Twelve Scholars To Be Honored By AAUW At Dress For Success Luncheon

By Beverly Byrd

Dress For Success Scholar Luncheon - February 18, 2023!

“Dress For Success” is the theme for the 2023 annual Scholar Luncheon sponsored by the East Mesa Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) in coordination with the Phoenix Chapter of Dress For Success. The Luncheon will be held on Saturday, February 18, at Rec. 1 Ballroom.

Due to the generosity of Violet Larney, Educator, and former Leisure World Resident, the East Mesa Branch is able to partially fund twelve women scholars who are working to earn two-year or four-year college degrees and for several of the women to then pursue a graduate-level program. Violet Larney, founder, and first President of the East Mesa Branch of the AAUW, was also known as a funder of many of the improvements to Leisure World’s Recreation Building

2. Her bequest to the Branch is specifically earmarked for women’s education and scholarship activities.

The Scholar Luncheon is an annual event to celebrate the AAUW scholars’ accomplishments and to recognize the hard work required to achieve these college degrees. The scholars come from many walks of life, ranging from new high school graduates to women and mothers who want to further their education to better provide for their families and support the community. Their majors range from nursing and public policy to special education and architecture.

The program for the Luncheon will feature the scholars modeling outfits designed to provide the professional appearance they desire for job interviews and work. The Phoenix Branch of “Dress For Success” will provide a brief presentation as well as provide the clothes the scholars will model.

This event is open to all Leisure World residents and anyone outside Leisure World. This event will be a great opportunity for daughters, granddaughters, and grandmothers to co-mingle with exceptional women scholars. Branch Scholarship Committee members will be available to provide information about the scholarship program, how to apply, and the selection process.

While the East Mesa Branch of AAUW meets in Leisure World, with many of its members Leisure World residents, the branch is open to all women college graduates with either a 2-year or a 4-year degree.

Tickets to the luncheon are available at the Leisure World Recreation Office for $35 per person which includes the “Dress For Success” presentation and lunch.

Save the date - Saturday, February 18 starting at 10:00 am.

For more information, please contact Judy Shahenian at 480-459-0455.