What Matters?
A message from WPF President, Amy Baradell
Greetings WPF sisters! Our time together in person and on zoom for our January meeting was a great kick off to the new year. As we, the members of WPF, look forward to 2022, it can be helpful to look back to the beginning of this group. The bylaws of our organization begin with this statement:
The purpose of this Corporation shall be to support women on a professional level; to learn from each member by sharing professional information, experience, ideas; to develop and influence confidence as women executives; and to educate and encourage women to aspire to higher career goals.
A question I often encounter in reading and on podcast is “What matters?” The practice of looking through this lens, this question, gives clarity to our decisions. As professional women, we are involved in managing so many things in our lives. It is easy to be on autopilot, syncing our calendars, checking off one event after another. In the task of multi-tasking, we can often forget what does matter. As this question gets further and further back in our review mirror, life can become busier, decisions become harder, and we simply get worn out.
I really believe this question was brought front and center during COVID. We all felt everything come to a screeching halt. There were so many changes in our lives as most activities were stripped away. Because we were so limited, we had to come down to this question. What matters? As the board began our retreat in January, I asked each board member what mattered to her in WPF. The words relationship, encouragement and connection came up throughout our discussion. Most board members remembered the WPF sister who introduced them to this organization and said it was just what they needed. As we make decisions of what we will do with our time, our energy, our finances, our skills, our education, and our experiences, let’s stop to ask what matters?
As WPF moves into 2022, we will be asking this question. We are excited that this year we will have a new members class. Jody Susong and her committee are working hard updating the application process and communicating with sponsors. Our programs committee, chaired by Ronnie Grabon, is in the process of planning the year. On your preference sheets, which have been sent out and are due back February 4, there is a new section where you can list topics that interest you for our monthly lunch meetings. We want to have speakers that present information that matters to you. Our SIG groups are brought together by this very question. You can find out what matters to them by the name of their group. It’s pretty straightforward. Each year we have small group dinners. During these there are questions asked and discussed because we want to know what matters to you.
There are decisions ahead of us as a group and we will work through them with this question as our lens. Some of my what matters as a WPF sister are supporting each other, learning from each other, encouraging each other, and having each other’s backs. What matters to you?
February Meeting – Wednesday, February 9, 2022
Transforming Healthcare for Women with Dr. Kelly Leggett
Kelly Leggett, MD, MHA, is an obstetrician and gynecologist with the Women’s and Children’s Hospital Faculty Practice at Cone Health. She served as the medical director of the faculty practice for 10 years. Kelly is a graduate of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Long Island Jewish Medical Center.
Dr. Leggett has served as a physician leader throughout her tenure with Cone Health. In 2016, she was named Cone Health Clinical Transformation Officer and continues to practice as an OB/GYN.
She has been instrumental in establishing a prenatal mobile app called “Babyscripts” that includes remote monitoring that may eliminate some prenatal visits for patients. She led the effort with Babyscripts developers to create a Healthy Pregnancy model for Cone Health employees to use. In addition, she spearheaded the new Center for Women’s Healthcare at MedCenter for Women.
Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. She enjoys outdoor pursuits with her family including biking, hiking, boating and paddle boarding.
Special Note: Due to rising costs, lunch fees have increased to $25 for Guests, Emeritus, and Supporting members. Please remember to pay by cash or check at the door. Thank you!
WHAT’S ON THE LUNCH BUFFET
• Butternut bisque
• Cream of red pepper soup
• Baked sweet potato bar
• Mixed greens salad bar
• Fruit salad
• Chef’s choice dessert
APRIL MEETING mark your calendar!!
APRIL MEETING mark your calendar!!Colonel Eileen Collins, the first American woman to command a space mission will be joining us by Zoom and her co-author, Jonathan Ward – a local expert on the space program – will be in person.
Get your signed copy of the book from Programs Committee Chair Ronnie Grabon (rsgrabon@gmail.com) if you’d like to read the book in advance!
It’s time to renew your WPF Membership
March 1, 2022 is the deadline for renewing your membership and paying annual dues. If you’d like to change your membership status, you must contact Membership Chair Jody Susong (jsusong@triad.rr.com) and request a status change. All requests must be approved by our Board of Directors. If you’re not sure of your current member status, contact Pat Arnett at admin@wpforum.org.
2022 Dues and Membership Categories
Active Member: $325
Supporting Member: $160
Active Retired: $325
Emeritus Member: $90
2 ways to pay!
• ONLINE: Go to wpforum.org, scroll to bottom of page, click PAY DUES. Complete the form, using your credit card and submit. Please note that additional PayPal fees are charged
• MAIL YOUR CHECK: Payable to WPF and mailed to PO Box 38594, Greensboro, NC 27438
and update your Preferences!
On January 21, you should have received an email with a link to update your WPF Preferences. This is your opportunity to tell us if you have new contact information, what Special Interest Groups you’d like to receive information from, if you’re interested in serving on our Board, Foundation Board or a Committee, and provide valuable feedback about our speakers/programs and nominees for next year’s Board.
If you did not receive the email, contact Pat Arnett at admin@wpforum.org. Deadline to submit your Preference Sheet is Friday, February 4, 2022.
New & Improved Member Application
a message from Jody Susong, Membership Committee Chair
The Membership Committee has been hard at work getting ready for an exciting and productive new year. Since we were not able to accept new members last year, we look forward to hearing from you about the great applicants that you have for this year. With the new class, we would like to emphasize engagement of our new members. You’ll be hearing more about this in the coming months.
We have updated our Membership Application which can be found on the website along with the Sponsor Form. Here are the membership application procedures:
• New members are accepted once yearly. Completed applications must be received by the Membership Chair by June 1 for membership beginning September 1.
• An Active and Active Retired member may either sponsor or co-sponsor a total of no more than two new member applications in any fiscal year. An Emeritus member may co-sponsor no more than two new member applications in any fiscal year.
• New members may be a sponsor after 24 months of membership. The waiting period to sponsor a new member does not apply to WPF members who have been reinstated as members after having left WPF in good standing.
• Prospective members will attend a WPF luncheon meeting with each of her sponsors, a total of three meetings, within the twelve months prior to application.
• Sponsors will agree to provide any information about the prospective member as requested by the Membership Committee.
• If an applicant is rejected for membership, the primary sponsor and co-sponsors will be notified prior to notifying the applicant.
• Members of the Membership Committee, WPF President and Supporting members cannot act as sponsors.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at jsusong@triad.rr.com. We look forward with great anticipation to the New Member Class for 2022!
Deadline for Letters of Application 2/15/22 … Help us spread the word!
Deadline for Letters of Application 2/15/22 … Help us spread the word!A message from WPF Foundation President, Jean Pudlo
WPF Foundation is now accepting Letters of Application for possible funding with a deadline to submit by February 15, 2022. The WPF Foundation awards grants to organizations that can demonstrate their program or service, empowers women and/or girls, and directly connects to the purpose of the WPF Foundation.
WPFF Grants empower Women and Girls by supporting:
• Opportunities for women and girls to aspire to or further their careers;
• Education and leadership development of women and girls;
• Education of the public on the status and rights of women; and
• Recognition of achievements and contributions of women
For more information or to submit a Letter of Application, visit https://wpforum.org/foundation/grants/
$24,000 to local nonprofits in 2021
WPF Foundation grants to supported these programs last year:
• Communities in Schools of Greater Greensboro $5,600
• Nussbaum Center $2,400
• New Arrivals Institute $6,000
• UNCG Center for New North Carolinians $10,000
In 1984, a group of WPF members created the WPF Foundation and over the past 37 years, WPF members have generously given over $500,000 to create our endowment – allowing us to make a difference to so many well deserving agencies. The Foundation Board is grateful for the support of WPF members to make these grants available. Thank you!
Special Interest Group Upcoming Events
BOOK CLUB
Tuesday, February 1 @ 7:00 PM at Ronnie Grabon’s home
The discussion of The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles will be lead by Ashley Madden. This book received high praise from numerous members. Contact Ronnie with your RSVP at rsgrabon@gmail.com. Ronnie is able to host 12 people. If the number of responses exceeds twelve we will consider a second meeting so feel free to RSVP.
WORKING MOMS
Tuesday, February 15 @ 12:00 PM ~ Char Bar 7, 3724 Lawndale Drive
We are planning to meet at Char Bar 7 outside as they have heaters (trying to make this a safe gathering for all). They do not take reservations but I talked to them and if I call right at 11 am they will make sure we have a table outside for our group. Please RSVP to Marlee at marleegfoster@gmail.com or 336-235-1596.
SIPPIN’ SISTERS
Tuesday, February 15 @ 6:00 PM at Kathy Saunder’s home
Happy Valentine’s Day with the Sippin’ Sisters! Come enjoy our featured “Ruby Red Kiss” martini and a secret crowd favorite. Kathy Saunders will be our hostess along with Judy Susong. Space is limited to 12. Please RSVP to Kathy at (336) 707-4928.
BOOKS & ARTS
Wednesday, Feb. 16 @ 6:30 PM at Kris Landrum’s home
Please join us for the annual Books and Arts planning meeting at the home of Kris Landrum. A light dinner, with requisite wine and appetizers, will be served. Michele Smith and Kris want your input and assistance in making this a great year for the SIG! Come prepared with ideas for activities for the year and a willingness to organize an event. RSVP to Kris at klandrum@tuggleduggins.com if you plan to attend. Gathering space at the house is somewhat limited so get your reservation in asap.
WhINE DIVAS
Thursday, Feb. 17 @ 6:30 PM at Dee Blake’s home
Kick off the New Year with Whine Divas by sampling Spanish wines at the home of Dee Blake. The wine tastings, education program and hors d’oeuvres are provided at a cost of $25 per person. This event is FULL Email Dee uhmanoa1@gmail.com if you would like to be on the wait list. Whine Divas meets the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
WOMEN OF WALL STREET (WOW)
Thursday, February 17 @ 6:00 PM at Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, 2600 Pisgah Church Road
This is our first business meeting of the year where we will welcome new members, elect officers, and review our portfolio. RSVP to Peggy Ward at peggy.ward8@icloud.com. Please mark your calendar now to attend.
FINANCIAL DIVAS
Savvy Tax Strategies for the New Year
Wednesday, February 23 @ 12:00 PM on Zoom
Financial Divas welcomes WPF’s very own Ashely Madden as our next speaker. Join us for her timely presentation. Topics will include 2021 tax return filing changes, how to maximize your tax deductions (including charitable donations), strategies for IRAs, Roth IRAs and HSAs, and more! RSVP to Cecelia Anderson at canderson@investdavenport.com.
Financial Divas meet to discuss all things financial with a different topic/speaker each meeting. Join us to expand your fiscal knowledge and to discuss your money and invested related questions. All are welcome and we are always looking for speakers. Please contact Cecelia Anderson if you’re not already on the email list or if you are interested in being a speaker.
DINING OUT
Wednesday, Feb. 23 @ 6:30 PM
Undercurrent hosted by Brenda Madden at 327 Battleground Avenue
NOTE: Limit 12
We had a great time at our first Dining Out of 2022 at Lucky 32. In addition to great conversations, we set a plan for hosts from February through October. We will be dining at some old favorites, as well as some new places to try out.
Stay tuned through the WPF monthly newsletter for locations each month, as well as the notices to the Dining Out email list subscribers. If you would like to be on the email list, please send a message to Amy Meinecke at diningout@wpforum.org. Bon Appetit!
DINING OUT
Wednesday, March 31 on Zoom w/Dede Potter
Please check the WPF website for info on the next Dining Out. If you would like to be placed on the Dining Out email list, send your name and email address to Amy Meinecke at diningout@wpforum.org.
SERVICE TO OTHERS
Saturday, February 26 9:00-10:30am @ Backpack Beginnings
3711 Alliance Drive, Greensboro, NC
We are excited to offer our first volunteer opportunity for 2022 at BackPack Beginnings. It is a 95% volunteer-driven organization dedicated to delivering child-centric services to feed, comfort and clothe children in need. They help over 17,000 children annually experiencing hunger and trauma in 64 Guilford County Schools and 44 Child Assistance Organizations. We will plan on going to lunch afterwards to better get to know our WPF sisters.
To learn more about their programs and services, visit their website at www.backpackbeginnings.org. To join us, RSVP to Jody Susong at jsusong@triad.rr.com.
We’re back!! WILD WOMEN IN THE MOUNTAINS!
March 25-27, 2022
In March of 2019 Wild Women in the Mountains celebrated 20 years of fond memories in Blowing Rock (see photo). In March of 2020 things changed. Days before WWM were to ascend the mountains, the Governor of North Carolina shut us down. Covid had reared its ugly head in our wonderful state and we were to stay at home. In June of 2021, with a slight opening up, we celebrated WWM – the Greensboro Edition.
We are now ready to celebrate in style with the Wild Women in the Mountains, March 25-27 in Blowing Rock. Over 30 women have signed up to attend this fun-filled weekend. Starting with Cocktails, Snacks and Conversation at Bistro Roca on Friday at 5pm we will spend our time shopping, hiking, talking, reading, shopping, eating, “spa”ing (is that a word?) and having a good time.
We are so excited to have 30 women already signed up and we do have room for a few more. Cost is $125 per person. This includes two-night stay, the “snack” part of Friday night, breakfast Saturday and Sunday and a delicious dinner on Saturday (plus a few “incidentals”). Please get your check to Sarah Shoffner ASAP.
Blowing Rock here we come!!
BOOKS & ARTS Save the Date!
Blowing Rock July 21-24, 2022
Books and Arts annual July Blowing Rock trip (not to be confused with the always fantastic Wild Women in the Mountains spring trip) will be July 21st to 24th. Preliminarily, we think we will be able to book the Springhaven Inn on Main Street and a condo at Chetola. We have stayed in the Springhaven Inn before and it is a charming old house without updated amenities but it has a great location. The Chetola condo will give us an outpost for the Chetola symphony concert on the 22nd. Details as to whether the annual Blowing Rock home tour will take place are not yet available.
The weekend is always loads of fun with activities including shopping, hiking, socializing with friends, the concert and other possibilities to be determined. Current projected cost is $210/person for the 3- night stay. We anticipate having 14 spots initially available and might add a few more if there is demand. If you want to be part of this trip, contact Kris Landrum at klandrum@tuggleduggins.com to reserve your space ASAP.
