Dear Readers,
Women’s History Month is in March. I have always found it to be an interesting time. I make it my business both during February and March to learn an abundance more about black history and women’s history. Being a woman and black, it is important for me to learn more. I also must get in some Latino history as well. In February, I even purchased a book about President Abraham Lincoln. I am hoping that it will be one of the two books, I plan on reading this year. I read a lot but seldom have time to read full length books. However, I use reference books a lot, which I just realized when someone made a comment about how worn and tattered one of my books were. I was actually flattered in my eccentric kind of way.
I have also decided to look at who locally I can find inspiration in and there are many groups that do that. I found that when you have conversations with women or individuals you respect, it gives you an opportunity to inquire about what is going on in their lives.
On March 6 The Lansing/East Lansing Chapter of The Links, Incorporated will celebrate
Women’s History Month by hosting its fourth annual White Rose Gala on Wednesday, March 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Huntington Club (Overlooking Spartan Stadium), on the campus of Michigan State University.
During this strolling reception, the Links will present the Young Professional Leadership and Organizational Leadership ATHENA Awards and will highlight the chapter’s ongoing community service efforts. This dynamic event provides the community with an opportunity to network with leaders from the business, legal, health, and education sectors.
“It is our honor to recognize this year’s award recipients who have demonstrated the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishments while advancing the development and leadership of women in our community,” said Dr. Sonya Gunnings-Moton, President of the Lansing/East Lansing Links.
Shenetra Moses, General Assembly Launch Manager for General Motors Company – Lansing Grand River, will receive the Young Professional Leadership Award. “Shenetra has been an instrumental part in the launch of the 2014 Cadillac CTS,” said Tony Francavilla, Lansing regional plant manager. “Her strong work ethic and personal commitment to quality is obvious in everything she does.” Gillespie Group, a real estate development and property management firm, will receive the Organizational Leadership Award. “There is nothing more rewarding than helping someone achieve their full potential,” said Rachel Michaud, vice president at Gillespie Group. “At Gillespie Group, we have created a culture that is especially supportive of women as they develop into the leaders of tomorrow.”
Guest presenters of the ATHENA Awards during the White Rose Gala include a former ATHENA Award recipient, Paula Cunningham, President and CEO of Capitol National Bank
(member of the Lansing/East Lansing Links, Incorporated), and Dr. Jacqueline D. Taylor, a consultant and entrepreneur and former member of the Board of Directors for ATHENA
International.
Tickets are available for purchase for $45.
For more information, access the Links’ website: www.lansingeastlansinglinksinc.org.
There are some really awesome things going on in your community. Just ask the people who you respect. Also look into trying something new. You can find different things to do in any newspaper. If you choose to feel uncomfortable, bring someone with you who will keep you company while you are meeting new people. Expound on the positive qualities of the evening and use them as a learning lesson for what you will choose to do the next outing. For crying out loud, do something different.
Love People,
Rina Risper
This was printed in the February 23, 2014 – March 8, 2014 edition.
