As I write this message, I know we are breathing a sigh of relief and satisfaction after a very successful Purses with Purpose Purse Auction. Many hours and much energy has been put into the event, and we can be proud of all our accomplishments toward funding such amazing scholarships.

First, and foremost, kudos to Georgi Proulx, chairperson of the event, who has planned and implemented procedures to make this event the best ever! From streamlining checkout procedures, following up on progress with the committee chairs to interfacing with Camano Center administration, we do thank her for such dedication to the cause. Secondly, I want to recognize some of the busiest chairpersons: Jackie DeFazio for keeping track of inventory, cleaning gently-used purses; procurement of gift certificates and purses by Mary Pilkington; Anne Milton for her outstanding live auction purse descriptions and display; Martha Huyler for a descriptive program with excellent photos; Lynda Buehring for set up and bagging efforts; Mary Chesney for working on reservations and seating arrangements; Gay Campbell for her exquisite banned books quilt and the book group for making that auction item extra special; Cathlin Starke and Linda Parker for table arrangements and ,finally, all members who donated purses, helped with set up, and attended the event.

We look forward to the annual AAUW High School STEM Scholar Recognition and Tech Trek announcement on Thursday, May 9, at 7:00 p.m. One of our special events is to celebrate the female junior students from the area high schools who are tops in their class in the STEM fields. As usual, there are some amazing students this year, nominated by high school staff, who are involved in many activities/sports/academics at their respective schools. Also, we’ll meet the seventh grade girls nominated by their STEM teachers and will be attending Tech Trek STEM camp at Pacific Lutheran University in July. Thank you to Lael Williams and Linda Demetre for organizing the High School STEM Scholar Recognition and to Mary Chesney and her committee for interviewing/selecting the campers.