Festive Celebrations & Community Outreach Mark JLC's Holiday Party

BY EMILY BAKES, ASSISTANT EDITOR

The Junior League of Cincinnati celebrated this year’s holiday season in style at The Spot on West Fifth on Wednesday, December 6. The event was organized by the Membership Engagement Committee, led by Chair, Samantha Markle and Vice Chair, Dani Rodriguez, and brought together JLC members from all levels of membership, including New Members, Actives, Transfers, and Sustainers. The festive gathering also welcomed a handful of guests, including significant others, friends and potential New Members.

The evening kicked off with a delightful dinner, setting the stage for a memorable celebration. Attendees were given a chance to win an exciting array of raffle prizes and a unique wine pull, adding an element of anticipation to the festivities. Generously donated by local Cincinnati small businesses, the raffle prizes added a touch of community support to the event.

Adding a dash of creativity to the celebration, the JLC organized a themed dress contest with three categories: Glitter, Holiday Furs, and Evergreens. Members showcased their festive spirit, contributing to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the party. One special winner of the Evergreen Category, Megan McMullen, was wearing the same outfit her grandmother wore for one of her Junior League of Lansing holiday parties when she was an Active member, and shared that she will never forget the joy on her face when she FaceTimed her to share the exciting news!

Beyond the festivities, the JLC demonstrated its commitment to community outreach. This year, the organization collected feminine hygiene products, which were donated to our key community partner, Family Nurturing Center. This initiative reflected JLC’s ongoing partnership and its dedication to making a positive impact in the local community.

Amidst the celebration, the Nominating Chair, Byrd Bergeron, and Vice Chair, Meg Anacker, took the stage to announce the slate for Board and EMT positions, as well as the future Nominating committee. This moment highlighted the organization’s commitment to transparent leadership transitions and fostering a culture of involvement among its members.

The incoming 2024-2025 Leadership Slate includes:

• President-Elect: Katie Dulle

• Executive Vice President-Elect: Mary Taliaferro

• Board Member at Large: Tara Mosley

• Board Secretary: Sam Zehnder

• Strategic Planning Director: Erica Bock

• VP of Communications: Elizabeth Desrosiers

• VP of Finance: Lauren Krebs

• VP of Membership: Katie Arendt

• DEI&B Vice Chair: Endia Crabtree

• Nominating Vice Chair: Erika Lundstedt

• Nominating Committee: Lisa Dye (Sustainer), Nichole Clarke, Taylor DeWald, Amy Jo Jones, Sara Kemerer, Sam Markle, Erica Roig and Katie Ziegler

Leslie Touassi, Chair of Program Development, provided an update on the request for proposal (RFP) process seeking our next community partner. Twenty-seven local organizations submitted applications during round one and five were selected to move on to round two. These organizations include: Bethany House Services, HER Cincinnati, Level Up Cincinnati, The Community Builders, and YWCA Greater Cincinnati. This list demonstrates the JLC’s dedication to supporting and collaborating with community organizations through its programs.

In summary, the JLC’s holiday party was more than just a festive gathering; it was a reflection of the organization’s values, community engagement, and commitment to fostering a strong and supportive network. As the year drew to a close, the Junior League of Cincinnati embraced the spirit of giving, celebration, and shared purpose.