Dear Members,
I would just like to share my reflection on the past first three months of having the opportunity, honor, and responsibility of becoming your President. It has been exciting, inspiring, and definitely very challenging, but thanks to a reconfiguration of our staff, I have had the most amazing help during this transitional period. The expertise, and knowledge about every aspect of NAWA’s practices and administration, has been provided by Jill Cliffer Baratta, our new Executive Director, and Susan G. Hammond, who has graciously accepted to be the Vice President. They have both devoted endless hours to guide me through the process of slowly reopening the office, and are the spirit and essence of the NAWA Sisterhood. It has been like boot camp for me, and their training has been invaluable. With Susan and Jill, the NAWA organization has an immeasurable treasure.
Our bookkeeper, Daphne Menard, has done an excellent job at making certain that all our records are kept up to date. Furthermore, Natalia Koren Kropf has given me lots of assistance, and background knowledge about programs that were created during her presidency. She was also instrumental in getting an interview with Suzanne Johnson, a contributing writer for Elysian Magazine. This magazine’s primary focus is on women’s achievements. NAWA is featured in the fall issue as “NAWA: the original art influencers.” The plan is to continue our connection with the magazine for the future.
NAWA has three dynamic committee chairs who have worked tirelessly. They are Joanna Biondolillo, Exhibition Chair, Elena Zelenina, Membership Chair, and Mary Ahern, Public Relations. They have devoted hours working to increase the efficiency in all three areas, membership, public relations, and exhibitions. We have had numerous Zoom meetings over the summer to plan and develop new ideas.
Finally, the Executive Board of Directors Meeting was held on September 13th. It was a hybrid meeting that took place both virtually and in the Meeting Room at the National Arts Club. We are very lucky to have such a talented team on the board. Sonia Stark has volunteered to be the new Treasurer. She is very well skilled in financial affairs, and has already met with Jill, Daphne and I a few times to discuss NAWA’s finances.
We look forward to our 132nd Annual Exhibit at One Art Space and sharing the excitement with those of you who can join us on Zoom. Jill has worked tirelessly on ironing out all the details for the exhibit which is truly a daunting task. It’s a great way to celebrate our extraordinary NAWA family.
In closing, we are vibrantly moving out of the darkness of Covid, and our future looks exciting and bright. To all the NAWA members, keep creating, and be on the lookout for some new online, and possibly brick and mortar spectacular exhibition opportunities.
Christie Devereaux
President, NAWA
