Advancing gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy

American Association of University Women Austin, TX Branch

FY 25-26 Vol. 7 February 2026 Newsletter

One of our favorite months of the year has to be February. Why? Because it isn't January anymore, and we might celebrate with chocolates, flowers, and expressions of love. It also encourages us to pursue a deeper understanding and appreciation of the significant history and contributions of black Americans. Our program on February 14th (not the 4th) will feature Jennifer Rousseau Cumberbatch presenting her film “History: A Common Bond," an exploration of how Black history is American History. For more info and to save your spot, click here: RSVP here

A Message from Co-President, Shirlene Justice

Whew! The holidays are finally over. The house has been tidied up, the leftover sweets have been thrown in the compost bin, resolutions have been made and already broken. It is time to relax, kick up our feet, and enjoy some cool weather. NOT for us, no Ma'am! That is not the way we roll. January has been an action-packed and truly exciting month for our branch. Mary Ellen Sctibner and her army of volunteers started early, working off the carbs and doing physical labor by helping the Women’s Story Book Project move into their new facility. They hauled boxes, unpacked them, and sorted and shelved books. Both strong in mind and body, these hardy women demonstrated what it means to be active in the branch. Next up, a fun and healthy fundraiser at Honest Mary’s Restaurant. They generously offered to donate 25% of sales on January 15th, netting us an extra $67. The fundraising team, led by Joyce Pulich and Brenda Hahne, is knocking it out of the park this year.

The following morning, Jackie Hardee and the Public Policy - Voter Rights Subcommittee organized a postcard signing event at Bennu Coffee, with branch members joining her to sign postcards encouraging voters to the polls. Now this might not sound like physical labor, but writing dozens of postcards is not a spectator sport. I hope no one was seriously injured. The very next week, in partnership with the League of Women Voters, we sponsored the moving and powerful film "Zurawski v. Texas." More about this event appears below, with special thanks to Anita Knight and the Public Policy – Women’s Health Subcommittee for making it happen.

Now, can we rest and just think about love? After all, February is the month of love. The answer is no. We didn’t join this branch to eat chocolate hearts. We are members because we think it is important to take action to support our mission. We are members because we want to develop relationships with other involved and engaged women. We are members because we like to do, see, and learn about interesting things. Additionally, because we are members who also like to have fun, we have two new interest groups in the works. It’s 5:00 Somewhere will have its first meeting on February 19, and Wellness 2026 will begin in March. Read more about these groups later in the newsletter and stay tuned in the coming weeks and months for other opportunities to participate.

February Guest Speaker

For over thirty years Jennifer Rousseau Cumberbatch has ministered in the Central Texas region and beyond. A teacher, preacher, pastoral care specialist, author, and playwright, she uses her multiple gifts and assorted modalities to express the depth and breadth of her belief in God’s unconditional love. Inspired by her family, Cumberbatch exudes a passion to serve the hurting, brokenhearted, and underrepresented. She is motivated by her faith to creatively transform culture and whether she is preaching to hundreds in Uganda, Africa, or caring for a troubled mother in Austin, Texas, Cumberbatch’s ministry demonstrates God’s love, intellect, thoroughness, and creativity.

Join us as Jennifer presents her film “History: A Common Bond." It is an exploration of how Black history is American History. Austin Black History bonds us together as Austinites and Americans and erasure of that history does not serve us well. The specificity in every story enhances the universal human connection, helping to build empathy and respect for others and their contributions to the collective experience, as fellow citizens, community members, and human beings made in the image of God.

Zurawski v Texas: An Emotionally Powerful, Informative,

and Compelling Film

Photos: Rep Donna Howard, Amanda Zurawski, Dr. Amna Dermish, and Carol Eckelkamp

Our special screening of this film at the Austin Film Society was the latest in over 100 showings of the documentary film ZURAWSKI V TEXAS around the USA and the world. The film revealed the dire impacts of losing access to healthcare options, specifically in cases of health emergencies during pregnancy that threaten lives, families, fertility and physical and emotional health. The callous actions and attitudes of many elected officials involved in opposing the lawsuit was a stark reminder of where things currently stand in our state. Importantly, we also witnessed the extraordinary efforts of the women and men fighting on the frontlines to regain those rights and protect women's reproductive health and the treatment options that should be available to them.

The stellar panel presentation that followed the film featured the lead plaintiff in the case, Amanda Zurawski, as well as TX Representative Donna Howard and Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas COO/Medical Services Officer Dr. Amna Dermish. The League's Carol Eckelkamp moderated. Their thoughts, insights and experiences were compelling, heart-wrenching, and instructive, encouraging us to take every opportunity to advocate for legislation that would repeal the heartbeat bill, protect access to Plan B contraceptives, and oppose any further efforts to curtail access to abortion.

Thank you to the following individuals who helped organize and execute this important event. 135 tickets were sold, and 106 attended.

AAUW Public Policy subcommittee on women's healthcare: Lauren Grossman, Vicky Hines, Shirlene Justice, Anita Knight, Cynthia Roberts, Suki Steinhauser, Terry Whaley
League of Women Voters of the Austin Area: Jaci Collins, Carol Eckelkamp, Cynthia Griffin, Debbi Voss
Distinguished Panelists: Amanda Zurawski, Dr. Amna Dermish, State Rep. Donna Howard
Other: Cerena Haefs, Community Outreach Specialist for Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas; volunteer photographer Ling Zhu

It was a special occasion to work closely with the League of Women Voters of the Austin Area to present this film. We hope to collaborate whenever possible on future efforts to impact public perceptions and legislative actions on this and other shared concerns.

New AAUW member Vicky Hines expressed her thoughts on this event: "As a new member—both to the branch and to the Public Policy Committee—I found this experience deeply rewarding. The film and panel discussion were excellent (per the summary above), but what stood out most to me was seeing an idea move from conversation to action. At a time when it’s easy to feel discouraged, this event was a reminder that meaningful progress often starts simply—with showing up, working together, and staying engaged. For those who may be curious about becoming more involved, the Public Policy Committee offers many ways to participate, at whatever level feels right."

Vicky Hines , new member as of September 2025

Second Chance to Buy the Shirt and Wear the Shirt

Did you miss the ordering deadline or select the wrong size? After seeing other members in blue AAUW Austin tees did you want one, too? We've worn them to our volunteer work with Women’s Storybook Project and to help write postcards or register others to vote. They've been seen in high style at our branch meetings.

A second opportunity to order is now open, and this time, in addition to the women’s body-style shirt, we are able to order the same color and logo in a unisex shirt style with straight body lines and standard crew neck for the same price. Because we expect to order fewer shirts this time, the cost is about $29. Use the link below to order the correct size and style you want and pay for your shirt with your own credit card or use Pay Pal. The complete order will be delivered to one address (saves $10 per shirt) for distribution at a branch or interest group meeting. The order is open now and will close on January 31 with the expectation of having the shirts by February 16. Here is the ordering link: https://www.customink.com/g/uen0-00d1-4agk. If you have questions, please email maryescribner@gmail.com.

Public Policy Issues and Volunteering

VOTING + OTHER ACTIONS -- Anita Knight

Primary elections decide who makes it onto the November ballot, and they matter more than most people realize, especially here in Texas. Make a plan to vote – voting early is better than by mail. Voting by mail in Texas is available for elderly and disabled voters, but it can be complicated and may be problematic with political changes and challenges. (https://www.votetexas.gov/voting-by-mail/index.html) Consider watching this AAUW webinar on January 29th, 2:00 PM CST, "Advocacy in an Election Year: Staying Nonpartisan While Taking Real Action". Register at Event Information - AAUW

✔️ Register to vote by February 2

✔️ Early voting starts February 17 (through the 27^th)

✔️ Election Day is March 3

DEFEND THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

AAUW of Texas organized a sign-on letter to U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz urging congressional oversight of the U.S. Department of Education's unlawful transfer of Department of Education (ED) roles, responsibilities, and funds to other federal agencies through interagency agreements. (See statement from AAUW National.)

ABORTION – I hope many of you attended the film showing of Zurawski v TX on Jan. 20. For more information on our positions and policies, go to https://www.aauw.org/resources/policy/position-repro/. Also starting is an ACLU series -- Texans of different races, ages, and genders are joining together once again through the Texas Abortion Advocacy Network (TAAN) Academy. Weekly classes are held virtually from 6 – 7:30 p.m. CT from 1/20/26 - 3/24/26. Attendees will have the opportunity to share their experiences, identify gaps in care and resources, and discuss what’s missing in local healthcare and advocacy.

BRANCH MEMBERS VOLUNTEER WITH THE WOMEN’S STORYBOOK PROJECT -- Mary Ellen Scribner

What began as a one-time service project for the Contemporary Literature interest group has become an ongoing volunteer opportunity for branch members to be involved with the Women’s Storybook Project. [Several branch members have been involved with WSP for several years as volunteers at their program sites]. The mission of WSP, a nonprofit headquartered in Austin, is connecting children with their incarcerated moms through the joy of literature and shared story books.

In January, four teams of branch members assisted WSP with its move to a new facility (500 East St. John's Avenue; 2nd Floor, Suite 2.800) by unpacking books and setting up the new library. These volunteers were Mary Ellen Scribner, Lynn Gambrill, Resa Dunn, and Ruth Subramanian (below left); Gayle Kanies, Suki Steinhauser, Ann Berasley, and Louise Jordan (below center); Ruth Cook, Terry Whaley, Jackie Hardee, Kathryn Pew, and Cathy Werner (bottom center). Volunteers Dorothy Shelley, Lisa Sura, Ginny Tannebring, and Pam Wolfe are not pictured here.

The WSP also needs volunteers year-round for a variety of office work tasks, visiting the incarcerated moms, recording, mailing, fundraising, etc. If you are interested in donating your time and energy for this good cause, you can use this online volunteer signup link: https://signup.com/go/DOpyXWJ.

Election Day is March 3....PleaseVote!

February Interest Group Activity

ART TOUR

When: February 4

Time: 10 am

Where: Vera Gallery/Georgetown (NEW and arrived from New York)

Host: Berta Lloyd

Contacts: Pat Beal: patrbeal@gmail.com 512.762.9924

Devon Austin: devonaustin@msn.com 562.225.7681

BRIDGE GROUP

When: February 12 and February 26

Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Where: North Lamar Senior Activity Center 29th & North Lamar

Contact: Elaine Penn: epenn9915@gmail.com 512-328-3100

CENTRAL BOOK GROUP

When: Monday, February 9

Time: 10:30 am

Where: La Madeleine, 5493 Brodie Lane, Austin, Tx.

Book: “James” Author Percival Everett

Facilitator: Anita Knight

Contact: Linda Quintanilla: quintalin@gmail.com 713.202.8525

CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE

When: Monday, February 2

Time: 7 pm

Where: Zoom

Book: “The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year” Author Margaret Renkl

Facilitator: Lisa Sura

Contact: Mary Ellen Schribner: maryescribner@gmail.com 512.698.5539

CREATIVE STITCHERY

When: Wednesday, February 18

Time: 10:00 am

Where: 2023 Cerwin Blvd., Austin

Project: Quilt Sandwiching

Hosts: Linda Welsh and Janet Cobb

Contact: Beverly Locklin: bklocklin@outlook.com 512.633.2902

CULTURE AND CUISINE

When: Thursday, February 12

Time: 6 PM

Theme: Mediterranean

Hosts: Shirlene Justice and Suki Steinhauser

Where: TBD

Contact: Ann Gibbs: agibbs5200@gmail.com, 512.250.1203

FRIDAY MORNING BOOK REVIEW

When: Friday, February 6

Time: 10:00 am

Where: Church of Christ at Hyde Park 10 West Avenue B

Book: “Kate Vaiden” author Reynolds Price

Facilitator: Millie Segal

Contact: Judy Reinhart: jareinhart@att.net, 512.345.5936

HIKING

Hike 1

When: Thursday, February 5

Time: 10 am

Where: Mayfield and Laguna Gloria

Leader: Linda Welsh Contacts: Kate DiPronio: ktlee523@gmail.com 512.924.9061

Gayle Kanies,gayle.kaines@gmail.com 512.587.7747

Hike 2

When: Friday, February 20 and Saturday, February 21

Time: TBD

Where: Seminole Canyon and The Shaman Cave

Leader: Jackie Hardee

Contacts: Kate DiPronio: ktlee523@gmail.com 512.924.9061

Gayle Kanies,gayle.kaines@gmail.com 512.587.7747

MAHJONG

When: Thursday, Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26

Time: 1-4:00 pm

Where: N. Lamar Senior Activity Center 2874 Shoal Crest Ave (29th and North Lamar)

Contact: Connie Munoz, comunoz1@yahoo.com 361.813.8012

Bring your updated mahjong card; join other Thursday players to fill tables

MYSTERY INTEREST GROUP

When: February 24

Time: 11:00 AM

Book: Mystery around a holiday theme.

Place: BJ's Brewhouse, The Shops at Arbor Walk, 10515 N. Mopac Expy

Contact: Pam Wolfe: piwolfe@yahoo.com 512.925.7865

OUT TO LUNCH

When: Tuesday, February 17

Time: 11:15 AM

Where: Sixty Vines, 3401 Esperanza Crossing @ The Domain

Planner: Cathy Werner

Contact: Elaine Penn: epenn9915@gmail.com 512-328-3100

PEARS

When: Sunday, February 21

Time: 1:00 PM

Where: Aba Restaurant, Mediterranean Food, 1011 S. Congress, Bldg. 2 Suite 180 Austin

Contact: Milli Stecker: mstecker@austin.rr.com 512-468-1088

SOUTHWEST BOOK GROUP

When: Monday, February 9

Time: 10:30 – 12:30 pm

Book: “James” Author Percival Everett (F) PP (321)

Facilitator: Kathy Stewart

Host/Where: Marsha Endahl-Kramer, 6907 Telluride Trail, Austin

Contact: Brenda Hahne: bwhahne@gmail.com 832.233.4254

WINE TASTERS

When: Sunday, February 15

Time: TBD

Theme: French Sparkling

Hosts: Brenda Hahne and Kathy Stewart

Where: TBD

Contact: Elaine Penn: epenn9915@gmail.com 512-328-3100

**Save the Date - The first meeting of the new interest group, It's 5:00 Somewhere, will be on Thursday, February 19, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Hanks, 5811 Berkman Drive, Ste. 100. When we meet, we can agree on future meeting locations and confirm whether this week works for us to meet each month. We envision rotating among different parts of town so more branch members have an opportunity to participate. Please note: you do not need to be an alcohol drinker to participate. Good food and company are the main points of this group.

If you would like to be included on the invite list, please email:

Terry Whaley or Shirlene Justice

February Fundraising News

Thanks to everyone who ate at Honest Mary’s on January 15 (some of our group is pictured above). It was a good way to raise money for the National Greatest Needs fund and to keep those resolutions about eating healthy food in 2026.

Please continue to collect your spare change and bring it to branch meetings. Members contributed $58 at the January meeting – those funds stay with the branch.

We will be selling See’s candy and handmade greeting cards at branch meetings. We hope to run out of candy in February.

Our next event will be an appetizer exchange on March 7 from 2-4 pm at Kathy Stewart’s home. Tickets will be available for purchase for $25 at the February branch meeting. Participants will bring an appetizer and the accompanying recipe. Everyone will leave with recipes and snacks. We can chat while sipping wine and margaritas and sampling the snacks. [Please note that participation is limited to 25].

Mark your calendar to visit the Kendra Scott flagship store on South Congress on May 1. A percentage of sales that day will be donated to the branch and sent to AAUW's Greatest Needs fund. Thanks again to all for your help!

Joyce Pulich and Brenda Hahne, Funds Committee Chairs

Named Gift Honorees

Please think about the good work of our members and take advantage of this opportunity to recognize them for their contributions through our Named Gifts.

Each year, members of the Austin Branch are selected to be honored as recipients of Named Gifts. We think of our colleagues who have, for example:

• Held a branch position and completed duties in an exceptional manner,

• Led a project,

• Served over time in multiple roles,

• Represented the branch to other groups in an outstanding manner, or

• Always gave a helping hand with branch activities.

If you would like to copy a form, there is one here. If you prefer, it is fine to make nominations by explaining your support of the nominee without using the form. Please send submissions by March 15, 2026 to Larayne Dallas, at ldallas@austin.utexas.edu or by mail at 8118 Cardin Drive; Austin, TX 78759-8737.

A Note on State Awards. As this is a state conference year for Texas, special awards to honor members at the state level are often given. We do not, however, expect that state awards will be given this year.

Larayne Dallas, Chair of the Named Gifts Committee

Interest Groups Take Us Out and About

Pictured to the left and above are Wine Group members at Roberta's (for non-alcohol tastings); photos of our happy Hiking Group on the Violet Crown Trail, and Culture & Cuisine members sharing holiday cookies. Although the holidays and weather changed some of our groups' plans in December and January, we still managed to enjoy ourselves with our AAUW friends and hiking buddies.

Our Monthly Programs Engage Us with Great Speakers, AAUW Friends, and New Members

For our January program, Amy Bawcom, a member of our branch and also Senior Director of Leadership Giving at ACC spoke to us about the programs provided at ACC that improve a student's chance for educational success.

An average student might be in her mid-20s with multiple work and family obligations. She might have wonderful wishes for her future and also worries about work and family obligations. These life situations can impact her ability to pursue her goals and make attendance difficult and completion less likely.

ACC's programs work to create a path to success for these students, by addressing and providing access, affordability, academic resources, and a caring and inclusive environment that create a sense of connection and help insure student success.