By: Nermin K. Ahmad
NFBPWC Secretary 2024-2026 

Thank you sister leaders for sending me your material to send out after our quarterly  meeting. I am proud to be a part of a group of women who lead in so many ways and  your words make for strong reading. It is indeed a privilege to serve you. 

By: Emily VanVleck
2^nd Vice President of Advocacy, NFBPWC 2024-2026 

As we enter the month of November, we approach a season marked by gratitude and  reflection. For those of us in advocacy, November is also a time of renewed  determination, and this November is a defining month for advocates, bringing  opportunities for us to take action and have our voices heard at the polls. As Vice  President of Advocacy, I invite you to join us in making a lasting impact for women  everywhere. Whether it’s through casting your ballot, supporting survivors, or raising  awareness for critical issues, every action counts. 

November 5: Election Day 

November’s biggest day of advocacy happens early in the month on Election Day. This election will shape  policies that impact women’s healthcare, reproductive rights, economic equity, and workplace protections. As  a nonpartisan organization, we don’t endorse candidates, but we do urge each of you to vote with a  commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of women. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Make a Voting Plan: Check your polling location and hours, plan your transportation, and set time  aside on your schedule to get out and vote. 

● Encourage Others to Vote: Remind friends, family, and colleagues to get out to vote, particularly those  who may face barriers, like childcare or work constraints. Spread the word on social media about the  importance of voting in support of women’s issues. 

● Volunteer for Voter Support: Assist with phone banks, offer transportation to polling places, or  volunteer with local voter outreach initiatives to help ensure all voices are heard. 

November 25: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 

November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day established  by the United Nations to raise awareness of the widespread violence women face globally. From domestic  violence to human trafficking, gender-based violence impacts one in three women worldwide—a staggering  and unacceptable statistic. 

This day is the starting point of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which continues  through December 10 (Human Rights Day). These 16 days represent a powerful global campaign to challenge  violence against women and call for stronger action from governments, organizations, and individuals. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Support Survivors: Donate to local women’s shelters or advocacy groups that provide direct services  to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. Even small contributions can provide  critical support to those in need. 

● Advocate for Policy Change: Contact your local representatives to advocate for stronger protections  against gender-based violence. Push for the passage of laws that ensure justice for survivors, such as  funding for domestic violence shelters and protections from abusers. 

● Engage on Social Media: Take to social media to raise awareness about violence against women. Share  survivor stories, facts about gender-based violence, and resources for those seeking help. Education is  the most important step in advocacy and building awareness. 

Transgender Awareness Week (November 13–19) 

November also brings Transgender Awareness Week from November 13 to 19. This is a time to uplift  transgender voices and raise awareness about the challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly  transgender women, who are disproportionately affected by violence and discrimination. The week ends on  Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, which honors the memory of those whose lives were  lost to anti-transgender violence. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Amplify Trans Voices: Share stories from transgender advocates, and highlight the intersectional  nature of women’s rights and transgender rights. Help to raise awareness of the unique challenges  faced by transgender women and the importance of inclusivity in our fight for gender equality. 

● Advocate for Legal Protections: Advocate for policies that protect transgender individuals from  discrimination in healthcare, employment, and education. Call on your elected officials to support  inclusive legislation that affirms the rights and dignity of transgender people. 

● Support Trans-Led Organizations: Donate to organizations that provide services and support to  transgender individuals, particularly those focusing on transgender women of color, who face the  highest levels of violence and discrimination. 

Advocacy is about more than just raising awareness—it’s about creating lasting change. November’s advocacy  days remind us of the interconnected nature of women’s rights. Whether it’s gender-based violence or  transgender inclusion, these issues are all tied to women’s health, safety, and empowerment. 

The Advocacy Committee thanks everyone who attended our latest advocacy event, An Educational Panel on  Project 2025. If you missed any part of the discussion or would like to review the insights shared, you can  access the event recording here. Stay tuned for our next event, and feel free to join our next advocacy meeting  on November 21st.

By: Barbara Bozeman 
President, NFBPWC 2024-2026

Every day filled with fun and laughter. The home of Dollywood, of course we spent time there – The exhibits were  terrific and inspired.  

The motto of Sisters on the Fly is “We have more fun than anyone” and while that is certainly true, we also raised  $20,000 for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and managed to fill at least one toy hauler trailer with supplies to  send to Western North Carolina for the post Helene efforts.  

But the sun had to set on this road trip at some point – and so it did… 

After all was said and done, for 30 days on the road, I spent 14 full days in a field, shooting a national event, 3 full days on the road in transit, 8 days camping, held one Board meeting, one EC meeting, led the Virtual Club monthly meeting, attended a UN subcommittee meeting, attended 2 Regional Meetings preparing for the International Congress and had over 10 hours of additional meetings related to BPW. 

This would all seem like “just too much” if I didn’t love what I was doing at the same time!  

So what’s next?? November is shaping up to be a busy and interesting and exciting month for us all.  

First, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to all our members who have a birthday this month. I hope you get every wish!!!  

Second, we have two important election days coming up.  

November 5^th: Regardless of which side of the aisle you stand on – this election will have a historical significance. Either we are going to have only the second president in history to have a second, non-consecutive term, or we will see the first woman president in history.  

November 21^st: At the International Congress, this is Election Day for the leadership for the next triennium of BPW International. 

There are 5 members of NFBPWC who are running for either Executive offices or to be Chair of a Standing  Committee. I’m sure you will join me in wishing them all good luck in their efforts.  

The Candidate information is available at on the International Congress website:  

https://www.bpwcongress.org/nominations/ 

~~~~ 

November 11^th: Veteran’s Day  

Most of you know, I am a 20-year veteran of the United States Air Force. Serving my country is one of the proudest times of my life.  

Now, I share that day with my granddaughter – who was graduating from basic training just about the same time you were electing me President.  

I hope you will find a way to recognize the Veterans in your life or seek them out to express appreciation.  

Here’s a tip: While we all appreciate the gesture of saying “Thank you for your service” – this time maybe ask a question about their service or ask them to share a good memory. We all have stories. 

And of course, this takes us to 

THANKSGIVING 

I hope all of you have are able to celebrate this holiday in the way that means the most to you.  

I hope you will take time to recognize the things we have in this life to be grateful for – even in the midst of hardships.  

I will be thinking of all of you with gratitude and wishes for continued well being and joy as the days of November wind down. 

With sincere gratitude,  

Barbara Bozeman 

President, NFBPWC 

2024-2026

By: Emily VanVleck
2^nd Vice President of Advocacy, NFBPWC 2024-2026 

Hello my friends in advocacy! 

October is here, bringing my absolute favorite time of the year. I love watching the  leaves change and enjoying the crisper days. It’s the perfect time to cuddle up with a  good book, but October also brings a renewed energy around advocacy for women’s  health and rights. This month, we recognize key advocacy days, and tackle pressing  issues. 

Period Action Day (October 12) 

One of the most significant dates for us this month is Period Action Day, observed  annually on the second Saturday of October. This day shines a spotlight on the importance of menstrual  equity—an issue that affects millions of girls and women worldwide. Despite progress, period poverty  remains a global issue. Too many are forced to miss school or work due to lack of access to menstrual products,  and the stigma surrounding menstruation continues to be a barrier to education and opportunity. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Donate: Support organizations that provide free menstrual products to women and girls in need. You  can also take advantage of our Host Your Own Period Product Drive sheet to host a product drive in  your local chapter.  

● Advocate for Legislation: Push for local and national governments to pass laws that provide free  menstrual products in schools, shelters, and prisons. Contact your representatives and ask them to  support bills that champion menstrual equity. We’ll have a one-pager going out with information  specific to your area soon! 

● Raise Awareness: Use your voice on social media. Share facts and stories to help reduce the stigma  surrounding menstruation. Normalize the conversation around periods by engaging your community  and making it a topic that’s discussed openly and without shame. 

Domestic Violence Awareness Month 

October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This is a crucial time to reflect on the experiences of  survivors and renew our commitment to ending domestic violence. Advocacy for survivors involves not only  raising awareness but also ensuring that resources and support systems are available. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Volunteer: Many domestic violence shelters and hotlines are in need of volunteers. Whether you can  spare a few hours a week or month, your time could be life-saving for a survivor in need. 

● Support Policy Changes: Advocate for stronger legal protections for survivors, including  comprehensive workplace protections, housing rights, and accessible mental health services. Reach out  to your local legislators to push for reforms that help survivors rebuild their lives. 

● Participate in Local Events: Many communities host domestic violence awareness walks, vigils, or  educational forums throughout October. Attend, show your support, and learn more about what you  can do to help.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

We cannot discuss October without highlighting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month brings  together advocates, survivors, and healthcare professionals to promote early detection, support research, and  emphasize the importance of access to affordable care. 

How You Can Take Action: 

● Host a Screening Event: Partner with local healthcare providers to offer free or discounted breast cancer  screenings in your community. Early detection can save lives, and increasing access is critical. 

● Promote Self-Exams and Awareness: Spread the word on social media about the importance of self exams and regular mammograms. Encourage women to be proactive about their health and remind them  that early detection is key. 

● Support Research and Care Organizations: Whether it’s a donation or fundraising event, supporting  organizations that provide research funding and patient care is a tangible way to make a difference. 

As we navigate the advocacy landscape this month, it’s essential that we keep our momentum going  throughout the year. These advocacy days and months are more than just symbols—they are opportunities for  us to take concrete actions that have real-world impacts. 

We hope that you can join us at our next advocacy event on Thursday, October 17th at 8 PM EDT. Register at:  https://nfbpwc.wildapricot.org/event-5884469 

As always, if you have exciting advocacy outreach to share, please let me know so we can highlight it here!  

Together, we are making a difference. Let's keep pushing for a world where every woman and girl can thrive,  free from barriers to their health, safety, and dignity. 

By: Megan Shellman-Rickard 
NBPWC Immediate Past-President (2020-2024) 

Living the Biennial Theme Part II 

President Barbara Bozeman’s 2024-26 theme: “Connecting  

Locally. Uniting Nationally. Igniting Globally.” Continues as my  

inspiration for this month’s article. 

Uniting Nationally 

As an organization, we are celebrating 105 years since  our founding in 1919 – an incredible achievement! Our federation was home to Lena Madesin Phillips who united women nationally as a co-founder of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC). In 1930 Ms. Phillips  expanded her outreach as the founder of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women. 

NFBPWC has operated as an inspiration for working women for over a century, but not without challenges  and changes. In 2009 the organization, known then as BPW – USA, closed its doors to membership while continuing efforts to move forward with other initiatives as a nonprofit. For many members, it was  heartbreaking to lose the unifying force of a national organization. 

One of our esteemed members, Bessie Hironimus, channeled the spirit of Lena  Madesin Phillips and her goal of connecting working women worldwide. Bessie’s  leadership enabled us to reestablish our national organization under the name of  EPW-USA and forge a reconnection with the International Federation of Business  and Professional Women. Ms. Hironimus served as our National President from  2010-2012 and her efforts united members throughout the USA who were bereft  without the beacon of a national membership organization. We are indebted  to Bessie for securing our articles of incorporation and creating new bylaws that reestablished us as a federation member affiliate of BPW International. Bessie Hironimus is a member who fully embodies this term’s theme. I applaud my friend, and esteemed member, for her accomplishments in BPW at the local, national, and international levels. Most importantly, I want to acknowledge that her leadership helped us in Uniting Nationally as members across the nation as NFBPWC. My personal gratitude to Bessie for all that she has done to make this organization phenomenal! 

Please continue to reach out to me personally or professionally as  we continue our work to make NFBPWC a better organization,  because together we are stronger. 

Best Personal Wishes, 

Megan Shellman-Rickard 

NBPWC Immediate Past-President (2020-2024) 

By: Nermin K. Ahmad
NFBPWC Secretary 2024-2026 

The transition is completed and I am preparing for the October Board meeting.  Remember to submit your Board Reports – I am not receiving many.  

In the interim I also am working through the Secretary’s files and inbox, learning all  that I can.  

I am very proud to represent all of your voices as a Delegate to the Triennial  Conference in St. Kitts. 

Dear Members:

I send greetings from Paducah, Kentucky!

My work as a photographer has led me here for a national event which will run through the beginning of October.  Shooting from dawn to dusk doesn’t leave much time for visiting the sites, but I managed to sneak a few hours over the past few weeks to not only visit the National Quilt Museum and meet a celebrity business owner in town, but to learn about one of the past local industries – button making from mussels.  Just gorgeous.

October!  How quickly time can fly? 

October 1^st will be my 60^th birthday.  I’ve never shied away from birthdays.  To me, celebrating the passage of time is a wonderous and awesome thing.  I look forward to my 60^th year and all the adventures it will bring. 

Speaking of adventures – BPW sure has a few coming up as we close out 2024. 

If October wasn’t busy enough with National Business Women’s Week, we are also preparing to participate in the International Congress in St. Kitts in November.  This year, there are many suggested changes for our Constitution, as well as election of the next Executive, Standing Committee Chairs and Regional Coordinators for the next triennium.  Lots to prepare for – and so excited that we (NFBPWC) will be presenting three workshops!  Whew!

Adding to the Delegates already selected in August:  Barbara Bozeman, Bessie Hironimus, and Nermin Ahmad, the alternate delegates for International Congress have been selected:

From New York City:  Emily VanVleck

From North Carolina:  Alice Gallup West

From Washington:  Rosalind Scott

Thank you all for agreeing to serve. 

More information regarding the International Congress is elsewhere in the magazine. 

By: Dr. Jo Naylor
NFBPWC Treasurer 2024-2026, treasurer@nfbpwc.org 

NEW NFBPWC TREASURER .... Hello! I am Dr. Jo Naylor, the NEW Treasurer. This  is my 20th year as a BPW member, and it is starting out in an exciting way! It is  wonderful to have a wonderful team to help me learn the processes involved to keep  accurate records and facilitate the success of NFBPWC.  

Please make sure you submit completed invoices in a timely manner, 14 days prior to  a request and provide receipts within 7 days of the complete activity. I look forward  to a wonderful two years! 

By: Megan Shellman-Rickard NBPWC Immediate Past-President (2020-2024)

Living the Biennial Theme 

President Barbara Bozeman’s 2024-26 theme: “Connecting  

Locally. Uniting Nationally. Igniting Globally.” is an inspiration  for my magazine article this month. 

Connecting Locally 

In early August I found myself traveling the 325 miles

 from Southwest Colorado to Northeast Colorado for a weekend festival with my husband to celebrate our anniversary. Many of our Colorado  members live in the Front Range area and although my time was limited and my plans were concrete, I missed my BPW sisters after our wonderful conference in Pennsylvania. As it happened, we had an extra backstage ticket for the entire weekend and I immediately thought of one member who adores live music AND was within 15 miles of the venue. Kathy Kelly and I found ourselves enjoying some great musicians together as we connected over the long weekend in Lyons, Colorado.  

We had so much fun connecting in person (outside of NFBPWC planned activities) and  we  likely drove my husband a little crazy talking about the ERA and women’s rights all weekend. We also enjoyed listening to powerful female vocalists like Brittany Howard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brittany_Howard) and Anais Mitchell (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ana%C3%AFs_Mitchell) both Grammy Award

 winners. The Rocky Mountain Folks Festival (https://bluegrass.com/folks) often highlights strong women and we were definitely  in our element. (Pictured Left: Brittany Howard – Our view from backstage)   

As I embrace the role of Immediate Past  President, I want to connect locally with more of our members during this term. My gratitude for the local, national, and international network of friends and colleagues that I have found over the past 18 years as a member of his incredible organization. I look forward to seeing the friendships and successes that will come from this term with our newly elected executive committee, all phenomenal women. 

Please continue to reach out to me personally or professionally as we continue to our work to make NFBPWC a better organization, because together we are stronger. 

Best Personal Wishes, 

Megan Shellman-Rickard 
NBPWC Immediate Past-President (2020-2024)

By: Nermin K. Ahmad
NFBPWC Secretary 2024-2026 

I am proud to serve the organization as Secretary. We are still completing the transition, which is taking its time during the summer holidays, and which will soon be completed.  

It was finally possible to take time for myself, and take part in adventures, such as horseback riding – which I have not done in decades. 

Ambling through a Gaillac Vineyard was a perfect way to restart the experience.  

Read more about these Adventures in the NYC submission!