AAUW Corpus Christi Branch held its May 7, 2022, Luncheon at the YWCA, starting at 11:00 a.m.  After two years of most meetings being held online, it was a special treat to be able to meet in person and spend some social time together again.  Our lunch was provided by U.S.S. Catering, a local woman-owned business that specializes in home-style meals, including breads and dressings made from scratch.  A special thank you goes to Vice President of Programs, Dr. Mary Sherwood, for organizing the luncheon and finding the caterer for us.

After our regular meeting agenda items were covered, outgoing president Shirley Selz gave a heartfelt speech, thanking the many members who provided considerable support during her tenure by competently and graciously completing their respective areas of responsibilities. Shirley reminded us that we accomplished a great deal over the past two years, irrespective of a national health crisis and a continuing recommendation to stay at home for most of those two years.

Annie Huckabee, who served as president of the Branch in 2008-10, conducted the installation of new officers.  As each new officer stepped forward, Annie outlined the duties and responsibilities for the position.  Incoming officers include Deanne Purcell as Secretary, Cheryl Sanders as Vice President of AAUW Funds, and Dr. Catherine Cox as President.

Newly inducted officers: Deanne Purcell, Secretary; Cheryl Sanders, Vice President of AAUW Finds;        Dr. Catherine Cox, President.

Incoming president Dr. Catherine Cox also made an impassioned speech, thanking the membership for entrusting the position to her and sharing her enthusiasm and vision for the future of our Branch.  As the gavel was passed from former to incoming president, Catherine also thanked Shirley for her steadfast leadership and presented Shirley with a commemorative pin.

2022-23 officers, seated: Dr. Sylvia Rendon, Vice President of Membership; Deanne Purcell, Secretary; Dr. Catherine Cox, President; Cheryl Sanders, Vice President of AAUW Funds; Janet Blanke, STEM Committee Chair.  Standing: Dr. Vickie Natale, Finance Officer; Kristin Conlan, Book Finders co-Chair; Dr. Mary Sherwood, Vice President of Programs; Shirley Selz, Parliamentarian.  Not pictured: Kelly Gonzalez, Community Outreach Chair; Betty Maroney, Book Finders co-chair.