GWC Annual Meeting, “Celebrating Our First Year!”, at Greenwood Genetic Center, March 26, 2019
GWC members and guests met Tuesday, March 26 at the Greenwood Genetic Center to celebrate our first Annual Meeting.
Champagne, punch, appetizers, strawberry parfaits, and cookies representing our grant awards (specially crafted by Connie Carstens) were enjoyed by all!
Angelle LaBorde, Chair of the Programs & Education Committee, introduced Dawn Puderbaugh Hodges who gave an informative talk about the history and overview of the programs at the Greenwood Genetic Center, our hosting venue. Anne Hancock, Chair of the Governance & Finance Committee, presented the slate of GWC Officers and Steering Committee which was approved by the Members present. They are: Laura Bachinski and Mary Woodiwiss, Co-Chairs; Laura Stowe, Secretary; Lou Noel, Treasurer; Summer Booker, Kelly Buckshorn, Alison Fletcher, Anne Hancock, Angelle LaBorde, Megha Lal, Deborah Parks, Anna Welborn, and Trentsie Williams.
Mary Woodiwiss reviewed highlights of our first year, including the key activities of each committee. Mary noted our 2019 GWC Grant recipients, with awards totaling $47,625 (as previously announced to the Membership). We were excited to learn that the financial health of GWC going into our second year is extremely strong with balances as follows: Granting Fund $42,536, Endowment Fund $23,516, and Administration Budget $6,498.
Looking towards the future, Laura Bachinski discussed ways to support GWC through Gift Memberships as well as gifts made in memory or honor of an individual. She also spoke of the importance of strengthening the framework of GWC through our Standing Committees. Laura briefly discussed our annual calendar, social events, and made us aware that we could look forward to our November Meeting when we will hear from our grant recipients.
