By Brian Wilson
On March 31, The Women’s Center hosted the Celebrating Women Luncheon, where business women, women’s organizations and students gathered to support Women’s History Month and student programs that support both women and men.
Rita Press, a three-time attendee of the event and member of local women’s group Women into Lifetime Learning said, “The speakers are very inspirational in the ways they’ve come through diversity. We applaud women for being successful because it helps children of future generations.”
The guest speaker for the luncheon was Judge Penny Brown Reynolds, who is an Emmy-nominated television personality who addresses conflicts faced by Americans. She shared her story of her childhood and how she quickly grew up facing prejudice as a little girl.
“Instead of blaming others for problems, we should lift each other up,” said Reynolds, a long-time women’s activist. “Nobody can determine your destiny but you.”
While straightforward in her message, Reynolds drew laughter and applause from the audience of 250 guests filling Café 101. Women’s Center Advisory Board Member Gerald Frisby said, “The event has always been very successful in the past, usually selling out.” Kristin Wynn Moore of Wynn Financial Services reserved two tables and invited clients to help inform and educate women.
Looking past limits, Reynolds posed the question: Why does a woman have to be nurturing rather than competitive? But in the cause for women, it’s all about freedom. Reynolds advised women to know who they are and accept it.
Women’s Center Advisory Board Member Donna Sue Sanders welcomed the guests and thanked Audrey Galm for her efforts in coordinating the event.
Thanking the many women who paved the way for today’s women, Sanders said “integrity, passion, strong faith and the ability to make a difference for future generations were necessary” and encouraged women to follow their dreams regardless of the obstacles.
Isalene Montgomery, director of Women’s Center, acknowledged aspiring students who have recently graduated through the various programs sponsored by the Women’s Center and their accomplishments.
Programs included New Directions, Child Care Access Means Parents in School, Trio and Fresh Start. If you are a single parent, displaced homemaker, single pregnant woman or a nontraditional student, one of these programs at the Women’s Center may be helpful to provide resources you may need to provide balance your school and family life.