REGIONAL DIRECTOR’S ADDRESS TO MA STATE LEADERS APRIL 2008

GREETINGS from

Joint Association and Educational Foundation boards and Presidents

Other New England states – collegial October Regional Conference

Noted some titles on exciting agenda – could have used any of them

Start Smart, Work Smart, Return Smart – Annie Houle

Making it Real – Beryl and Pam Pollock YWCA

It is a Woman’s Issue?

All relevant, Specifically wanted to highlight Transformation of AAUW and importance of our newly adopted Value Promise

Over two years, Strategic Process engendered bold, transformative change

Merging of corporations into one clear entity

Restructuring of governance at all levels

Evaluating current programs in relation to the mission

Allocating resources more wisely, strategically

Working in more focused direction

MISSION, VISION, VALUE PROMISE CONFUSING?

Mission is heart of what we do and empowers us: AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education and research.

Vision is the ideal that we share: AAUW will be a powerful advocate and visible leader in equity and education through research, philanthropy, and measurable change in critical areas impacting the lives of women and girls.

Value Promise (adopted February 2008 Joint Board meeting) expresses the spirit of AAUW. By joining AAUW, we belong to a community that breaks through educational and economic barriers so that all women have a fair chance.

Clear statement of united commitment to our mission

A reference point against which we measure all our programming, provides a framework

CONSIDER THE PHRASING OF THE VALUE PROMISE

By joining AAUW, we belong to a community

Nearly 100,000 women and men,(working on greater diversity in outreach)

Local, state, regional, national levels

Community includes collaborative partners: individuals/organizations

That breaks through economic and educational barriers

Continue to fight to protect the intent of Title IX, which bans sexual discrimination in education

Supported Higher Education Act Reauthorization, benefiting women, non-traditional students, promoting greater access to STEM education

Supported Healthy Families Act – 7 paid sick days /year for family needs

Pushing for passage of Fair Pay Restoration Act, addressing Supreme Court decision in Ledbetter v Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co

So that all women have a fair chance through

$4 million awarded last year by EF grants, fellowships to 250+ women

Publication of research Behind the Pay Gap and Drawing the Line: Sexual Harassment on Campus => startling data, impetus for action

Sponsorship of National Conference of College Women Student Leaders

June 5-7, Washington DC

Partnerships in STEM through branch, state activities and the National Girls Collaborative Project

VALUE PROMISE

Encompasses, supports mission and vision

Is framework, filter for programs and activities => mission focused

for maximum impact nationally and in our communities

Unifies AAUW’s efforts

To achieve our vision, AAUW must be focused, easily identifiable

Logo of W, and initials AAUW

PRIDE IN PARTICIPATION AS ENGAGED MEMBERS, DONORS, SUPPORTERS