The Tryon area branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) celebrated their 30th anniversary on April 24, 2017. Peggy Woodward, one of two remaining charter members, gave a brief presentation about the founding of the chapter and told about Betty Huddleston and Pat Fiol (both recently deceased) who made significant contributions to the branch.

Resolutions honoring their many contributions to the organization were presented to Peggy Woodward and Joan Wilkinson.

Mrs. Woodward served as treasurer and president of AAUW and helped found a scholarship program which has sent high school women to a summer college experience every year since 1987.

Joan Wilkinson was active as the educational foundation chair from 1987-1989 and then served as vice president for membership. During her tenure she accepted awards for branch membership growth of first in North Carolina and third in the nation. Both women remain active and involved in AAUW.

AAUW offers membership to any woman or man who has received a degree from an accredited two or four-year college or university. Monthly meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month from September to May at the Tryon Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall. More information may be found at tryonncaauw@gmail.com.

– article submitted by Priscilla Yeager