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President's Message
AAUW Florida… Elevating Our Impact!
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Welcome to Majestic May! Spring is here and the 2025 AAUW Florida Annual Meeting is upon us. The annual meeting with elections and a town hall, is scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m. EDT. We are excited to have our very own CEO, Gloria Blackwell to speak at our town hall. We need All AAUW Florida members to register. If you have not registered for this important meeting, there is still time to Register. We need at least 40 percent of branches and five percent of members to meet our quorum, so your presence is crucial. Let’s continue to make an impact and have our voices heard!
On behalf of the AAUW Florida Board of Directors, congratulations to Dr. Gloria Hilton, Tampa Branch and Dr. Mary Gatta, St. Augustine Branch on their appointment by the AAUW Florida Board of Directors to serve as the two board elected members of the 2025-2026 AAUW Florida Nominating Committee. Per our by-laws, the nominating committee is comprised of 5 members 2 elected by the board and 3 elected by the voting body at the annual meeting. Therefore, we will need 3 nominations from the floor to fill the remaining 3 positions on the nominating committee. For additional information on serving, please reference the nominating committee details below in the Annual Meeting/Voting Guide. Will you answer the call?
Lastly, In April we concluded our third and final AAUW Florida Regional Leadership
Conference for branches in the Southwest hosted by the Venice Branch. We had and
enlightening and successful event focusing on elevating our community impact through
leadership, education, programming and advocacy. If you were unable to attend one of the
three conferences, please read on for the link to the conference presentations.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to all the conference participants,
organizers, and volunteers and a special recognition to our host branch and presenters:
- Bea Holt, Past Florida President
- Diana Sells, Director for Programs, AAUW-FL
- Ellen Roche, Director for Finance, AAUW-FL
- Majorie Fontalvo, Director for Membership, AAUW-FL
- Patricia DeWit, Co-Director for Public Policy, AAUW-FL
- Bev Weltzien and Jan Harris, Co-Presidents, Venice Branch, Southwest Host
Thank you all for a job well done! Happy Mother's Day!
"Together we are stronger! Together we can make a difference!"
Yours in solidarity,
K. Lee-Smith, Ph.D.
AAUW Florida President
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The AAUW Florida Annual Meeting 2025 is upon us. We look forward to seeing you via ZOOM for this members-only meeting on May 15, 2025 at 6pm. To receive the link to the meeting, register today by either scanning the QR code or clicking on the image below.
Additional Resources: Get Info or https://aauw-fl.aauw.net/
| | 2024-2025 Annual Meeting and Voting Guide | | |
Annual Meeting Details
Join us for our annual meeting on Thursday, May 15, from 6 pm to 7:30 pm via Zoom! This is your chance to elect officers, hear reports from state leaders, and participate in other official business.
We need at least 40 percent of branches and five percent of members to meet our quorum, so your presence is crucial. You’ll get an inside look at the many projects and activities driving our mission of equity for women and girls.
We’ll kick off with the establishment of a quorum, followed by insightful reports from our current Board of Directors. The highlight of the event will be the election of four new State Board of Director Officers for the 2025-2027 term.
Election of Officers
We’ll be electing the President-Elect, Director for Program, Director for Finance, and Director for Public Policy, who will take office on July 1. These positions are elected in odd-numbered years and serve a two-year term. Co-directors can serve in a position but will have only one vote on the board.
Learn more about the candidates put forward by this year’s nominating committee in this issue. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor, where candidates can briefly state their qualifications. If there’s only one candidate or co-candidate for a position, the election may be by acclamation. Contested offices will be decided by electronic ballot as per our One Member One Vote policy.
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Annual Reports
We’ll hear annual reports from our current elected officers, as well as updates from the AAUW Florida Supporting Foundation, Tech Trek, and the AAUW FL Bylaws and Resolutions Committee. There are no bylaw amendments to be voted on this year.
New Nominating Committee
Thank you to representatives from the Lake Wales Branch, Northern Palm Beach, Bradenton, New Smyrna Beach, and Naples for your service during the 2024-2025 membership year. Your contributions have been invaluable. Please note: branches cannot be represented on the committee for two consecutive years.
As such, we need 3 nominations from the floor elected by the membership to fill positions on the nominating committee for the 2025-2026 membership year. Eligibility for service on the nominating committee requires nominees to have been AAUW Florida members for at least three years, and branches cannot be represented on the committee for two consecutive years.
Town Hall
After the official business, we’ll have a Town Hall with Gloria Blackwell, AAUW CEO who will provide updates and answer your questions. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage and learn more about our ongoing initiatives!
Your Engagement
Your participation is vital. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with fellow members, contribute to meaningful discussions, and help steer our organization towards a brighter future!
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2025-2027 AAUW Florida Nominees
The Nomination Committee is thrilled to present the Slate of Nominees for the 2025-2027 AAUW FL State offices. This slate includes dedicated individuals who have consented to their nomination to fill vacancies on the AAUW Florida Board of Directors. Get to know the candidates who will be shaping our future!
The Nominating Committee proudly puts forth the following candidates for open Board positions, with nominations also welcome from the floor at the annual meeting:
- President Elect – Rose J. Llanos (Palm Beach Branch)
- Director for Program – Elinore Bozzone (Flagler Branch)
- Director for Finance – Jennifer Nanek (Lake Wales Branch)
- Director for Public Policy – Patricia A. DeWitt (Jacksonville Branch)
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Meet the Candidates!
The Nominating Committee will be putting forth the following candidates for open Board positions. Nominations may also be made from the floor at the annual meeting.
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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.
| | Mandatory Bylaws Update Due | | |
The deadline is upon us to have all branch bylaws updated with the Mandatory first seven articles required by National. Branches have been given two years to accomplish this update. Most have sent their revised bylaws to me but if you are in doubt, send them ASAP to AAUWflFarace@gmail.com If you need the seven articles, email me and I will resend.
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Public Policy Matters
AAUW Florida signed onto a community letter to Congressional Representatives Robert Aderholt, Rosa DeLauro, Shelley Capito and Tammy Baldwin (Chairs and Ranking Members of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies in the US House of Representatives. The community letter encouraged the leaders to continue to support for increased federal investments for core federal child care and early learning programs and asked to build upon past support to ensure more children and families receive access to the high-quality services they need via Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.
The letter calls for support for Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), Head Start, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C and Part B, Section 619, Preschool Development Grants Birth through Five and Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program. These programs all help to ensure the economic security of women and their families.
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AAUW National Updates
Dues Change - Invest In Our Future
FY26 Membership Dues Collection Process
- The FY26 National Dues Year opens 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.
AAUW National Elections 2025 April 14 – May 13
Members will receive electronic ballot reminders with their unique voting credentials from our third-party voting service vote@simplyvoting.com. Members without email addresses were mailed paper ballots. Eligible voters are those who were members as of March 14, 2025. Voting closes on May 13, 5pm ET. For voting help, email connect@aauw.org with name and email.
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.
Annual Branch Survey Now Open: Submit by June 30
Big thanks to branches that have already submitted — your input drives AAUW’s progress and keeps us aligned with strategic goals. Deadline: June 30
NCCWSL/NASPA Updates
May 28-30, 2025, at the University of Maryland, College Park. Registration is open! Visit NASPA’s website to register. Visit AAUW’s website for the FAQ
AAUW National Elections 2025 Opens: April 14 | 12:00 p.m. ET
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Voting opens on April 14 noon, ET. Members will receive an electronic ballot with their unique voting credentials from vote@simplyvoting.com, our third-party voting service. Add this email address to your safe sender list to ensure your ballot reaches you. Members without an email address on file will receive a paper ballot. Eligible voters are those who were members as of March 14, 2025. Voting closes on May 13, 5pm ET.
New Funds – Defend Higher Education and Public Policy Fund – both now live on our donation page https://my.aauw.org/donation-product-detail
4513 - Defend Higher Education
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.
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.
AAUW Backs Civil Rights Coalition Pact
AAUW joined The Pact: A Civil Rights Coalition Unity Commitment, a civil rights coalition response to escalating threats from the Trump administration. With over 170 public events planned to mark the administration’s 100th day next week, we urge branches to review our new demonstration guidance. AAUW also launched two new funds — Public Policy and Defend Higher Education. We encourage you to watch the training on meeting with lawmakers and check out our policy updates.
New Webinar Series – Defending Equity: Strengthening Our Collective Impact Series. To register, visit the event calendar: EventCalendarDirectory - AAUW (you can also register using the links below in the Public Policy article).
Funding Futures: Understanding Changes to Sex and Gender-Based Scholarship Programs: April 15 Webinar Recording: Navigating legal changes to sex-based scholarships can be complex. Webinar recorded link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1mWj0nQgQA
Strategic Plan: Leadership Briefing | Tuesday, May 6 at 7 p.m. ET
Get a first look at our strategic priorities and how your leadership plays a key role. Register here.
Strategic Plan Launch | Tuesday, May 13 at 7 p.m. ET
Learn how members, branches, and states can align with our future vision.
Register here.
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. | | | | |
