeting space with up-to-date equipment for the presenters and hopefully offer a slightly lower registration cost.

AAUW Pennsylvania will be our host state and is looking for a conference space in or near the Philadelphia area, preferable with easy access to public transportation. We hope to have more participation from states to the north as well as south.

A decision about the date of the next regional meeting has not been made yet. I intend to continue to participate in planning the next conference, and Heather and I are looking for one or two more volunteers who would also like to be involved! There will be opportunities to serve on the Program, Marketing & Communications, Technology, Registration, and On-Site Venue Contact Committees.

Please contact Heather Reichardt or me at tklantz@verizon.net if you are interested in helping to plan the next regional conference. It’s a great way to meet AAUW leaders from other states as well as help shape the future of AAUW in the Atlantic Region!

Membership: Saving and Updating!

By Jeanne Blades, AAUW MD VP Membership

Taxes: As this year comes to a close, we begin think ahead about tax season. Please don’t forget that all $72 of your National dues are tax deductible this year.

Member Benefit with AAUW UPS® Savings Program: Members can save up 65% on shipments. If you already have a UPS account, simply re-enroll and apply AAUW’s member-only savings to your existing account by calling 1-800-636-2377 and saying you’re with AAUW. Or sign up for a new account today at https://www.ups.com/mrd/promodiscount?loc=en_US&promoCd=DNG98U7XV

Updating: Update your information with AAUW by logging into your personal AAUW snapshot account to update your education, preferences, and demographic profile with AAUW. If you would like a visual, just go to AAUW’s Community Hub and click on the video, “How to Login or Create an Account” which has accompanying screenshots for the above as well as information for changing your email address if needed.

Free Memberships: AAUW’s Shape the Future Campaign offers half-price national membership! Go to AAUW.org, click on Membership in top bar, click on Governance and Tools, click on State and Branch Tools, scroll down to Resources at the Ready and click on “Learn More About AAUW’s Shape the Future Campaign.” The coupon code is STFFY25. With Shape the Future, for every 2 new members, the branch earns one free membership up to a total of 3 free memberships per fiscal year. Click on Status Report to check how many free memberships you have earned from July 2024 to June 2025.

ERA Documentary shared with Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and DC!

By Tracy Lantz, AAUW MD Immediate Past President

On December 1st, 40 AAUW members from the Atlantic Region gathered virtually to view the documentary “Ratified” which shares the story of where we’ve been on the journey to ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment and what we need to do moving forward. The film focused on the grassroots effort to ratify the amendment in the 38th state: Virginia! After the film was an engaging panel discussion with Tonja Roberts-Brooks, Co-Founder and Outreach Director of Vote Equality, Kati Hornung, Co-Founder and Executive Director and Judy Carbone, President AAUW Garrett Branch, member of the Maryland Commission for Women. AAUW Maryland was thrilled to be joined by AAUW members from Pennsylvania, North Carolina and DC.

If you missed the viewing, take a moment to watch a short video about Virginia’s struggle to ratify the ERA posted near the bottom of this website: ratifythefilm.com/ Contact tklantz@verizon.net if you are interested in viewing the entire 90 minute documentary.

Judy Carbone on Maryland Commission for Women

From Garrett Branch Newsletter

Governor Wes Moore recently appointed Judy A. Carbone, President of AAUW-Garrett Branch, to the Maryland Commission for Women.

The Maryland Commission for Women (MCW) works with Maryland State Government to advance solutions and to expand social, political, and economic opportunities for all women. It was created in 1965 and made permanent in 1971 by the Maryland General Assembly with the following mandates:

Study the status of women in our state,
Direct attention to critical problems confronting women,
Recommend methods of overcoming discrimination,
Recognize women’s accomplishments and contributions, and
Provide informed advice to the executive and legislative branches of government on the issues concerning the women of our state.

Twenty-five Commissioners serve on the MCW, the last one from Mountain Maryland having been appointed in 2020 for only one year. Since 2018, Judy had called for more representation from Mountain Maryland on the Commission and is thrilled to be able to advocate for and bring attention to the needs of rural women, especially those from the western-most part of the state.

She will serve on the MCW Awards & Outreach Sub-Committee, which oversees the annual Maryland Women’s Hall of Fame selection and induction process and the Maryland Young Women’s Leaders Award selection process. Additionally, Judy will be the MCW liaison with the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center. Congratulations, Judy!

Kate Stevenson on MLAW Board

By Pat Stocker

Heather Reichardt, AAUW Maryland President, recently appointed Kate Campbell Stevenson as our representative to the board of MLAW. Kate brings a wealth of experience from her many years of involvement in MLAW as well as her leadership roles in AAUW. Her term will begin in January 2025. Congratulations, Kate!

BRANCH ACTIVITIES

Baltimore Branch

By Dorothy Fraquelli & Yvonne Higgins, Branch Co-Presidents

This fall Branch Program Vice Presidents Denise Gray and Janice Zimmerman organized several voter registration events. In November both Janice and Denise served as election judges.

In the photo, Denise and her sister are
in action at Coppin State University.

Several branch members attended the AAUW Atlantic Regional Conference in Glen Allen, Virginia September 27-29, including Branch Co-President Dorothy Fraquelli, along with Janice Zimmerman and Susan Wierman.

On October 20, Branch members enjoyed a special viewing of the movie She Rises Up along with a delicious brunch served at Branch Co-President Yvonne Higgins’s lovely waterside home. The movie follows radically different women from Sri Lanka, Peru, and Senegal who are fighting to build businesses that create job opportunities for women, while also contributing to the reduction of poverty in their communities.

A major focus for the Branch this year is public education. The “Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” passed by the General Assembly in 2021 is intended to increase state funding for education over the next 10 years. On November 16 Branch members and guests gathered for an informative discussion with Dr. John W. Staley, Blueprint Coordinator for Baltimore County Public Schools. He explained the five “pillars” of the Blueprint and graciously extended his time with us to answer many questions from Branch members. State budget deficits will likely affect the funds allocated for the Blueprint. Stay tuned!

Garrett County Branch

By Judy A. Carbone, Branch President

On the eve of the 2024 Presidential election, with the first woman Vice President of the United States running to become the first woman President, AAUW-Garrett Branch held a reading of the play “Good Lazy Woman: 2024 Election Edition” written by Catherine Stewart. The event was attended by approximately 50 people, who were welcomed by Mountain Lake Park Mayor Don Sincell.

The play was brought to the attention of AAUW-Garrett Branch by branch member Mary Helen Spear, who reached out to branch member Jennifer Virts for her expertise in play production and direction.

Cast members of “Good Lazy Woman” from left to right: Jennifer Virts, Gloria Salazar, Beverly Williams, Linda Herdering, Kendall Ludwig, Betty Pritt, and Kim Alexander

The play is a comedy featuring the political rhetoric of Victoria Claflin Woodhull (candidate in 1870), Margaret Chase Smith (candidate in 1964), and Shirley Chisholm (candidate in 1972), which weaves through one woman’s relationship to ambition.

Using archival and contemporary verbatim text, “Good Lazy Woman” provokes conversation on why America wasn’t then yet ready for a female leader. It leads to discussion about whether we might be ready now.

In 2024, the 24th woman to run for President and only the 2nd to receive a major party’s nomination was subjected to gender-based negative campaigning that questioned her ethnicity, intelligence, sexuality, motherhood, and experience – attacks not faced by male candidates. Facts about the ugly side of our political environment must be recognized and discussed by all, regardless of political affiliation. The need for AAUW’s work at the national, state, and local level is more critical than ever.

Our branch remains strong, active, and recognized for its vital work. Our Garrett County branch has accomplished incredible things, but we also face a leadership transition crisis. While I have been honored to serve as president for 8 years, our bylaws call for officers to serve no more than two terms. For the health and growth of our organization, we need to cultivate new leadership and fresh ideas.

Our membership is solid, with several new members eager to advance gender equity in our community. We have excellent new leaders stepping up in key roles, including Secretary, Treasurer, and Membership VP and as End-of-the-Line Bookstore Manager. Our scholarship program is thriving, and we continue to be a powerful voice for women’s issues in Garrett County.

I urge all of you, our members and friends, to get involved. Those of you already contributing your time and talents, thank you. And to those who are new or haven’t yet found a role, I encourage you to review our activities and projects – there is much work to be done, and all help is greatly appreciated. Together, we will continue the important work of our predecessors and advance the vision of gender equity. Please contact me with your thoughts, questions, and suggestions. I can be reached at 301-616-5036 or judy@corgi-cottage.com. Thank you.

Harford County Branch

By Sheila Allen, Branch President

Left to Right- Erin Flynn and Allison Heiderman of SARC accept a check for $740 from AAUW representatives Rose Ann Ward, Jeanne Blades, and Karen Thames. Missing committee members are Jodie Spears and Kathleen Hampton.

This fall marked a “first” for our Harford County Branch. We held a Road Rally and Scavenger Hunt to raise funds for SARC Sexual Assault/Spouse Abuse Resource Center in Bel Air. Road Rally participants followed clues to ten destinations in Bel Air and gathered scavenger hunt items along the way. This was a great opportunity for everyone to learn more about our community and its historical sites. At the conclusion, a Gift Basket Raffle was held. Many very generous members and local merchants contributed gift cards and merchandise which were bundled into 22 gift baskets. The result for our efforts was a check for $740 that was delivered to SARC in November. It was a wonderful day and a good time was had by all!

The Harford Branch is planning a webinar about the Furaha Girls School in the heart of Kenya. Furaha Girls School is not just a place of learning but a beacon of hope and opportunity for young girls. “Furaha,” meaning “joy” in Swahili, aptly captures the spirit of this remarkable institution. This boarding school brings the girls into an environment that nurtures not only their intellect but also their spirits. In a region where education is often a luxury, Furaha Girls School is transforming lives, one student at a time, by providing quality education and fostering an environment where girls can dream big and achieve their full potential. Members of the Harford County Branch sponsor one young woman, Duncan Moreen Kendi, at this school. This sponsorship is in honor of a previous member of AAUW, Toni Bram. Toni was an active member of the community and our AAUW branch until her death in 2013, and to honor her memory, we named a scholarship fund for her. For the past three years, we have collected monies to cover the cost of Duncan’s room and board each year of her high school at Furaha. Please join our Harford Branch on Wednesday, February 19 at 7 PM for a video of the school and their students. The meeting will be on Zoom. Please email Sheila Allen to let her know you plan to attend for details and in case the meeting time/date changes. sheilahcc@gmail.com

Howard County Branch

From the Branch Newsletter

Girl Power is a STEM conference held each year at the Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory Campus in Howard County. It will be held the afternoon of either March 1 or March 8 in 2025. AAUW Howard County Branch will present a workshop based on a case from the Math Inspectors series of books at Girl Power 2024. During the 45-minute workshop, the students will learn how to use numbers to help them solve a mystery and break into teams to solve who stole the Claymore Diamond. The activity will be targeted at students in the fourth through eighth grades. There will be two sessions with 25 students in each.

If you are a math lover, a math hater, or you like to work with children, please join us in planning and presenting this activity. We will meet on Tuesday, December 3, at 2:00 Please RSVP to Cindy Graham at 214-912-5656 or email Cindy at cugraham@gmail.com.

The Howard County Branch plans a holiday luncheon in December and a fundraiser at Toby’s Dinner Theater in January to raise money for branch scholarships at Howard Community College. The Branch has several active interest groups, including AAUW Readers, the Lunch Bunch, Adventures in Dining, Great Decisions, and volunteering at the Food Bank.

Kensington-Rockville Branch News

By Dian Belanger, Branch President

Kensington-Rockville Branch began our 2024-25 year with an informative and interest-inspiring presentation by Catherine Hill, the new and first paid executive director of the Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women (MLAW). Catherine was also AAUW’s Vice President for Research for several years and is now a welcome branch member.

At our October meeting, our own branch members informed and entertained us while challenging our knowledge and assumptions. Bobbe Mintz, an attorney and former administrative law judge, presented a series of Legal Puzzlers, using real and hypothetical cases to test our legal understanding, logical thinking, and the often-uncomfortable relationship between legality and morality. Lively interaction and sober learning for these fraught times ensued.

New member and writer-teacher-poet Marcia Elbrand shared poems from her amusingly titled Flying Earrings, touching us with her deep insight and introspection on subjects from kitchen countertops’ ability to hide dirt to death and God.

At MLAW’s formal Fall Agenda Conference & 30th Anniversary Celebration in November, we enjoyed reunions with AAUW members from across the state amid an over-flow crowd as we heard passionate advocates urge acceptance of their respective causes for MLAW’s priorities in the upcoming legislative session.

At our December holiday gathering we will socialize but also celebrate and support Montgomery College students holding branch scholarships. Their stories and gratitude always impress and inspire greater giving. We hope to include an AAUW fellow as well.

Leadership Opportunities

Anita Rosen, Bev Fallik, Edie Allison, and Susan Wierman

The AAUW Maryland Nominating Committee is seeking nominees to be AAUW MD Programs Vice President and Secretary. These current vacancies are to be filled by the Board at a regular Board meeting or by electronic vote. Please email aauw-md@aauw.net to volunteer or request more information. The Nominating Committee is also seeking nominees for the next two-year term to be elected at the Annual Membership Meeting/Convention. Nominations are welcome for Secretary, Program Vice President, Communications Vice President, Public Policy Vice President, and Membership Vice President. Contact Anita Rosen at anita.rosen123@gmail.com.

Your AAUW Maryland leaders

AAUW MD Elected Officers (Executive Board)

Heather Reichardt, President (2024-2026)
Tracy Lantz, Past President (2024-2025)
____________(TBD), Vice President for Programs (2024-2026)
____________(TBD), Secretary (2023-2025)
Jeri Rhodes, Vice President for AAUW Funds (2022-2024 & 2024-2026)
Lydia Alcock and Susana Hernández Martín (2022-2024, 2024-2026) and Susan Wierman (2020-2022, 2022-2024, 2025), Co-Vice Presidents for Communications
Roxann King (2021-2023, 2023-2025) and Judy Carbone (2023-2025), Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy
Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (2023-2025)
Jeanne Blades Vice President for Membership (2023-2025)

AAUW MD Committee Chairs (Appointed to Board)

Carolyn Fisher, Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (2022-2024)
Terry Saylor, Archivist (2022-2024)
____________(TBD), Chair of the Bylaws Committee
ERA Taskforce Chair, Judy Carbone
2024 Atlantic Regional Conference Planning Committee: Dian Belanger, Carol Mueller, and Tracy Lantz
2025 Nominations Committee: Anita Rosen (Kensington-Rockville), Bev Fallik (Howard County), and Edie Allison (Gaithersburg). Susan Wierman (Baltimore) (past chair, ex officio).
Each Branch President is also a member of the Board of Directors

2025 Calendar

Jan. 8 – Apr. 7: 2025 MD Legislative Session
Jan. 18: Women’s March/People’s March in DC
Jan. 20: Inauguration Day & MLK Day
Jan. 25: Women’s Legislative Briefing
Jan. 26: AAUW MD Board Mtg. via Zoom
Feb. 11: AAUW MD Advocacy Day in Annapolis
April 26: Tentative date for 2025 AAUW MD Annual Meeting & Convention

Summer ’24 Marylander

Volume 92 #5, Summer 2024
President, Tracy Lantz | Editor, Susan Wierman | email: aauw-md@aauw.org

Click here to download the PDF version of this issue.

2024 AAUW Maryland Summer Conference
President’s Message
Thank you and congratulations to AAUW Maryland Leaders
AAUW Maryland continued support of NCCWSL
Women of Distinction donor thank you
Equal Rights Amendment Task Force Update
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Update
Gaithersburg Branch Activities
Garrett County Branch Activities
Howard County Branch Activities
2024 Calendar

2024 AAUW MARYLAND SUMMER CONFERENCE

How the Maryland Attorney General’s Office Is Improving Women’s’ Lives; and
How to Get the Most out of the AAUW.ORG Website!

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Grace United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall
407 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210

Please note that the location has changed from the previous announcement. The conference will be at Grace United Methodist Church. Register online at Eventbrite for the conference here or mail the registration form included on the next page by July 5. Directions follow.

Speakers:

Carisa Hatfield, Assistant Attorney General, Office of Equity, Policy, and Engagement, Office of the Maryland Attorney General (OAG); Co-chair of the OAG’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee

Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has developed several initiatives, including efforts to defend federal rules to implement the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. Learn more about work to combat systemic inequities and protect the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of all Marylanders.

Jeanne Blades, AAUW MD Membership Vice President & Harford County Branch member; Adjunct instructor at Goucher College

An educator with an MS in education and over 40 years of experience as a reading specialist and special educator, Jeanne will help us stay active, connected, and informed as we learn about resources available to members on the AAUW website.

Welcome to Baltimore for the Summer Conference!

From Dorothy Fraquelli and Yvonne Higgins, Incoming Baltimore Branch Co-Presidents

On behalf of the Baltimore Branch, we welcome you to the AAUW Maryland 2024 Summer Conference on Saturday, July 20^th!

Light refreshments will be available at 9 a.m., the program will begin at 9:30, and lunch will be included. The AAUW Board will meet following lunch, concluding by 3:30.

Thanks to Heather Reichardt and Carolyn Fisher for arranging an informative and interesting program, And thanks to Janice Zimmerman, outgoing Branch Co-President, and branch members Eileen Menton, Christine Schmitz, Jean Smith, Susan Wierman, Eunice Young for helping organize this conference.

As we say in Baltimore, we look forward to seeing you, hon!

AAUW MD Summer 2024 Conference Registration

Registration cost includes a light breakfast and lunch on July 20, the day’s program, and the business meeting. You are encouraged to bring guests/prospective members and “new” officers.

Refreshments will be available at 9 AM. The program starts at 9:30 AM and runs until 1:30 PM. The Board meeting follows lunch and concludes at 3:30 PM.

Register online at Eventbrite for the conference!

Directions to the Summer Conference

Saturday, July 20, 2024
Grace United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall
5407 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210

Grace United Methodist Church (GUMC) is located at the southeast corner of North Charles Street and Northern Parkway. Parking is available in the lot on the south side of the church. The lot is accessible from both Charles Street and Northen Parkway.

For those wishing for simple directions, take 695 to 83 south toward Baltimore. Use the Northern Parkway exit to go east, up the hill past Roland Avenue to the light at Charles Street, where you will see your destination: the white church on the southeast corner. Otherwise, you are welcome to follow your GPS.

To enter the parking lot from Northern Parkway, proceed across Charles Street just past the church and take the first right turn. It is a driveway, not a street. Proceed to the parking lot behind the church.

Those driving north on Charles Street can turn right just before reaching the church and proceed to the parking lot behind the church.

Enter through the glass door that faces the parking lot under a white portico. There should be AAUW signs on or near the entrance. You’ll find the conference in Fellowship Hall on the second floor of the church hall, not in the church itself. You may use the elevator or the stairs.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Tracy Lantz, President, AAUW Maryland

Thank You and One More Ask…

It’s time for my final message to you as your State President. Thank you for the opportunity to represent you! I so enjoyed this honor while participating in many special events; the ERA March on Washington, ERA Rally in Annapolis, the Artist4ERA events throughout the state, the ERA Centennial Celebration in Seneca Falls, as well introducing our honoree at the 2024 NCCWSL conference, just to name a few!

I’m so very excited to welcome your new president, Heather Reichardt. We’ve already been working together to establish a smooth transition.

Congratulations also to others who were elected to new terms at the 2024 AAUW Maryland Convention. The full results of the elections of state officers are posted in this issue of the Marylander. We are still looking to replace Heather and Jackie Gray with a new Programs Vice President. Please volunteer or encourage someone to step up to this important office.

The 2024 AAUW Maryland Convention, beautifully hosted by the Kensington-Rockville Branch, also included a great presentation on ranked choice voting, remarks by AAUW CEO Gloria Blackwell, and updates on the ERA and state legislation. Congratulations to all who made this event so successful.

And a huge thank you to you for participating in AAUW Maryland! Whether you attended a state meeting via zoom, served on the state board, enjoyed the speakers at one of our in-person state meetings hosted by local branches, joined us for a march, rally, lobby day, local book sale, branch meeting or luncheon, we’re glad you’re here and may you continue to join us this summer and fall!

Thanks to the Baltimore Branch for hosting the July 20 summer conference, and to Heather Reichardt, outgoing Co-VP for Programs, and Carolyn Fisher, Chair of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, for finding outstanding speakers. Please remember to mail your registration by July 5 to get the best rate. I look forward to seeing you soon at Grace United Methodist in Baltimore!

We’ll be replacing our usual statewide fall meeting with the Atlantic Regional Conference to be held in Glen Allen, Virginia, just north of Richmond! Maryland has been on the planning team with 11 other regional states for more than a year. The event begins on Friday afternoon and continues until mid-day Sunday (Sept. 27^th-29^th).

We’ll have speakers, some AAUW leaders and others from outside organizations, on topics including Generative AI, Ending Period Poverty, Ranked Choice Voting, Reproductive Rights, The Attack on our Public Schools, Strengthening our Advocacy, Voting Rights and Challenges, the Status of the Equal Rights Amendment and AAUW’s role in the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, also referred to as the international bill of rights for women. There will be opportunities to learn from members in neighboring states and to share your ideas to help our organization thrive!

It will be an exciting conference and I am looking forward to seeing each of you there! Find a couple of friends and carpool to Richmond! Check out the information on our website and register today! https://www.aauwatlanticregionalconference.com/

Tracy Lantz
President
AAUW Maryland

Thank you & congratulations to AAUW Maryland leaders!

New & Returning AAUW MD Officers (Executive Board)

Heather Reichardt, President (2024-2026)
Tracy Lantz, Past President (2024-2025)
____________(TBD), Vice President for Programs (2024-2026)

The Nominating Committee is seeking a nominee to be Programs Vice President. This vacancy is to be filled by the Board at a regular Board meeting or by electronic vote.

Jeri Rhodes, Vice President for AAUW Funds (2022-2024)
Lydia Alcock and Susana Hernández Martín (2024-2026) and Susan Wierman (2022-2025), Co-Vice Presidents for Communications
Roxann King and Judy Carbone, Co-Vice Presidents for Public Policy (‘21-’25 & ’23- ‘25)Christine Schmitz, Treasurer (2023-2025)
Diane Roca, Secretary (2023-2025)
Jeanne Blades Vice President for Membership (2023-2025)

AAUW MD Committee Chairs (Appointed Members of the Board)

Carolyn Fisher, Chair of Diversity, and Inclusion Committee (2022-2024)
Terry Saylor, Archivist (2022-2024)
Diane Roca, Chair of the Bylaws Committee
ERA Taskforce Chair, Judy Carbone
Regional Event Planning Committee: Dian Belanger, Carol Mueller, and Tracy Lantz
2025 Nominations Committee: Anita Rosen (Kensington-Rockville), Bev Fallik (Howard County), and Edie Allison (Gaithersburg). Susan Wierman (Baltimore) (past chair) will serve ex officio.
*Each Branch President is also a member of the Board of Directors

AAUW Database Access Rights — Update Officers by June 30!

If your branch/state title is president/administrator, membership vice president or finance officer, you have the access rights to update officers for FY25 by June 30. Even if an officer is returning, make sure to update your records if their next term starts July 1, 2024. Login to the AAUW Community Hub, then go to MY AFFILIATIONS and click the button next to your branch name. Choose BRANCH COMMITTEE to update officers by following the step-by-step screen instructions.

AAUW Maryland continued support of NCCWSL

On May 30-June 1 this year, over 600 college students participated in AAUW’s National Conference for College Women Student Leaders at the University of Maryland College Park. AAUW CEO Gloria Blackwell greeted each of the AAUW MD representatives at the May 31 Women of Distinction event, and we were given special front row seats. Gloria’s opening remarks stressed the importance of AAUW Maryland’s long-term support for the Conference and AAUW’s gratitude for that support. Tracy Lantz introduced Dian Belanger, AAUW Maryland’s Woman of Distinction.

One of several students supported by AAUW MD branches was Alayna Savage, a rising sophomore at Garrett College who is also the President of the AAUW Garrett College Student Chapter. Alayna received a unique scholarship from AAUW-Garrett Branch, covering registration, room and board, and transportation. The conference’s overall theme was “Dare To Be…” Alayna attended keynote presentations and break-out sessions on topics that challenged attendees to embrace their power and dare to be the fearless, bold leaders needed to shape a more equitable future for all.

Said Alayna about the conference program, “I attended presentations on a wide range of subjects such as transforming my life through compassion, learning about the latest changes to Title IX, and information on creating institutional change when it comes to menstruation. There were so many more panels to pick from, and I wish I had been able to attend them all. The speakers were all so informative and open to questions about their topics and I know I learned so much from them all.”

Garrett Branch president and AAUW MD Co-VP for Public Policy, Judy Carbone and Ting Ting Cheng of the Columbia Law School presented a session at NCCWSL on the Equal Rights Amendment. (See details in Judy’s ERA Taskforce Update.)

Thank you, THANK YOU, AAUW Maryland

. . . for your generous sponsorship once again of the Women of Distinction awards ceremony of the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders. That you named me NCCWSL’s Maryland Woman of Distinction was an over-the-top honor, a heady climax to a half-century-plus of participation in our historic organization of and for women. Thank you, Tracy Lantz, for your warm and thoughtful introduction.

I didn’t have much opportunity to interact with AAUW’s national Women of Distinction, or to chat with you whose presence meant so much to me, because so many students, inspired and grateful, kept me surrounded.

–Dian Belanger

Heartfelt thanks to all the donors listed below for contributing to the Maryland Women of Distinction Fund between October 18, 2023, and April 4, 2024

[insert chart list]

Equal Rights Amendment Task Force Update

By: Judy Carbone, AAUW MD Co-Vice President Public Policy and ERA Task Force Chair

Judy Carbone continues to work with the Maryland Equal Rights Action Network (MERAN) as part of its leadership team. Maryland SJ01, the Resolution Reaffirming Maryland’s support for the Equal Rights Amendment was approved April 6^th in a contentious floor discussion in the House. Along with other MERAN leaders, Judy attended Governor Wes Moore’s bill signing ceremony for SJ01. A copy of the reaffirming resolution was forwarded by the Department of Legislative Services and to President Joseph R. Biden; Vice President Kamala Harris; Colleen Joy Shogan (Archivist of the United States); the Maryland Congressional Delegation. Copies were also sent to all other state legislative presiding officers, with the request to circulate it among leadership of the state’s legislative branch. Judy says that her experience in this action and its results remind her that any of us can initiate a bill in our state legislature and see it through to the end.

As ERA Taskforce Chair for AAUW-Maryland, Judy co-presented a session on the ERA at NCCWSL on May 31^st. The program was entitled “The Equal Rights Amendment: More Important Than Ever…And Closer Than Ever, Too!” Co-presenter Ting Ting Cheng is the Director of the ERA Project at the Center for Gender and Sexuality Law at Columbia Law School in New York. The session was only an hour, but after Judy gave an overview of the ERA and its status, Ting Ting spent the remaining 45 minutes answering questions from a very engaged and interested student audience. Meghan Kissell, AAUW Public Policy Director, also attended the session and was very complimentary to both presenters about their session.

In March, as President of AAUW-Garrett Branch, Judy gave a presentation on the ERA to a Psychology of Women class at Garrett College. None of the students in the class knew about the Equal Rights Amendment, and, like many Americans, they thought that gender equality was already guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. Judy also talked about NCCWSL in the class in hopes a student might be interested in attending. (See the Garrett Branch report for more details.)

Please contact Judy with any questions at judy@corgi-cottage.com or at 301-616-5036. And if you haven’t already done so, please sign the petition at www.sign4era.org and get everyone you know across the country to do the same!! Thank you!

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Update

By Gloria Salazar, MSW, Representing Garrett Branch

During the 2023–2024, Garrett County’s Diversity & Inclusion (DI) Advisory Committee concluded its community experience survey and listening tours. These activities explored ways to enhance or improve the lives of those living in the County. The AAUW Garrett Branch DEI Committee Chair participated on this committee. (Notably, only two counties in the state of Maryland have formal DEI Committees, Garrett and Washington. During this last year, there was an attempt to disband the Washington County DEI Committee, but with sufficient public pressure, the Committee remains active.) The Garrett County DI Advisory Committee will formally submit its final summary report to the Board of County Commissioners on July 3, 2024, and then it will be available to the public in electronic format. AAUW-Garrett Branch members plan to attend this meeting.

The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) is conducting listening tours throughout the state. Several members of the Garrett County DEI Committee and AAUW Garrett Branch members were present at one session to share their findings and experiences. Please visit the MCCR website to look for a listening tour in your area.

AAUW Garrett Branch will join the Garrett County NAACP (GCNAACP) in the first ever Pride celebration in Garrett County on Saturday, June 15, 2024. AAUW-Garrett Branch will be tabling at this event. GCNAACP, with AAUW Garrett Branch member participation, hosted several events in 2023, including the Kwanza celebration, presentations by well-known civil rights leaders, monthly PRIDE events, and an MLK Day Celebration

Pact, an adoption alliance, will be conducting a week-long camp for 150 adopted children of color and their families in Garrett County, and GCNAACP will be assisting participants. AAUW-Garrett Branch will help with this event in any way we can.

GCNAACP/AAUW members spoke publicly at a school board meeting where high school students were requesting that a PRIDE flag be taken down by one of their teachers. The teacher in question is an AAUW-Garrett Branch member and our branch was represented at the school board meeting to support her and advocate for equity. Support for the teacher and her desire to have an inclusive classroom was overwhelming, and the flag remained. One month later, the teacher resigned from teaching because she no longer could withstand the bullying and pressure from students and their parents as well as the lack of support from the school board. Our branch will continue to advocate for equity with the school board.

BRANCH ACTIVITIES

Gaithersburg Branch Annual Used-Book Sale & Celebrating Mary Wykes

By Edie Allison

The Gaithersburg branch celebrated Honorary Life Member Mary Wykes’ 99^th birthday at a potluck lunch June 1. Mary has held branch officer positions multiple times and continues to be active in branch meetings and special interest groups including Great Decisions and HerStory. Her success at living a long and fruitful life may be enhanced by her continuing involvement with family, church, AAUW, and continuing work as a real-estate agent.

Gaithersburg branch used book sale, April 2024, was a wonderful success. The book dealers and shoppers came by the dozens with happy faces and left with bags or boxes of their chosen reading materials. Asbury Methodist Village hosted the sale, and its residents were particularly appreciative of the return of the book sale after five years, as many are not able to go out to other bookstores. We raised thousands of dollars for scholarships at Montgomery College and the Universities at Shady Grove. The final amount will be determined after all our expenses are tallied. Several families unable to afford books for their children were given bags of books for their families to enjoy. After the sale was completed, four local non-profit organizations took about 70 boxes of unsold books to use with their programs.

After the sale, over a hundred volunteers helped with set-up, sorting, customer service, and clean-up. These included about 75 students, as well as Asbury residents and members of Gaithersburg and other AAUW Branches. We owe them our deep appreciation as our branch has fewer members and many are unable to assist in moving heavy boxes.

Garrett County Branch Activities and Plans

By Judy A. Carbone, Branch President

Thirteen members and possible members attended the AAUW-Garrett Branch Annual General Membership Meeting on May 22nd at the Green Turtle in McHenry, MD. It was a good meeting to plan for the upcoming year, elect officers, and celebrate all that we have accomplished in the past year. Judy Carbone and Linda Carr were re-elected for their 8th term as President and Vice President, respectively. Kathy Zimmer was elected in as Vice President of Membership; Elaine Formsby was elected in as Treasurer; and Linda Herdering was elected in as Secretary. Committee Chairs to continue include Christine Campe-Price as Scholarship Chair and Gloria Salazar as Diversity Chair. Judi Merriman will continue as lead for Legislative Issues, especially in terms of notifying members and supporters of activist opportunities issued by MLAW.

The End of the Line Bookstore opened for the 2024 summer season on May 18th with Linda Carr serving her final year as Bookstore Manager. Members Gloria Salazar and Maxine Shindel will be managers-in-training this summer and take over as Co-Managers at the end of the year. On June 8th, a one-day sale helped move some of the remaining books. The bookstore has raised several thousand dollars each summer by selling donated books for no more than $1 each. AAUW-Garrett Branch manages the bookstore, with our branch and a local Girl Scout Troop providing volunteers throughout the summer. Funds are distributed based on the amount of time spent volunteering.

Christine Came-Price has done an amazing job in her second year as Chair of the Scholarship Committee. The committee has awarded 10 scholarships to date to women continuing their post-secondary education for a total of almost $9,000. One additional scholarship will be awarded later this summer. Our scholarships are awarded to selected County high school graduates, Garrett College transfer students to Allegany College for Allied Health degrees or transferring to a 4-year institution to complete their bachelor’s degrees, and non-traditional aged women attending Garrett College for the first time in either certificate or degree programs. We also award scholarships from a General Scholarship line item to women seeking funds for other educational purposes.

After Judy made a presentation to a Garrett college class in March, one student requested sponsorship to attend NCCWSL (The deadline to apply for NCCWSL scholarships had passed). The Scholarship Committee decided to award a scholarship to Alayna Savage for this purpose. Alayna has worked to keep the AAUW-Garrett College Student Chapter open, even though she hasn’t been able to recruit many student members. Our branch will most definitely work with her on this.

For the past 4 years, AAUW-Garrett Branch has been the lead sponsor and organizer of the Women’s Equality Day (WED) Celebration in Garrett County, a collaboration of several local women’s organizations. WED2024 will be held on Monday, August 26th at the Career and Technical Training Center of Garrett College. The topic this year will be Title IX and its role in women’s equality, and Meghan Kissell from AAUW will be our keynote speaker. We will invite Equity Officers from Garrett College and the Garrett County Public Schools to discuss their programs and activities.

Howard County Branch Ongoing Activities

By Beth Hayden, Branch President

At our May 14^th meeting, our speaker was a fraud prevention expert from AARP, Ted Meyerson, who presented information on Identity Theft–how it happens and how to protect ourselves from the criminals in our current environment.

Planned activities over the summer include monthly meetings of our Special Interest Groups— Great Decisions,” AAUW Readers, Adventures in Dinning, Lunch Bunch, and helping at the Howard County Food Bank.

Howard County Branch officers recognized for their work. In front, Susan Hailman. Back row from the left: Beth Hayden, Bobbi Brooks, Jeanne Parr, Cindy Graham, Barb Carter (holding plant), Carol Phelps, Diane Roca, Bea Dane, Suzanne Soules.

2024 Calendar

June 22^nd: Transition Board Meeting at Christine Schmitz’ home
July 20^th: AAUW MD Summer Conference in Baltimore at Grace United Methodist Church
September 27^th-29^th: AAUW Atlantic Regional Conference in Glen Allen, Virginia
November 23^rd: MLAW (Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women} Fall Agenda Conference at The Meeting House, Columbia, MD (Registration available in August

Donate to the Maryland Women of Distinction Fund by March 31

Donate to the AAUW Maryland Women of Distinction Fund. You will be helping Maryland honor it’s Woman of Distinction as the Platinum sponsor of the AAUW Women of Distinction Ceremony at the 2019 National Conference for Collegiate Women Students.

Follow the directions below!

Go to: the AAUW NCCWSL Donation page. You will be redirected to the AAUW NCCWSL Donate page.
Click on the button next to: Use my gift to support Maryland Women of Distinction (NCCWSL) Fund.
Indicate whether you want monthly or a onetime donation and the amount. Then click Donate.

Our 2019 Maryland Woman of Distinction, Judy Carbone, will be honored at the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders (NCCWSL) on May 31^st in College Park. AAUW Maryland will honor Judy by providing a sponsorship of $20,000, which is made possible by generous donations from our members and other friends. To date, we have raised $6,500. The Conference brings more than 1000 students from around the country together at UM College Park for several days. Not only do they learn leadership skills, but they meet women, such as Judy, who are incredible role models.

We need your support to ensure we raise the needed funds by March 31^st!

Help Close the Pay Gap — End Reliance on Salary History in Maryland

Right now, lawmakers in Annapolis are considering S.B. 738/H.B. 634. This important bill would prohibit employers from relying on a job applicant’s salary history to determine pay, a practice that perpetuates the pay gaps women and people of color face in their careers. But this legislation may not move forward unless lawmakers hear from you now.

Click here to contact your state legislators and urge them to pass S.B. 738/H.B. 634 today!

Salary history is not a neutral factor by which to set pay, and it doesn’t determine an applicant’s qualifications for a position. Relying on salary history in the hiring process can:

Force some workers, particularly women and people of color who are generally paid less than white, non-Hispanic men, to carry lower earnings and pay discrimination from job to job.
Penalize those who reduced their work hours in prior jobs to care for children or other family members.
Depress wages for individuals who have previously worked in nonprofits or the public sector and are moving into higher paying fields.

This bill also requires employers to provide a job applicant the salary range for a position upon request, an additional way to increase transparency and narrow the gender pay gap.

Banning the use of salary history in the hiring process and sharing salary ranges can make meaningful change in closing the pay gap. Urge your legislators to pass S.B. 738/H.B. 634!

AAUW MD Addresses Proposed Changes to Title IX

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was the first comprehensive federal law to prohibit sex discrimination in education. It covers women and men, girls and boys, and staff and students in any educational institution or program that receives federal funds. This includes local school districts, colleges and universities, for-profit schools, career and technical education agencies, libraries, and museums. Music classes or choirs, sex education classes, and sports involving bodily contact are exempt from Title IX, as are religious institutions if the law would violate their religious tenets. Admissions policies at private undergraduate institutions are also exempt.

The Department of Education has announced a plan to make sweeping changes to Title IX’s regulations, which would have significant implications for students’ civil rights. Specifically, the proposed rule would weaken Title IX’s protections by narrowing the definition of sexual harassment to allow schools to exclude much of the abuse students experience, limiting when schools will respond, and putting in place processes that make it harder for students to come forward when they experience sexual harassment or assault. Simply put, these changes will make schools less safe for students.

Erin Prangley, VP for Public Policy submitted comments to the proposed rules on behalf of AAUW Maryland. The letter states in part:

“Sexual harassment pervades the lives of students. According to research by AAUW, sexual harassment can have damaging effects on academic outcomes, careers, families and even the health of those affected. Student activism on college campuses has brought to light a culture in which sexual harassment is still pervasive, and its harm too often ignored. AAUW research has found that women on college campuses and girls in junior high and high school frequently experience sexual harassment, sexual abuse or assault, and other crimes or behavior that constitute sex discrimination under Title IX. These experiences hurt their ability to focus on their academic goals and can diminish their equal access to educational opportunities.

In Crossing the Line: Sexual Harassment at School, AAUW found nearly half of students in grades 7-12 experienced harassment in the 2010–11 school year (56 percent of girls and 40 percent of boys. Of that number, 87 percent said it had a negative effect on them. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of college students experience sexual harassment at some point during college, including nearly one-third of first-year students, according to AAUW’s Drawing the Line: Sexual Harassment on Campus.

We believe Maryland’s educational ecosystem has a problem identifying and handling sexual harassment, including assault at all levels of education. Even though several peer reviewed studies find sexual harassment to be rampant, 68.6 percent of higher education campuses in Maryland reported zero incidents of sexual assault, including rape and fondling, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking — a shocking statistic given how frequently these incidents occur on campuses. In addition, 85.9 percent of the public schools with students in grades 7 through 12 in Maryland disclosed zero reported allegations of harassment or bullying on the basis of sex. These numbers do not square with what research shows students experience. Despite schools’ legal obligation to address these issues, improvement in both welcoming students’ reports of sexual harassment and violence — and accurately disclosing those incidents in annual reporting—has been slow at all levels of education. These findings further demonstrate our need for full enforcement of strong Title IX and the Clery Act provisions, not a rollback of critical protections for students who experience incidents that are already frequently under- and inaccurately reported.”

She then describes the specific ways in which the proposed regulations roll back critical protections. Read the full letter.

The public comment period for the proposed changes to Title IX regulations ended on January 30. Over 100,000 comments were submitted. The Department of Education will now consider the submitted comments and finalize regulations in the coming months.

AAUW Maryland 2018 Summer Conference

On July 21 members of AAUW Maryland convened at Harford Community College and enjoyed the theme AAUW-MD in Paradise. Nora Putt and Tracy Lantz, AAUW MD’s Program Vice Presidents, organized an agenda packed with Hawaiian culture and sprinkled with leadership training. Since we couldn’t all go to Hawaii—they brought Hawaii to us. As they walked through the door, each attendee was personally greeted in typical Hawaiian E Komo Mai (Welcome) with a presentation of a Hawaiian Lei.

Tracy began by leading a discussion of two TED talks: Suzanne Simard on “How Trees Talk to Each Other” and Richard Preston on “The Mysterious Lives of Giant Trees.” . These inspiring presentations encourage getting out in the world and learning from what we can observe, recognizing opportunities for new growth, saving the “mother trees”—those who nurture others—and regenerating with diversity.

Past-President of AAUW Maryland and member of AAUW’s national Board of Directors, Eileen Menton briefly reviewed the new strategic plan for AAUW. Four areas of focus in the plan include Education & Training, Economic Security, Leadership, and AAUW Governance & Sustainability. Eileen encouraged branch leaders to discuss how their branch can contribute to the goals included in the overall plan.

Kate Campbell Stevenson and Susan Wierman, Co-Presidents of AAUW MD, then led the group in a discussion of what we value in AAUW, the challenges faced by Maryland branches, and how leaders with a variety of skills can contribute to meeting the challenges—there is no one right way, and branches can take different paths. Branches were encouraged to reach out to State officers and other branches for assistance with branch challenges. Sharing events with other branches or partnering on specific programs are encouraged. Your state officers are there to help you—please do not hesitate to contact them.

The day included breakout sessions Defining our Ohana-Maryland Women, Present and Future-designed to help new and seasoned branch leaders share and learn from each other. Topics included membership, communication, branch presidents, and action planning.

Finally, the AAUW MD Board of Directors met to approve continued support for legislative priorities that didn’t get approved in 2018’s General Assembly session, set a goal to raise funds for a Maryland Woman of Distinction to be recognized at the 2019 National Conference for Collegiate Women Student Leaders, and discuss plans for the 2019 AAUW MD Convention.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

HEADS UP! – MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

MAKE PLANS NOW TO ATTEND THE 2026 AAUW ATLANTIC STATES REGIONAL CONFERENCE!

BRANCH ACTIVITIES

JOIN US FOR BLUEPRINT DAY 2026: AAUW MARYLAND WILL BE THERE!

THANK YOU TO AAUW MARYLAND LEADERS

Thanks also to each Branch President, who is also a member of the Board of Directors!

AAUW Maryland encourages members to consider serving on the State Board.

CALENDAR 2026-27

~ Happy Holidays! Don’t Forget to Register Early for the 2026 Regional Conference! ~

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

NOTICE TO MEMBERS: PROPOSED STATE DUES INCREASE FOR 2026-27 FISCAL YEAR

SUMMER MEETING AND BOARD MEETING SUMMARY

Heather Reichardt and Del. Lily Qi, during the Spring Convention

MAKE PLANS NOW TO ATTEND OUR 2025 AAUW MARYLAND FALL CONFERENCE!

Maryland’s Native Americans, Past to Future

Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs with Gov. Wes Moore

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

FUNDS REPORT

2026 AAUW ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE

BRANCH ACTIVITIES

Garrett County Branch shared needed supplies with women attending their Women’s Equality Day event, August 26th.

THANKS TO AAUW MARYLAND LEADERS!

Thanks also to each Branch President, who is also a member of the Board of Directors!

AAUW Maryland encourages members to consider serving on the State Board.

2025-26 CALENDAR

~ Happy Fall! See you at the AAUW MD Fall Conference on October 18! ~

Table of Contents:

President’s Message

2025 AAUW Maryland Summer Meeting

New Tools to Increase our Effectiveness for Educational Equity

Join us for the virtual AAUW Maryland Summer Meeting where we’ll discuss important topics and connect with fellow members online!

Saturday, July 26, 2025 | Virtual via Zoom | 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Event Registration: Online Registration (You will receive a Zoom link as the meeting date approaches)

Event Agenda:

Public Policy Update

By Roxann King, Co-Vice President for Public Policy

State News

National News

AAUW Official Statement on Support for Universities

AAUW Maryland Convention Program Highlights

By Yvonne Higgins, Baltimore Branch Co-President

What is AAUW’s Five Star Program?

AAUW Launches New Strategic Plan

Branch Activities

Anne Arundel County Branch Scholarships Awarded

By Roxann King

Baltimore Branch Update

By Yvonne Higgins, Co-President

Harford County Branch Remembers Bernadette Low

By Jeanne Blades, Membership VP

Kensington Rockville Branch Update

By Dian Belanger, Branch President

Membership Matters Tip – Shape the Future for New Members

AAUW Guidance on Public Demonstrations

Your AAUW MD Leaders

SPECIAL THANKS to those newly elected/re-elected at the 2025 AAUW Maryland Convention:

AAUW Maryland encourages members to consider serving on the State Board.

2025 Calendar

Table of Contents:

President’s Message

2025 AAUW Maryland State Convention

Women Supporting Women: Global Influences and Opportunities

Hosted by the Gaithersburg Branch of AAUW – MD

Saturday, April 26, 2025 | Pathways Baptist Church 200 West Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg MD 20877 | Directions to Pathways Baptist Church

Event Registration: Online Registration | Paper Registration Form

Event Agenda:

Meet the Nominees!

Submitted by the 2025 Nominating Committee: Anita Rosen, Chair

Throughout her career, she has always worked with adult learners as well and still teaches as an online adjunct instructor for Goucher College believing that one of the foremost ways to improve education within our schools is by helping teachers to adopt exceptional instructional practices.

The AAUW Archives Corps Invites You!

By Dian Belanger

Spring 2025 Public Policy Update

By Roxann King, Co-Vice President for Public Policy

HB629/SB549 Stop Silencing Survivors. This bill provides additional protection from retaliatory litigation for sexual assault survivors. Sex offenders have been suing victims for slander to discourage reporting assaults.

HB1050/SB943 Firearm Relinquishment. This bill aims to close gaps in the current protective order by ensuring firearms are relinquished or removed from abusers.

HB930/SB848 Abortion Care Access Fund Act of 2025. This bill establishes the Abortion Care Access Fund to assist Maryland abortion providers serving uninsured and underinsured people, using $25 million in unspent insurance premiums accumulated over the last 10 years.

SB 632/HB1198 The Monica Cooper Prerelease Act. This bill requires the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services to implement comprehensive rehabilitative services to women classified in the prerelease status in the Life Skills and Reentry Center for Women.

HB424/SB357 Prescription Drug Affordability Board Act. This bill expands the authority of Maryland’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board to allow them to set upper payment limits for all Marylanders. HB 424 passed the House and was referred to the Senate Finance Comm.

Garrett County Branch shared needed supplies with women
attending their Women’s Equality Day event, August 26th.