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Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region 42 nd Anniversary Conference E E m m b b r r a a c c e e t t h h e e F F u u t t u u r r e e “Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow’s reality.” - Malala Yousafzai May 4-6, 2018 Hilton Garden Inn Hartford North Windsor, CT Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Empowering Women & Girls to Live Their Dreams Soroptimist International is a global volunteer organization working to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. 1976 – 2018

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

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Page 1: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region

42nd Anniversary Conference

““EEmmbbrraaccee tthhee FFuuttuurree”” “Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow’s reality.”

- Malala Yousafzai

May 4-6, 2018

Hilton Garden Inn Hartford North

Windsor, CT

Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018

Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018

EEmmppoowweerriinngg WWoommeenn && GGiirrllss ttoo LLiivvee TThheeiirr DDrreeaammss Soroptimist International is a global volunteer organization working to improve the lives

of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment.

11997766 –– 22001188

Page 2: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 2

CALL TO CONFERENCE The 2018 Spring Conference of the Northeastern Region, Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. is hereby called to meet in Windsor, CT on May 4-6, 2018 for the purpose of transacting such business as may be on the agenda and may properly come before the Conference.

Table of Contents

Letter from Governor Ann p. 3

Greetings from Governor-elect Ruby p. 4

Message from Conference Chair Beth & Directions p. 5

SIA Northeastern Region Board & Chairs 2016-2018 p. 6

General Conference Information p. 7

Agenda p. 8-10

Speaker Bios p. 11

Club Responsibilities & Club President/Treasurer Checklist p. 12

“In Remembrance of Service” Memorial Tribute Form p. 13

Spirit of Soroptimist Award Nomination Form p. 14

Governor’s Award Form p. 15

Soroptimist Pledge & Standing Rules p. 16

Delegates – Frequently Asked Questions p. 17

Candidates for Region Offices p. 18-20

Proposed Region Budget p. 21-22

Registration Form p. 23

Page 3: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 3

“Every girl that receives an education is more likely to make education

a priority for her children. It’s a ripple effect of positive change in the

community and country.” ~Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Cares~ Dear Soroptimist Members, Friends, and Guests, Spring is such a wonderful time to recharge, reflect, and plan for the future! Come join us at our Northeastern Region’s annual Spring Conference. This is an excellent opportunity to learn and to inspire ways that we can further increase our collective impact, so that we may continue to encourage women and girls to “Embrace the future!” As our clubs carry on our commitment to improve the lives of women and girls, through the Dream It, Be It program and the Live Your Dream Awards, our Region continues to create “a ripple effect of positive change” for women facing the challenges of reaching their dreams and goals. Our Spring Conference is designed to inspire, educate, offer the opportunity to share ideas, and have fun. Saturday morning will begin with updated information on the four pillars: fundraising, program, public awareness, and membership. We will continue with a presentation from our Federation guest, Karen Johnson, titled: “We Believe in You.” During the Award Celebration Luncheon, keynote speaker, Patricia Phillips, PhD will share: “Why Hopes and Dreams are Important” Patricia’s inspirational message will help us to encourage women to live their dreams. We will share in this inspiration by celebrating the following awards: Dream It, Be It Club Recognition, Live Your Dream Award, Soroptimist Celebrating Success Awards, Membership Milestones, Governor’s Award, and the Spirit of Soroptimist. Saturday evening will follow with cocktail hour and the installation banquet. On Sunday, after breakfast, we will gather for a memorial tribute, followed by a presentation on the United Nations/Commission Status of Women Update. Our Region Board has worked diligently to create this outstanding Spring Conference for you. This is an exceptional opportunity to share our Soroptimist experiences and dreams. I leave you with the thought:

"...when you educate a girl, you empower a nation."

~ Queen Rania of Jordan~

Let us continue to help women and girls reach for their dreams. Sincerely,

Governor Ann Day

Page 4: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 4

Greetings from Governor-Elect Ruby I am so excited for our upcoming spring conference. I hope that you will consider joining us. There are members and visitors who have attended spring conferences in the past and know the value of having these times together as a region to bring ideas together and discuss our path forward as an organization. We have the opportunity to share our best practices for SIA dream programs and meet our region’s Live Your Dream award winner. Best of all, we get to interact with so many strong like-minded women who are just as busy as you are, and yet, we all make it happen. Why?! Because we know the value of being a Soroptimist. For those of you who have not attended a conference before, I would really like to see you this year. Let this be the year you experience the solidarity of Soroptimist NER first-hand. Then join us to celebrate the passing of the torch of the region board with dinner and music. We are Soroptimist NER and we know how to work hard, and play harder. So, be prepared to bring your enthusiasm and your dancing shoes. #SIANERspringconference2018 Smiles, Governor-Elect Ruby F. Mercado

Page 5: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 5

Greetings from Conference Chair Beth Hello Most Fabulous SIA Northeastern Region Soroptimists! I’m so excited to bring to you an amazing Spring Conference in my home state of Connecticut! Gathering and renewing our commitment to helping women, girls and our communities will be fulfilling and fun! I do want to see your lovely faces at Spring Conference! We need to come together to inspire each other and say, “You are an amazing woman & Soroptimist!” Although most of the Conference business will be conducted on Saturday, I invite you to make it a “weekend away” and stay Friday through Sunday. The hotel has given us a phenomenal rate of only $99 a night (plus taxes) – and, it has an indoor pool! But, book early because there are a limited number of rooms in our block and they are only available through April 2nd. Cheers! Conference Chair Beth Peterson P.S. Take a look at the hotel’s website by clicking Hilton Garden Inn’s website. There are a limited number of rooms reserved in our block, so RESERVE NOW!

By using the RESERVE NOW link, you will be taken to the special online reservation system for the hotel and the Soroptimist $99 rate will automatically be applied. Again, this rate is only valid through 4/2/18 and as long as rooms are available in the block. Don’t miss out on the fun!

CLICK HERE for Directions

Hilton Garden Inn Hartford North/Bradley Intl. Airport 555 Corporate Dr, Windsor CT 06095

Page 6: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 6

Soroptimist International Northeastern Region Board Members 2016-2018

Elected Positions

Governor: Ann Day, SI Haverhill/Merrimack Valley, MA Governor-elect: Ruby Mercado, SI Connecticut River Valley, CT Treasurer: Linda Decelles, SI Greater Hartford, CT Secretary: Deb Bradley, SI Haverhill/Merrimack Valley, MA

Immediate Past Governor: Dr. Bernice Szafarek, SI Willimantic, CT

Appointed Positions Fundraising Chair: Joan Merritt, SI Willimantic, CT Membership Chair: Dr. Susan Radway, SI CT Shoreline, CT Program Chair: Gladys Mercado, SI Greater Hartford, CT Public Awareness: Courtney Smigiel, SI Farmington Valley, CT

Parliamentarian: Kathie Lang, SI Meriden, CT

Conference Chair: Elizabeth Peterson, SI CT Shoreline, CT Web Design: Barbara Straub, SI Willimantic, CT

Clubs Presidents SI Connecticut River Valley, CT Ines Miranda Carreras SI Connecticut Shoreline, CT Elizabeth Peterson SI Farmington Valley, CT Ellen Wildman, Lydia Tedone SI Greater Bridgeport, CT Deirdre Green SI Greater Hartford, CT Leslie Wilper SI Greater Providence, RI Terry Moretti SI Greater Waterbury, CT Vera Rosa SI Haverhill/Merrimack Valley, MA Jude Holmes SI Meriden, CT Janice Conway

SI Willimantic, CT Irene Schein

Together, we have the Power to Change Another Woman’s Life

Page 7: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 7

General Conference Information

BUSINESS DATES: Saturday, May 5 & Sunday, May 6, 2018 LOCATION: Hilton Garden Inn Hartford North – Windsor, CT LODGING: Room rates are $99 plus 15% occupancy tax (2 Double beds or 1 King bed). Total per night is approximately $113.85 and includes a full breakfast for 2 occupants per room in the Garden Grill restaurant. Additional occupants that want breakfast will pay $11.95 each (plus tax and gratuity).

Reserve your room today by using this link: RESERVE a room at the Hilton Garden Inn NOTE: This special rate is only good while rooms last and until

April 2nd! Don’t wait – RESERVE NOW! REGISTRATION: $45 – members $0 – guests/non-members

DELEGATES: THREE (3) required per club at $45 each ($135 total) (*see Delegates - FAQ for more information)

DRESS CODE: Business/business casual attire for meeting (bring your bathing suit!)

MEALS: $30 Saturday Awards Luncheon Buffet $45 Saturday Installation Banquet Buffet (NOTE: Breakfast is included for 2 occupants with a hotel stay)

SUMMARY: Fri. 5/4 – Pre-Conference Board Meeting, Dinner (pay on your own) Sat. 5/5 – Registration, Conference Business

Guest – SIA Board Director Karen Johnson

Awards Luncheon – Keynote Speaker Patricia Phillips, PhD Installation Banquet & Dancing Sun. 5/6 – In Memory of, United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, Post-Conference Board Meeting

RECOGNITION: First Time Attendees, “In Remembrance of Service” Memorial Tribute, Member Milestones, Governor’s Award (to a region club!), Spirit of Soroptimist Award, Laurel Society and Club Giving

DEADLINES: Payment & registration form received no later than 4/13/18

(if received after this date, a $20 late fee per club will apply!)

MAIL or E-MAIL MEMORIAL TRIBUTE, SPIRIT OF SOROPTIMIST, and GOVERNOR’S AWARD FORMS TO GOVERNOR ANN (address on forms)

CONFERENCE QUESTIONS??? Email Beth [email protected]

Phone (860) 389-2532

Page 8: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 8

Agenda

Friday, May 4, 2018

4:00 - 6:00 PM Pre-Conference Board Meeting & Healthy Region Discussion 6:00 - Dinner & Merriment at a local restaurant (optional – pay on your own; RSVP on registration form – Meet in hotel lobby at 6 PM)

Saturday, May 5, 2018

Breakfast on your own (included with hotel stay) 7:30 - 8:30 AM Registration

8:30 - 10:00 AM Morning Session Pledge of Allegiance

Welcome and Introductions

Appointment of Tellers

Credentials Report

Reading of Standing Rules Adoption of the Official Program

Official Correspondence/Proclamations

Recognition of First Time Attendees

Financial Update YTD 2018-2020 Biennium & Budget Vote

Fundraising Update

Program Update (Live Your Dream and Dream It, Be It Programs)

Public Awareness Update

Membership Update

Page 9: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 9

10:00 - 10:15 AM Break Mini-Mall Open! 10:15 - 11:00 AM “We Believe in You.” SIA Federation Guest, Karen Johnson 11:00 – 12:00 PM “Planning the Future: Building Together” Ruby Mercado and Beth Peterson

12:15 – 2:15 PM Awards Celebration Luncheon

Buffet Lunch

Keynote Speaker – Patricia Phillips, PhD “Why Hopes and Dreams are Important”

Dream It, Be It Club Recognition

Live Your Dream Award Region Recipient

Soroptimist Celebrating Success! Awards

Membership Milestones (member awards)

Governor’s Award

Spirit of Soroptimist Award 2:15 – 2:30 PM Break Mini-Mall Open! 2:30 - 3:00 PM Workshop I: Membership Retention and Recruitment 3:00 - 3:30 PM Workshop II: Building Partnerships 3:30 - 4:45 PM Sharing Our Success (6-7 minutes per club, please!)

Each club to share one exceptional activity from this past year

4:45 – 5:00 PM Closing for the Day (if leaving, please fill out & return evaluation)

Basket Drawing 4:45 – 6:00 PM Free Time 6:00 – 7:00 PM Cocktail Hour (Cash bar) 7:00 – 10:00 PM Installation Banquet 10:00 - Hospitality Suite Open

Page 10: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 10

Sunday, May 6, 2018

Breakfast on your own (included with hotel stay)

9:00 – 9:45 AM “In Remembrance of Service” Tribute

9:45 – 10:30 AM SI in the United Nations/Commission on the Status of Women SIA Federation Guest – Karen Johnson 10:30 – 11:00 AM Closing

Final Thoughts Evaluation

Soroptimist Pledge

11:30 - 1:00 PM Post-Conference Board Meeting & Lunch

Page 11: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 11

Speaker Bios Federation Guest – Karen Johnson, SIA Board of Directors

Karen Cromer Johnson of Eagan, Minn., is serving in her second year on the Board of Directors for Soroptimist International of the Americas. As a board member, Johnson participates in strategic planning and program development to increase the organization’s collective impact on women and girls around the world. Johnson is a member of Soroptimist International of Twin Cities, in Minneapolis, MN, North Central Region. A member since 1987, Johnson has held many leadership positions including Region Governor; District Director; and club President and Treasurer. She is a second generation Soroptimist, her mother Joan Cromer is a past SIA and SI President. Her daughter Joanne Johnson is the third generation Soroptimist and is President of the SI Twin Cities club. Karen has been married for 26 years to her husband Jerry Johnson. They have 2 adult children, Joanne and Lyle who is a junior at the University of Minnesota. Johnson is currently a substitute teacher and Mary Kay beauty consultant. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of St. Thomas, a Master of Science degree from North Carolina State University, and a bachelor’s degree in Food Science from the University of Nebraska. She previously worked for Hormel Foods in Sales, Marketing, and Product Development. In addition to her Soroptimist activities, Johnson volunteers with the Spirit of Life Presbyterian Church teaching Sunday School, an after-school program, singing in the choir and playing alto Sax in the Jazz Band as well as being active on several committees. She is a life member of Girl Scouts and was a leader for 12 years and trainer of Girl Scout leaders. She enjoys reading, gardening, and walking.

Keynote Speaker – Patricia Phillips, PhD

Patricia Phillips, Ph.D. has been a passionate educator for all of her career which spans close to 50 years. She was lucky enough to do as they say “Find out what it is you love to do and make this your living. If you are lucky you will have so much fun it won’t seem like work”. Pat has certifications for regular education teaching K-6, Special Education Pre K-12 and administration. She has been fortunate enough to work in all of these areas and service children and families. As an encore from retiring from public education in 2008 she now is employed at Mitchell College as a full time assistant professor in Early Childhood Education and loves every minute training the caregivers for young children to be the “best they can be” in educating our most precious young ones and laying their educational foundation. Along this journey she has served in many leadership roles as assistant principal for K-12, Special Education district coordinator and Director for preschool early integrated early childhood program. She is looking forward to sharing with young women what wisdom and experiences she has gathered along this journey in hopes to keep them inspired and hopeful for their future dreams.

Page 12: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 12

Hostess Clubs Farmington Goodie bags, city welcome/proclamation Registration Willimantic and Meriden Print name badges, open registration table Credentials Providence & Waterbury Verify credentials, file reports with Secretary Fundraiser Joan Merritt Raise $1,000 for Conference expenses & project Awards Luncheon Hartford & CT Shoreline Program, provide decorations, host/emcee Saturday Banquet Haverhill & CRV Plan entertainment (music and dancing) Program Governor Ann, Governor-elect Ruby, and Conference Chair Beth First Time Attendee Membership Chair, Sue Prepares recognition for 1st time attendees Memorial Tribute Plans tribute, coordinates with Governor Ann Conference Chair Beth Peterson Manages conference logistics Protocol Bridgeport Advises Governor on Soroptimist Protocol

*** All clubs should bring a basket for the Basket Raffle!! ***

CLUB PRESIDENT/TREASURER CHECKLIST PRIOR TO CONFERENCE o By March 6th - Distribute the “Call to Conference” via email or mail to your

members. Members can download from Region website’s Home page at www.soroptimistner.org

o By April 2nd – Make room reservations at the hotel…RESERVE NOW!

o Before April 13th - REGISTER & PAY for 3 delegates, attendees, and meals; submit all forms to appropriate people

REGISTER USING the FORM PROVIDED – one per club, please! Send check(s) with Registration Form to NER Treasurer: Linda Decelles 16 Garland Rd. West Hartford CT 06107

*** Checks payable to “SIA Northeastern Region” ***

Want to pay with a credit card or have questions about registration??? Call Linda at (860) 729-5911 or

e-mail her at [email protected]

Club or individual mini-mall tables are available for $15 each! Or, share a table with another club!

Bring your club sales items and displays of activities for your table for “Sharing Our Success”!!

Page 13: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 13

“In Remembrance of Service”

Memorial Tribute Form

A memorial tribute will be held at conference in memory of members who have passed away since April 2017. Please include a brief description of the deceased member's club, her personal accomplishments and some photos and e-mail these items to Governor Ann Day at [email protected] Or, send by mail to her at 51 Hazel Street, Haverhill, MA 01832 no later than April 13, 2018. *The club President or a club member is encouraged to talk about her at the service. Name of Deceased Member: _____________________________________ Number of Years as a Member: _____ Charter Member: ____ Yes ____ No Description of Accomplishments/Comments:

Submitted by: Soroptimist International of ______________________ Name: _____________________________Phone: _______ ______ Address: ____ ____________________________________________

Page 14: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 14

2017-2018 SPIRIT OF SOROPTIMIST AWARD

Name of Club Awardee: ________________________________________________

Club: _____________________________________________________________

Our winner will be attending the Region Conference: Yes ____ No ____

This award honors a Soroptimist who exemplifies the “spirit” of Soroptimist. It’s not a

popularity contest. This member may not be the one who is most visible, but may have served quietly over the years; she may be the one who is always there willing to help, educate, support, and listen. She may be the one who always volunteers.

We will acknowledge each club’s recipient at the conference. It is our hope to have 10 terrific women to recognize. One of these finalists will be selected as NER’s Spirit of Soroptimist Award recipient. Deadline for club entries is April 13, 2018.

Please write a paragraph about this woman. Include information such as why your club chose her, what about her makes you think of the spirit of Soroptimist, her accomplishments, how long she has been a Soroptimist, her passion, and anything else you feel is relevant. _____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Form due by April 13th to:

Governor Ann Day 51 Hazel Street, Haverhill, MA 01832

[email protected]

Page 15: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 15

GOVERNOR’S AWARD

Send Governor Ann a summary of events/activities that your club has completed to date this club year, and she will select a club that has worked in all 4 pillar areas (fundraising, membership, program, public awareness) and fully embraced the Soroptimist mission at the local, region, and federation levels.

Club/President: SI of ____________________________________________

Event/Activity Date(s)

Area(s) – Fundraising,

Membership, Program,

Public Awareness

Brief Description &

Objectives/Outcomes

E-mail completed summary to Governor Ann at [email protected]

Deadline is April 13, 2018 – this is a hard deadline!

TOOT YOUR HORN! No one else will and your club may be

selected to get the award!

Page 16: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 16

Soroptimist Pledge

I pledge allegiance to Soroptimism and to the ideals for which it stands:

The Sincerity of Friendship The Joy of Achievement The Dignity of Service The Integrity of Profession The Love of Country

I will put forth my greatest effort to promote, uphold and defend these ideals, for a larger fellowship in home, in society,

in business - for Country and for God.

Conference Standing Rules

1. The voting body of the Conference shall be the Northeastern Region Board, the club

Presidents, the duly accredited Delegates or their alternates. 2. The Official Program and the Agenda shall be the order of the day. 3. All Delegates are expected to be present at the beginning of each session and remain in

the room for all business sessions of the conference. 4. On a discussion a member shall rise, be recognized, address the Chair, and state her

name and club clearly. 5. A voting Delegate shall take precedence over an attending member in being recognized. 6. The first Delegate to rise shall be recognized, providing she has not already spoken on

the question. 7. A voting Delegate may speak twice only on the same question for two minutes at a time. 8. A Soroptimist who is not a voting Delegate may speak once only on a question, for not

more than two minutes. 9. All substantive motions shall be submitted in writing to the Chair.

10. A voting Delegate may not leave the Conference session when there is a motion on the

floor unless given permission by the Chair.

Page 17: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 17

DELEGATES ~ Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Delegate? At Soroptimist conferences and conventions, a Delegate is a voting representative on behalf of her club. All clubs in good standing may nominate and/or elect any regular member of their club to serve as a Delegate. A Delegate must be a regular member who is in good standing (i.e., has paid her full annual dues in the current club year, July – June). A Delegate’s responsibility is to report valuable Soroptimist region and Federation information to the local club members. A Delegate should be prepared to attend the entire conference. Questions and requests for additional information are always welcome.

What does the Delegate do? The voting body shall be the members of the region board and the accredited Delegates of each attending club in good standing. Delegates must check in and be seated prior to opening of the business session. The Delegates present will be reported at the opening of conference session during a Credentials Report. See Standing Rules for more instruction of voting and discussion during conference session.

Is the club required to have a Delegate? It is in the best interest for the club to have a voice at conferences and conventions. At the Region Conference, the clubs are asked to send THREE (3) club Delegates. The club is required to pay for the registration fee of all three Delegates out of their club finances even if all do not attend.

General Attendees Soroptimist members and guests are encouraged to attend the conference for the rich learning and networking opportunities. All attendees pay the regular fees as indicated on the registration form, however they are not allowed to vote during session – only Delegates are allowed to cast a vote.

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and

the passion to reach for the stars --- to change the world.” ~ Harriet Tubman ~

Page 18: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc ... · Ann Day, Governor 2016-2018 Ruby Mercado, Governor-elect 2016-2018 Elizabeth Peterson, Conference Chair 2017-2018 Emmppoowweerriinngg

Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 18

Beth Peterson ~ Governor-elect

Club SI Connecticut Shoreline Club

Soroptimist Experience & Positions Held Non-Soroptimist Volunteer Experience

Soroptimist

Member (2016)

Northeast Region Conference Chair (2017-2018)

President of the Connecticut Shoreline Club (2017-2018) o Program planning (schedule for the year) o Grant writing o Winter silent auction fundraiser co-chair o Workshop presenter for Dream It Be It and career mentoring

Other

Society of Women Engineers (members since 1983) o President, Secretary, Section Representative to Region - New England Shoreline Section o Nominating Chair, Treasurer & Secretary -Northeast Region o Congressional Delegate -Government Relations & Public Policy

Committee

Board of Directors o Connecticut Lyric Opera (2006-2018) o Ledyard Educational Advancement Foundation (2012-2017) o Village of Gales Ferry (2007-2018)

In the past two decades Beth has actively participated in youth sports & music programs, and STEM outreach with robotics clubs, Girl Scouts, & Boy Scouts.

Current Occupation

Beth holds the role of Senior Nuclear Engineer at Dominion’s Millstone Power Station and is a Physics Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven.

Education

B.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering - UConn MBA – UNH Masters in Energy Regulation & Law – Vermont Law School (enrolled)

Personal Statement

Beth would like to join the Northeast Region’s leadership slate as the incoming Governor-Elect. She is prepared and accessible to assist our Governor to foster and grow our membership while pursuing our mission to support women and girls locally, regionally and internationally.

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Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 19

Barbara Simmons ~ Treasurer

Club Connecticut River Valley

Soroptimist Experience & Positions Held Non-Soroptimist Volunteer Experience

Soroptimist – Joined Soroptimist in 2001 Club Treasurer since 07/02 Other - Middletown Exchange Club Board of Directors Chairman “Children’s Home” Committee Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Central Business Bureau

Current Occupation

Retired after: 22 years in banking / branch manager - Home Bank, Shawmut Home Bank, CNB, Central Bank, Centerbank 15 years admin asst for VP Export Sales - Rossi American Hardwoods

Education

Maloney High School – Meriden, CT CT School of Finance and Management American Institute of Banking

Personal Statement

I have enjoyed the sisterhood of Soroptimist as well as the work we have done to help women and girls. I have enjoyed being club treasurer all these years and now feel ready in my life to accept more responsibility. I know and respect the other members of the Board and wish to be one of them.

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Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 20

????? ~ Secretary

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Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Northeastern Region’s Call to Spring Conference 2018 pg. 21