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President's Message
Empowering Progress: Reflecting on Impact, Advancing Equality
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Dear AAUW Members,
As we close out another program year and look toward summer, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your continued commitment to advancing gender equity in education, leadership, and beyond. It has been a challenging yet rewarding year, and your dedication has made a real difference in our communities.
This month, as we celebrate progress, let us also take time to reflect on the road ahead. The AAUW Florida leadership team is hard at work planning upcoming events, advocacy campaigns, and community outreach programs. We are excited for what lies ahead and look forward to collaborating with each of you in the coming months.
I also want to highlight the importance of self-care as we approach the summer months. Take time to recharge, and don’t forget to share your experiences and insights with us as we continue to build a vibrant, supportive community across Florida. Let us continue to move forward in our mission to advance gender equity through research, education, and advocacy.
As a reminder branch presidents, please update the community hub and submit the annual survey by 30 June 2025.
Thank you again for your passion and dedication.
"Together we are stronger! Together we can make a difference!"
In solidarity,
K. Lee-Smith, Ph.D.
AAUW Florida President
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AAUW Florida Annual Meeting Highlights
The AAUW Florida Annual Meeting was called to order on May 15, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. It was a successful meeting filled with key organizational updates and opportunities for engagement. Our annual elections for board officers and the nominating committee were also conducted.
We were honored to welcome AAUW CEO Gloria Blackwell at our annual town hall, held at the conclusion of this year’s state meeting. Mrs. Blackwell addressed member questions and provided insightful updates on key initiatives, including the new AAUW strategic plan, highlights from the annual report, and the results of the recent national election.
The AAUW Florida Board of Directors' annual reports will be published soon on the AAUW Florida website. Thank you to all who attended the annual meeting and contributed to its success!
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2025-2026 AAUW Florida Nominating Committee
The AAUW Florida Board of Directors is thrilled to announce and congratulate the newly elected Nominating Committee:
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Dr. Gloria Hilton, Tampa Branch
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Dr. Mary Gatta, St. Augustine Branch
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Sally Dittman, Sun City Branch
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Karen Rompalo, Orlando Branch
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Carolyn Kershner, Gainesville Branch
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Bea Holt, Advisor, Venice Branch
The AAUW Florida Nominating Committee plays a vital role in ensuring strong, forward-looking leadership for the organization. It is responsible for identifying, recruiting, and presenting a slate of qualified candidates for elected leadership positions on the AAUW Florida Board of Directors. The committee works to ensure that the leadership reflects the diversity, talent, and dedication of our membership, helping guide AAUW Florida’s mission to advance equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy.
We look forward to their leadership in shaping the future of AAUW Florida!
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CONGRATUALTIONS
2025-2027 Newly Elected AAUW Florida Officers!
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President-Elect
Rose J. Llanos, M.A.
(Palm Beach Branch)
Rose J. Llanos has dedicated her career to advancing women’s issues and providing educational opportunities. She has held leadership positions in various sectors, including education, public policy, and community development. Her work is grounded in fostering supportive environments and driving community initiatives. Currently, she is actively involved in several AAUW committees and initiatives.
Rose’s AAUW journey began in 2017. Since then, she has held multiple leadership roles, including Membership Director on the AAUW FL Board of Directors from 2020 to July 2024. She served as the President of the AAUW FL Nova Southeastern University Branch from 2019 to 2020 and as the Program Director from 2017 to 2018. Rose is also a member of the AAUW FL Public Policy Committee and the Tech Trek Planning Committee, both since 2020.
In addition to her AAUW roles, Rose is involved in various community and professional organizations. She serves as the FL Government Relations Co-Chair for the Southern Association of College Admission Counseling and as the Co-chair for the Hispanic Special Interest Group. She is also an adjunct faculty member at Nova Southeastern University and Lynn University, where she teaches first-year experience courses.
Rose is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL. She holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs/Relations from Boston University and two Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Florida in Portuguese and Spanish.
As a first-generation Hispanic woman, Rose is grateful for the opportunities provided by AAUW, which align with the values instilled by her mother, who was unable to earn a college education. She is passionate about advocating for women’s rights, especially in the current political climate, and aims to advance opportunities in research, education, and advocacy. Rose hopes to encourage member engagement, foster connections with branches, and expand student representation in AAUW to prepare the next generation to uphold AAUW values.
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Director for Finance
Jennifer Nanek, B.A.
(Lake Wales Branch)
Jennifer Nanek has a strong background in financial management and has been a key figure in ensuring the financial health of the Lake Wales Branch. Her expertise will be invaluable in maintaining the fiscal responsibility of AAUW Florida. Currently, she serves as the City Clerk for the City of Lake Wales, CMC.
Jennifer’s AAUW journey began in 2015. She has held the position of Treasurer for the Lake Wales Branch from 2017 to the present. Her dedication to financial management has been instrumental in supporting the branch’s activities and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Jennifer holds a BA in History from Oglethorpe University, earned in 1998, and a Master’s in Public Administration from Florida Gulf Coast University, earned in 2012.
In addition to her AAUW roles, Jennifer has attended state and regional meetings, including the State Conference in Sarasota in 2018 and the Zoom conference in 2020. Her commitment to AAUW’s mission is evident in her active participation and leadership.
As a dedicated advocate, Jennifer aims to help AAUW function smoothly by upgrading processes to electronic or less paper where possible. She is committed to improving efficiency and ensuring the organization’s financial health.
Jennifer has been recognized for her contributions to the community, including being named the Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce Public Servant of the Year in 2017. She is actively involved in various community organizations, serving as Past President and current Secretary of the Rotary Club of Lake Wales, Past President and current Secretary of Ridge Audubon, Secretary of the Lake Wales History Museum Board, Treasurer of the Lake Wales Democratic Club, and State Committee Woman for the Polk County Democratic Party.
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Director for Public Policy
Patricia A. DeWitt, Ph.D.
(Jacksonville Branch)
Patricia A. DeWitt has dedicated her career to promoting thoughtful, research-based advocacy for women and girls. She has held leadership positions in various sectors, including education, public policy, and community development. Her work is grounded in fostering supportive environments and driving community initiatives. Currently, she is actively involved in several AAUW committees and initiatives.
Patricia’s AAUW journey began in 1995. She has since held multiple leadership roles, including President of the Rome, GA Branch from 2001 to 2003 and Co-President from 2003 to 2005. She is currently serving as the President of the Jacksonville, FL Branch for the 2024-2026 term. At the state level, Patricia has served as President of AAUW Florida from 2020 to 2022, President-Elect from 2019 to 2020, and Director for Public Policy from 2015 to 2017 and 2017 to 2019. She is currently the Co-Director for Public Policy for the 2023-2025 term.
In addition to her AAUW roles, Patricia is involved in various community and professional organizations. She serves as a member of the Association Public Policy Committee and has been a member of the College-University Relations Committee and the Voices Project. Patricia has attended numerous state, regional, and association meetings, demonstrating her commitment to AAUW’s mission.
Patricia holds a BA in Music from the University of Florida, an MA and PhD in Musicology from the University of Michigan, and an MS in Decision Science from Georgia State University.
As a dedicated advocate, Patricia aims to encourage branches to provide accurate, unbiased information and to make communities aware of the importance of empowering women and girls. She seeks opportunities to influence decision-makers at the state level and to collaborate with other organizations that advocate for women’s complete personhood. Patricia is committed to educating AAUW members through Public Policy Education Forums and fostering connections within the organization.
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Director for Program
Elinore Bozzone, B.A.
(Flagler Branch)
Elinore Bozzone is known for her innovative program development and commitment to educational outreach. Her work with the Flagler Branch has significantly enhanced the branch’s engagement and impact. Currently, she is a Florida Bar Registered Paralegal.
Elinore’s AAUW journey began in 2012. She has since held multiple leadership roles, including Co-VP Program from 2015 to 2017 and 2019 to 2021, and VP Program from 2022 to 2024. She has also served as the Scholarship Chair since 2016 and is currently the Branch President for the 2022-2024 term. At the association level, Elinore has been the Chair of the AAUW Local Scholarship Fund (501c3) since its inception in 2021 and is an AAUW Legacy Donor.
In addition to her AAUW roles, Elinore has attended numerous state, regional, and association meetings, including NE Regional Meetings in 2023 and 2024, where she gave a Governance Presentation in 2023.
Elinore holds a BA with high honors in Political Science from The City University of New York (Queens College), earned in 1964. She also attended The Juilliard School for piano performance, theory, and composition, having been admitted at age 7 and attended through 1964.
As a dedicated advocate, Elinore aims to broaden AAUW’s membership base by promoting diversity and inclusion starting from the individual branches. She actively advocates at the local, state, and national levels for laws and policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Elinore is committed to advocating for equitable access to education, economic security for all women, the advancement of women into leadership positions, academic freedom, and the preservation of public education.
Elinore has created the AAUW Flagler Local Scholarship Fund, a separate 501c3 that supports the branch’s scholarship activities, and the AAUW Flagler Arts Grants, awarded annually to middle school students to pursue independent study of the arts.
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FAREWELL
and heartfelt thanks to our
departing board members
On behalf of the AAUW Florida Board of Directors, we extend our deepest gratitude and warmest farewell to the following dedicated members whose terms have come to a close:
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Diana Sells, Director for Program, Bradenton
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Dr. Ellen Roche, Director for Finance, Sarasota
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Dr. Mary Gatta, Co-Director for Public Policy, St. Augustine
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Juanita Zwaryczuk, Chair, Nominating Committee, Lake Wales
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Marsha Hill, Member, Nominating Committee, Bradenton
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Jane Wattick, Member, Nominating Committee, Northern Palm Beach County
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Susan Wagner Carter, Member, Nominating Committee, New Smyrna Beach
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Jacky Territo, Member, Nominating Committee, Greater Naples
We are immensely grateful for your leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to AAUW Florida. Your contributions have strengthened our organization, advanced our mission, and inspired others to lead with purpose.
Your legacy will continue to shape our work and progress, and your impact will be felt for years to come. Thank you for your service—and we wish you continued success in all your future endeavors.
| Mandatory Bylaws Update Due | | The deadline is upon us to have all branch mandatory bylaws updated with the first seven articles required by National. Branches have been given two years to accomplish this update. Most branches have submitted their revised bylaws, however if you are in doubt regarding your submission and need to resubmit or would like a refresher on the seven articles, email AAUWflFarace@gmail.com ASAP. | | |
AAUW National Updates
Dues Change - Invest In Our Future
FY26 Membership Dues Collection Process
- The FY26 National Dues Year opened April 1, kicking off the (FY26) membership dues collection process for AAUW branches.
- FY26 National Dues: As of April 1, dues are $74 (National), $18.81 (Students), $1,480 (Lifetime). Fully tax-deductible.
Honorary Lifetime Upgrades
We have completed this year’s honorary upgrades for members with 50 years of membership and are emailing acknowledgments to branch leaders. If you have members who joined in 1975 or prior who are not listed on your roster as honorary lifetime, please complete the honorary life application form. Congratulations honorary members and thanks for your dedication!
Discounts and Waivers - Coupon Codes
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The Shape the Future Campaign discount of 50% off national dues for new members (those entirely new to AAUW or rejoining after having lapsed for two or more years) remains in effect.
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The coupon code for FY26 effective 4/1 will be "STFFY26."
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The FY26 coupon codes for AAUW College/University member students are "CUStudentFY26" for Student Associates (undergraduates) and "CUGradStudentFY26" for Graduate Students effective 4/1.
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Five-Star Program Updates: FY26 Criteria and New Giving Options
We are pleased to announce that the FY26 Five-Star Program criteria are now available on our Five-Star Program page.
AAUW Member Art Notecards Now Available!
Add a splash of inspiration to your next note with AAUW’s new Member Art Notecards, now available on our shopfront! Featuring original artwork by AAUW members, these vibrant 5" x 7" cards are perfect for thank-yous, greetings, or just brightening someone’s day. Each set includes 10 blank cards and envelopes — elegant, meaningful, and uniquely AAUW. Grab yours today and share the power of creativity and connection!
Discounts and Waivers - Coupon Codes
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. The free membership report is now available, and the deadline to claim free membership has been extended to October 31st. For students at AAUW College/University member institutions, use CUStudentFY26 for undergraduate Student Associates and CUGradStudentFY26 for Graduate Students.
Dues and Donation Checks to AAUW
AAUW branches should submit membership dues through the Community Hub. Any branch unable to process dues online, should contact connect@aauw.org for help.
Branch Donations: Email connect@aauw.org to request an Express Payment Link. Please include the amount and fund name when making requests.
Contribution Report Form: Please make a copy of the completed form and checks before sending. AAUW member IDs must be included in the form. Donations to Greatest Needs can be made online by leaders using the Renewals and Donations application.
Mail-in Contributions: Mail to P.O. Box 98045, Washington DC 20090-8045. Tracking numbers are needed to search for uncashed checks.
AAUW National Election 2025 Results
Thanks to our valued members who voted in the AAUW National Election and shared a voice in AAUW's future.
FY25 Annual Branch Survey Due June 30
We extend our sincere thanks to the over 90 branches that have already completed the FY25 Annual Branch Survey. For those who have yet to complete the survey, please remember the deadline is June 30. To assist you in this process, we have provided some helpful resources that include a downloadable PDF of the survey questions, allowing you to review and prepare your responses in advance as well as a comprehensive checklist designed to guide you through each step of the survey.
These materials are available on the Five-Star Program page.
State and Branch Officers Needed by June 30 – Don't Lose Your Hub Access Rights
Affiliate president/administrator, membership VP, and finance officers can update officers in the hub. Even if an officer is returning, please update their term end dates. The deadline is June 30.
How to update:
- Log in to Community Hub
- Go to MY AFFILIATIONS
- Click the button next to your affiliate name
- Choose Manage Roster
- Select STATE or BRANCH COMMITTEE
- Follow the on-screen instructions
Heads-up: If an officer’s term ends early, email connect@aauw.org
Strategic Plan Resources
Learn how members, branches, and states can align with our future vision.
New Funds – Defend Higher Education and Public Policy Fund – both now live on our donation page https://my.aauw.org/donation-product-detail
Finance Officers Must Respond — Don’t Lose Your IRS Tax-Exempt Status
All AAUW-affiliated entities must file an annual IRS return. If your gross receipts are $50K or less, AAUW can file the 990-N for the tax year ending 6/30/2025. Submit the group exemption from April 16 – October 15.
How: Watch our five-minute step-by-step 990N Request Video.
Important Note: If you do not qualify to file the 990-N, explore other options (e.g., 990, 990EZ, or 990PF) at irs.gov.
Webinar Recording: Building a Stronger AAUW – Tips for Branch Fundraising Success
If you missed it live, now’s your chance to catch the Building a Stronger AAUW: Tips for Branch Fundraising Success webinar. Hosted by the AAUW Advancement Committee, this informative session is packed with practical guidance to help branches strengthen their fundraising efforts. You can find this webinar and other past webinars on the AAUW YouTube page.
Members Not Receiving Messages from AAUW
Share this resubscribe link with members who are not receiving AAUW emails: https://secure.everyaction.com/p/8fvkDOF_gkmwgUN5RDy1tw2.
| | AAUW advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. | | | | |
