AAUW Holiday Luncheon

We held our annual holiday luncheon on December 11 at the Springdale Country Club. Thanks to all who joined us! Photos courtesy of member Joyce Kennedy.

Paycheck Fairness Act Fails in Senate

On Wednesday, November 17, cloture was defeated in the Senate for the Paycheck Fairness Act (S. 182, PFA). Had it passed, PFA would have strengthed the Equal Pay Act of 1963 that prohibits wage disparity based on sex. PFA focuses on increasing employer accountability, providing educational tools for women to negotiate for equal pay, and enhancing federal outreach and enforcement efforts ensuring pay equity.

Why do we need PFA? Wage disparity is alive and well. According to the 2007 "Behind the Pay Gap" study, women make only 77 cents to every dollar a man makes. Arkansas ranks 35th with a 71% wage gap. This wage gap starts early--women one year out of college who are working full time make 80% what their male colleagues earn.

Opponents of PFA argued that it would increase the burden of proof on the employer, requiring them to establish a legitimate "business reason" for unequal pay. Business bureaus claimed this would put undue pressure on small businesses struggling to make it in today's economy.

AAUW countered the grumbles of business bureaus by reminding them that small business are already protected from unfair litigation. PFA would keep intact the Equal Pay Act's exemption of businesses who gross less than $500,000 per year, and would only overturn Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act that exempts employers with fewer than 15 employees. "Businesses with fewer than 15 employees can still make huge profits," stated AAUW Public Policy Fellow Emily Pfefer. "Whether women are employed at a local mom and pop for a Fortune 500 company, there's no excuse for paying women less than men for the same work." (see full quote HERE)

AAUW also noted PFA would benefit both women and men since many women are the primary bread winners for their families. Additionally, all employees would be protected from employer retaliation if they were to inquire about wage practices.

Despite the bill's success in the House over a year ago, the Senate failed to bring PFA to cloture. All Democrats except for Nebraska's Nelson supported the bill, but not a single Republican cast a vote for the bill. See vote roll call HERE.

"This is a missed opportunity to make history and jump start real economic change for American workers and their families," said AAUW Executive Director Linda D. Hallman. "While the Senate's action is difficult to comprehend given the stark reality that most families depend on the paychecks of women, our effort to close the pay gap is far from over." (see AAUW's official response HERE)

Learn more about AAUW's continued fight for pay equity HERE.

AAUW Welcomes Ginger Beebe

On November 9, 2010 First Lady of Arkansas Ginger Beebe spoke to AAUW members and guests about women and girls in Arkansas. She highlighted the Girls of Promise program sponsored by the Women's Foundation of Arkansas. This program is much needed in the state because it encourages 8th grade girls to pursue careers in science, technology, and mathematics. Ginger Beebe also spoke about Flat Stanley and the child literacy programs she supports as well as the critical need to fight against childhood obesity to improve the lives of all of Arkansas families.

In honor of her service as First Lady of Arkansas, member Lindsley Smith represented the city of Fayetteville in naming November 9 "Ginger Beebe Day."

Several local news stations covered the event. Check out KFSM Channel 5's coverage HERE.

Special thanks to member Lea Ann Van Winkle-Gisler of Southern Hospitality Management for providing refreshments.

Photos courtesy of Stephen Ironside, http://www.ironsidephotography.com/.

Ginger Beebe to Speak at AAUW 11/9

AAUW is excited to welcome Ginger Beebe, First Lady of Arkansas, to speak at our November 9th program. Ginger Beebe will speak on issues relating to women and children in Arkansas, including the Girls of Promise program that encourages 8th grade girls to pursue careers in science, technology, and math fields as well as the Women's Foundation of Arkansas.

The event will be held in the Fayetteville Public Library Walker Community Room. Networking will begin at 5:30 and the program will begin at 6:00. Refreshments will be served. This event, like all AAUW programs, is free and open to the public. You may RSVP on Facebook. Help us spread the word and invite your friends and colleagues to this special event!

Members Honored at UA Employee Awards Banquet

At the 2010 University of Arkansas Employee Awards Banquet, employees were honored for their years of exceptional service and their contributions to the community. This year, three AAUW members were recognized. Chapter president Felisha Perrodin (left) was recognized for 15 years of service. Felisha currently works as the Assistant Director for Resident Education with University Housing. Her husband and AAUW member Kent Perrodin was recognized for 15 years of service. Kent is the Coordinator for Marketing with University Housing. Also honored at the banquet was co-VP membership Emily Ironside. She was the co-recipient for the Individual Diversity Award. Emily, who serves as a Foreign Student Advisor and is pursuing a MA in Communications, was recognized for her work with international students as well as her community advocacy efforts for immigrant rights and the passage of the DREAM Act. Congratulations to Felisha, Kent, and Emily for their dedication to education and diversity.

Young Leads Student Team in Landmark Win before Board of Immigration Appeals

AAUW member Elizabeth Young, the University of Arkansas School of Law's Immigration Clinic director, prevailed with her students in a recent case before the Board of Immigration Appeals for the Matter of Pedroza.

Young and her students were able to clarify a vague area of immigration law that prohibits the cancellation of removal proceedings (deportation) for individuals who have committed crimes of moral terpitude. They proved that Mr. Pedroza was, in fact, eligible for cancellation based on an exception to the moral terpitude regulations, and afforded him the favorable discretion of the court.

"It was very rewarding to get tangible recognition for the work we're doing on behalf of our clients," Young remarked. "It's even more rewarding that our students are learning from these cases, and that we were able to help keep a father and child together.

For a full decription of the case and the accomplishments of Elizabeth Young's student team, click HERE.

Congratulations, Elizabeth!

*Post summarized from Arkansas Newswire article published 9/16/2010

AAUW Welcomes 11 New Members

The annual Membership Gathering for new and prospective members was a hit! Members mingled with guests over wine, cheese, and Sue Graham's famous Italian cake.

When program VP Heather Schneller was asked why she is a part of AAUW, she said, "I'm a member because women still earn less than men, and I won't stop the fight until we get equal pay." Membership co-VP Shawna Thorup added, "AAUW keeps me surrounded by strong, intelligent, and fabulous women!" "And I was a former recipient of the Single Parent Scholarship Fund," said fundraising co-chair Julie McQuade, "so being in AAUW is a way to give back to an organization that gave to me."

The many reasons why people join AAUW are as diverse as our members. From community activists to educators, real estate agents to researchers, attorneys to librarians, and students to grandmothers, members of our Fayetteville chapter create a dynamic environment for people of all backgrounds to support one another in the fight for equality.

We welcomed 11 new members at the gathering: Erica Estes-Beard, Denise Garner, Rena Goodwin-Lee, Florence Johnson, Jennifer Miles, Ember Phillips, Danielle Pribbernow, Michelle Pribbernow, Karon Reese, Teresa Scott, and Christine Sheppard. Earlier this summer, we welcomed Joanna Taylor and Tamika Wordlow.

The Fayetteville chapter of AAUW welcomes all of our new members and looks forward to the unique ideas, experiences, and passions they will bring to our organization.

Interested in joining? It's easy! Simply download an application from our website.

*AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

Member Julie McQuade Highlighted by Ozarks Unbound

Recently honored as Arkansas' 2010 Volunteer of the Year, member Julie McQuade was highlighted for her service by the local blog Ozarks Unbound. In the "Five Questions" section, Unbound founder Christopher Spencer said of Julie, "She’s tireless in her attendance and promotion of city events. In her role as the city’s community outreach coordinator, she’s on the front lines between the public and city government, purposely blurring the lines between the two." As part of her role with the city, Julie is heavily involved in the city's Fayetteville Forward Economic Accountability Council (FFEAC). "I believe Fayetteville Forward has already been a success by simply allowing the public to get involved in making things happen that they are passionate about," said Julie. She has been instrumental in organizing and facilitating communication between the various FFEAC Action Groups. Read more about Julie and her role as Community Outreach Coordinator on the Ozarks Unbound site. Congratulations, Julie. You are truly deserving of this recognition. (Pictured Left to Right: Julie McQuade, Fayetteville Mayor Lioneld Jordan, District 92 Representative and AAUW member Lindsley Smith)

Celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment with AAUW

"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex."

Today, August 18, marks the 90th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, a landmark amendment granting women the right to vote. There are several ways you can celebrate the passage of the 19th amendment--here are just a few suggestions:

1) Attend the ceremony at the Arkansas state capitol's Old Supreme Court room at 12:15 on Thursday, August 26. On this date in 1920, the amendment was officially certified.

2) Spread the word about our local AAUW chapter online. Suggest your Facebook friends "like" our page and encourage them to attend a meeting.

3) Invite a friend or two to the upcoming AAUW Membership Gathering for new and prospective members on August 31, 5:30 at Homewood Suites.

4) Sign up to volunteer for our annual fundraiser, the NWA Gridiron. Contact Julie at jewlzmcq@gmail.com or Molly at mlongstr@uark.edu

5) Join AAUW in the 21 Days of Action Campaign to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act. Read more about the campaign here.

These are just a few easy ways to carry on the tradition of our suffragist sisters. Thank you for taking action on this special day.

Member Shawna Thorup Profiled in Democrat Gazette

The Arkansas Democrat Gazette profiled our very own Shawna Lenn Saavedra Thorup in Sunday's NWA Profile Section. Described as "determined," "articulate," and "tenacious," Shawna was commended for her ability to keep her values central to both her professional and family life. "I believe that your personal value system has got to align with your profession's and your organizations'," said Shawna about her current role as Fayetteville Public Library's executive director. Shawna was also noted for her commitment to AAUW. Member Emily Ironside said of Shawna, "her most enriching characteristic is her dedication to breaking barriers for women and girls." Shawna has been an active member of AAUW for many years and currently serves as our chapter's co-vice president of membership. For a link to the full article, click HERE. Congratulations, Shawna. Our chapter is proud of all that you continue to accomplish.

Three Women to Serve on Supreme Court

The confirmation of Elena Kagan will put, for the first time in US history, three women serving concurrently on the US Supreme Court. AAUW Executive Director Linda D. Hallman stated upon her nomination, "The President has selected a woman who has been a trailblazer throughout her distinguished legal career, holding such positions as the first woman dean of Harvard Law School and first woman solicitor general of the United States. AAUW is pleased to note that, if confirmed, the Supreme Court will have three women justices serving concurrently for the first time in history-breaking through yet another barrier for women and girls." AAUW congratulates the soon-to-be confirmed Kagan and looks forward to the breaking of many more barriers to come.

Catfish, Green Tomato Relish, and Equity this August

AAUW of Fayetteville will host two meetings this August. August 10 will be our "regular" business meeting, but we are spicing things up a bit and meeting at the Catfish Hole at 5:30 for dinner. Then, on August 31 at 5:30 at Homewood Suites, we are hosting a special gathering for all new and prospective members who want to learn more about our mission and chapter.

In September we will resume our normal semester schedule and will meet every second Tuesday of the month at 5:30 in the Fayetteville Public Library Walker Community Room.

Hope you will join us for these upcoming events!

Find us on Facebook and LinkedIn

AAUW Welcomes Guests at Summer Dinner

The Fayetteville Chapter of AAUW hosted a fun and casual summer dinner at Noodles this past Tuesday. We were thrilled to meet and greet our 10 new guests, all of whom are amazing women doing great things in our community.

We welcomed Tamika, Ember, Becca, Georgia, Rosie, Kelly, Ragan, Katie, Cynthia, and Toyin. By the end of the evening, Tamika became our newest member!

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, August 10 at 5:30 (location TBD) and we are planning a special gathering for new and prospective members Tuesday, August 31, 5:30 at Homewood Suites.

Learn more about our chapter on Facebook. Also, find us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

*AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

Summer Dinner at Noodles

Members and friends of AAUW are invited to join us for dinner Tuesday, July 20 at 5:30 at Noodles in Fayetteville. New to AAUW? This would be a fabulous opportunity to learn more about our chapter. We will have a short business meeting then spend the dinner networking and socializing with one another. Bring a friend! (attendees responsible for their bills)

Little Rock Hosts 2010 AAUW 5-State Convention, June 11-12

Join us for the 2010 AAUW Five-State Conference in Little Rock, AR June 11-12. Highlights include presentations on the AAUW STEM research project, the Equal Rights Amendment, challenges to our democratic government, and other issues of equity in our communities. AAUW national president Carolyn Garfein is our keynote speaker. Join AAUW members and friends from Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas for this special event. For more information and registration details, visit: http://www.aauwmo.org/2010_Five-State_Conference/AAUW_in_Little_Rock_2010.pdf

2010-2011 AAUW Officers

Congratulations to our 2010-2011 officers: Felisha Harper Perrodin, President; Heather Schneller, Programs Vice President; Shawna Thorup and Emily Ironside, Membership Co-Vice Presidents; Susan Graham, Treasurer; and Christine Soutter, Secretary. They will assume duties July 1. A sincere thanks to Robin Coggins, Diana Gonzales Worthen, Sharon Phelps, and others who have served in the past. We look forward to this new year!

AR Ranks 33rd in Gender Pay Gap Study

Women have made remarkable strides in education during the past three decades, but these gains have yet to translate into full equity in pay — even for college-educated women who work full time. A typical college-educated woman 25 years and older working full time earns $50,000 a year compared to $70,000 for college-educated male workers 25 years and older — a difference of $20,000!

Passing legislation such as the Paycheck Fairness Act is critical to closing this gap. Read more about the gender gap study as well as take action at: http://www.aauw.org/learn/research/statedata/

AAUW has taken the lead on gender gap research, giving us one more reason why this organization is so vital to our community's women. Join today.

2010 AAUW State Convention April 16-17

AAUW Fayetteville is preparing for this year's AAUW Arkansas State Convention to be held April 16-17 at the Homewood Suites in Fayetteville, AR. This weekend promises several opportunities for networking with Arkansas AAUW members as well as a variety of interesting programs.

• Friday's agenda includes a tour of the Fayetteville Public Library, a welcome dinner, and the "Three Rules of Life" session by Lea Ann Van Winkle-Gisler.
• Saturday's schedule is packed with insightful speakers such as Letha Granberry from the National Girl Collaborative Project, Gail Nordmoe-VP President of AAUW Board of Directors, AR AAUW President Barbara Yarnell, and Kae Chatman on the Commission to Reestablish a Commision on the Status of Women.

Convention registration is $40 (there is an additional $20 fee for the optional Friday evening programs). Hotel reservations should be made directly with the hotel (479-442-3000) by March 30. Conference registrations are due April 10.

Download the full agenda and registration form here: http://www.experiencefayetteville.com/aauw

Women's History Month Banquet

AAUW is co-hosting the 2010 NWA Women's History Month Banquet in honor of local women who make history through their service and leadership in our community. This annual banquet is to be held Monday, March 29, 6:00 p.m. at the Clarion Inn in Fayetteville, AR. For ticket information, contact Lorraine Brewer at lobrewer@uark.edu or Lisa Corrigan at lcorriga@uark.edu. Tickets are $20.

Local Candidates to Speak at March 9 Meeting

AAUW has invited several candidates running for our local judicial and legislative races to speak at this month's meeting on March 9. We will have the opportunity to hear from Judge District 5 candidates Beth Storey Bryan and Marsha Woodruff; Judge District 7 candidates Gary Carson, Charles Duell, Judge Joanna Taylor and Steve Zega; plus candidates Greg Leding and Bill Ramsey for AR House of Representatives for Fay. District 92.

Networking begins at 5:30 and the program begins at 6:00 in the Fayetteville Public Library Community Room. Bring your questions as there will be time for Q&A.

RSVP on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/event.php?eid=335507353457&ref=mf

President Proclaims March 2010 Women's History Month

"This month, let us carry forth the legacy of our mothers and grandmothers. As we honor the women who have shaped our Nation, we must remember that we are tasked with writing the next chapter of women's history. Only if we teach our daughters that no obstacle is too great for them, that no ceiling can block their ascent, will we inspire them to reach for their highest aspirations and achieve true equality."--President Barack Obama

Click here for the full proclamation:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/presidential-proclamation-womens-history-month

University of Arkansas Establishes Commission on Women

The University of Arkansas has established a Commission on Women to serve as an advisory group on issues such as work/life balance, mentoring among faculty and staff, campus safety and environment, and other issues that have an impact on women. Provost Sharon L. Gaber says, "There is a heightened national awareness about the gains and gaps in the status of women [and] the timing of bringing that focus to the University of Arkansas couldn't be better." Read more about the commission at: http://newswire.uark.edu/Article.aspx?id=13548

AAUW Member Honored by Springdale School Board

AAUW celebrates member Diana Gonzales Worthen: Diana was honored by the Springdale public schools' board of directors for her efforts with the Toyota Family Literacy Program grant. Read the full story here: http://newswire.uark.edu/article.aspx?id=13532

Ginger Beebe to be Rescheduled

CANCELLATION: Due to road conditions, Ginger Beebe's appearance at tonight's AAUW's meeting will be rescheduled.