I Have A Dream Ball Program 2024 by womeninfocus

2024

38TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP BALL & SILENT AUCTION • HONORING DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & BALL CHAIR

Good Evening!

Honored Guests, Sponsors, Students, Donors & Friends!

SHARYL KATO

PRESIDENT, WOMEN IN FOCUS, INC.

JODIE POPE

TERAN PETERSON

2024 WIF BALL CHAIR

2024 WIF BALL CO-CHAIR

WELCOME to the Women In Focus 38th Annual Dream Ball Celebration, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We are celebrating 38 years of WIF Scholarships, and this means that scholarship awards were given to 423 scholars since 1986! Thank you for attending the Ball, celebrating with us, enjoying being together and supporting WIF in our mission! In the face of increasing challenges to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the United States, supporting Women In Focus Inc. in our 38th year of awarding scholarships to students of color is not just a gesture; it's a crucial investment in the future. The data speaks volumes, with Women in Focus Inc having transformed the lives of 423 scholarship winners over nearly four decades, providing not only educational opportunities but also a powerful antidote to systemic injustices. Scholarships for scholars of color have proven to be instrumental in breaking down barriers and addressing historical disadvantages. By donating to or attending the Dream Ball (the best ball Madison has!), our Ball guests, donors, sponsors and supporters actively contribute to a more equitable society, counteracting the harm inflicted by past inequalities. Now, more than ever, we are called to rally behind initiatives that champion diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the promise of equal opportunities prevails

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over the shadows of discrimination. It is through collective support and heightened contributions that we can fortify the bridge to a brighter, more inclusive future for all. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said: “The time is always right to do what is right.” We encourage you all to enjoy dinner, the program and dancing, and also to rally to the WIF cause by bidding on our fabulous auction items, and/or donating on our website tonight! Here we are celebrating for a worthy cause! Your contributions will help deserving Dane County students of color attend college or tech school and these students will then give back to the community as educated professionals. To our guests, donors, sponsors and auction bidders, thank you so much for your help as we work together to actualize the dream! Now, please join us on the dance floor for the “Cupid’s Shuffle!” And please Save the Date for the 39th Annual Dream Ball on January 18, 2025! In community, Sharyl Kato, WIF President Jodie Pope, 2024 WIF Dream Ball Chair Teran Peterson, 2024 WIF Dream Ball Co-Chair

BALL PROGRAM

January 13, 2024 Wisconsin Masonic Center • Madison, WI

DINNER

HAPPy HOUr 6:00 - 7:00 pm

7:00-8:00 pm

Music Provided by DJ Corey Whitmore

PROGRAM

SILENT AUCtiOn

8:00-8:45 pm

6:00 - 9:30 pm

• Welcome by Sharyl Kato, WIF President

Bid high and bid often! Your bids help fund WIF Scholarships in 2024!

• Opening and Closing Remarks by Jodie Pope, WIF Ball Chair • Introduction of Featured Speaker by Jodie Pope, WIF Ball Chair

Bidding Closes at 9:30pm

• Featured Speaker: Taylor Kilgore, 2014 WIF Scholar • Presentation of 2024 “Inspiring the Dream” Award to UW Madison Department of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement (UW DDEEA) • Presentation of the Outstanding Dedication Award to Verona Morgan, WIF Secretary and Past President • Auction Updates by WIF Member Deana Wright

DANcING!

8:45-11:00 pm Music Provided by DJ Corey Whitmore

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SILENT AUCTION

Scholarship Silent Auction Join us for the fourth annual WIF Scholarship Silent Auction. This year’s auction is online, easy to attend and fun for all! The Silent Auction has wonderful, unique donated items. Please visit the auction site often and bid high! All auction proceeds will benefit the 2024 WIF Scholarship Fund.

BID HIGH! BID OFTEN! • gift certificates • gift baskets • massage • jewelry • original artwork and more! Scan to Register and Bid Now

Bidding closes January 13 at 9:30 pm

Women In Focus extends heartfelt thanks to those who have donated money and auction items! We are so gratified that all of you are stepping up to assist us this year, a year when we do need your help more than ever! Because of your generosity, we are on track to continue funding our college scholarship program for students of color this year!

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MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES • GUEST SPEAKER • PHOTOGRAPHER • PERFORMER

Mistress of Ceremonies

Guest Speaker

DEANA WRIGHT is a Radio/TV personality who has graced the airways on stations in Los Angeles, Detroit, Philadelphia, New York City and Madison in her decades-long broadcasting career. She has served as the Diversity and Inclusion Manager of NewBridge in Madison and now works at UW Madison School of Medicine and Public Health. In 2022, Deana narrated the documentary “Leaders of Madison’s Black Renaissance.” Deana is also a member of Women In Focus!

TAYLOR KILGORE (2014 WIF Scholarship recipient) Taylor Kilgore was born in Milwaukee, WI, but considers herself a Madison native since she was raised here from infancy. She graduated from La Follette High School in 2013. The first year of her college journey started at Edgewood College and ultimately she graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with a BA in Journalism. Her most recent joy has been becoming a new mommy to a beautiful baby girl in August 2023.

Photographer

She is currently the Social Media Implementation Specialist for TruStage (formerly CUNA Mutual Group). She grew up through Dane County’s all-Academic Youth Center, Simpson Street Free Press, where she went from student writer in 8th grade to Managing Editor through college. She remains a huge supporter as Editor Emeritus and a board member. She is also a proud board member of Isthmus Magazine. As the recipient of the very first Jan & Al Studesville WIF Scholarship for a continuing student, she is honored to be the speaker for the 2024 Dream Ball – an event that she's attended since high school.

KRYSTAL STANKOWSKI opened her Madison based business, Krystal Images Photography LLC in 2003. Krystal has been doing weddings and portraiture for 30+ years, specializing in business and family portraits, special events and some commercial work. Krystal says, "I enjoy capturing people as their best authentic selves – uniquely them. I can see it, I can feel it unfolding before my eyes and now I have a connection." She is a member of Wisconsin Professional Photographers Association, Inc. (WPPA). Krystal has been the WIF Ball photographer for many years and her photos are excellent!

360 Photo Booth THOMAS COLLINS is the owner of this business, which he started this year to continue his dream of being an entrepreneur and finishing college. Thomas says: "I specialize in capturing your special moments and help to make them into special memories. I want to help you have a good time and have videos to last a life time. Whether it is a birthday, anniversary, reunion, or any other celebration we are who you call if you want to have a great memorable time for years to come."

Performer COREY WHITMORE is an entrepreneur and music and media educator in Madison, WI. He owns and founded Media 22, a company that offers recording, podcasting, DJ, and music production services, and is home to a classic Hip-Hop/R&B internet radio station called Radio 22. With 20+ years of experience, Corey is a respected leader who previously managed WWMV-LP 95.5FM and owned an independent record label called Duce Duce Entertainment. He holds degrees in broadcasting/electronic communications, recording, and music technology. Corey's community impact includes teaching youth about audio recording, music production, and podcasting through collaborations with non-profits, community centers, and schools. In his spare time, he hosts two podcasts addressing the achievement gap (Pick Up The Mic) and financial literacy (Black Currency Podcast).

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SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Special recognition for Major Donations Two ways to make an impact! Donors can fund a fully paid scholarship. If desired, the scholarship can be awarded to a student entering a certain field of study or in the memory of a loved one. Or donors can contribute directly in any amount to the Women In Focus Scholarship Endowment Fund at the Madison Community Foundation. These contributions will help fund WIF scholarships in perpetuity.

For more info: www.womeninfocusmadison.org

Dr. William Listwan

donated a fully funded 2024 scholarship in honor of his late wife Marlene Listwan.

Exact Sciences

donated a fully funded 2024 scholarship to a student entering the sciences.

Susan Neely Denholm

made a significant donation, including sponsoring a 2024 Dream Ball table for WIF Scholars.

Fidelity Charitable Grant

was a significant addition to the 2024 Scholarship Fund.

Horizon Construction

donated a fully funded 2024 scholarship to a scholar entering the trades.

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WIF INSPIRING THE DREAM AWARD

Inspiring the Dream Award The Dream Keeper by Langston Hughes, 1925

Bring me all of your dreams, You dreamer, Bring me all your Heart melodies That I may wrap them In a blue cloud-cloth Away from the too-rough fingers of the world.

Women In Focus publicly recognizes the contributions of individuals and organizations who have significantly assisted in our mission to fund college scholarships for students of color from Dane County.

Women In Focus, Inc. is proud to bestow the WIF “Inspiring the Dream” Award to our long time partner, UW Madison Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DDEEA). DDEEA has consistently supported the WIF Scholarship Fund through sponsoring the Dream Ball. At the 38th Annual Dream Ball, DDEEA’s representative will receive a lovely award to commemorate this honor. Thank you DDEEA for your sustained support for WIF Scholarships. Your generosity and partnership has transformed the lives of WIF scholars!

he UW Madison Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement’s priority is to: increase access for underrepresented minorities in STEM; eliminate the achievement gap between majority and underrepresented students; recruit and retain a more diverse faculty and staff; prepare all our students, staff and faculty to thrive personally and professionally in a world that is diverse, global and interconnected; enhance the campus climate for inclusion. Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW–Madison. We value the contributions of each

person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. The University of Wisconsin–Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background – people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

For more information visit: diversity.wisc.edu

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2024 OUTSTANDING DEDICATION AWARD

Outstanding Dedication award The 2024 WIF Outstanding Dedication Award goes to founding member Verona Morgan

erona was a founding member of Women In Focus Inc. in 1983. She helped develop our WIF mission, encouraging Dane county students of color to continue their education. In 1984, Verona brought in and mentored emeritus WIF member Edith Hilliard. In the early days, WIF sought to empower new members to take on leadership roles, and then to use the skills they learned in their jobs or in volunteering for community organizations.

1985 WIF members. Seated Verona Morgan, Dannie Barnes and Brenda Brown. Standing left to right, Sandra Henderson, Edith Hilliard, Rose Ann Brown, Jeanie Lipcock, Virginia Henderson, Jan Studesville, Deborah Kemp, Gloria Jones Bey.

“A founding member of WIF in 1983, Verona brought me into the group in 1984. The goal was to bring in young women and mentor them to be active members of the community. It sure worked because I am still volunteering for six organizations today! Verona is a STELLAR woman of integrity. Her passion for lifting up others and exhibiting service is MONUMENTAL. I personally thank her for her continued example in WIF.” - Emeritus WIF member Edith Hilliard Verona married Julius Morgan and they raised their four daughters, Carolyn, Deidre, Adrienne, and Marion in Madison. Verona has always believed in higher education, and while a working mother, she went back to school, and then graduated summa cum laude from Edgewood College with a degree in business and psychology.

After returning to Madison, Verona continued to serve Women In Focus by continuous participation in the WIF literacy program, on the Dream Ball committee including chairing the Ball, on the WIF Scholarship committee and she also planned and hosted a number of WIF events. Verona also served on our executive committee for many years as Vice President, President and Secretary.

Professionally she was the first African American woman to oversee the management employment office at AT&T, formerly Wisconsin Telephone. She also served as a first manager of diversity and community relations at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. In 1985 Verona and Julius moved to Glendale, Wisconsin for their professional pursuits, and then returned to Madison and to WIF in 2010.

After her husband of over 65 years passed, Verona and her family established an endowment at the Madison Community Foundation to fund a college scholarship each year in perpetuity. Verona named Women In Focus to select the scholar. Through this endowment, Verona is helping students of color pursue higher education in the technology field.

Verona is the essence of WIF, passionate about our mission, and instrumental

in getting our good work done! Thank you, Verona, and congratulations on your well-deserved, outstanding dedication award! - Sally Hestad

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2024 OUTSTANDING DEDICATION AWARD

Verona

le -isms:

Notab

“Dress for the job you want, not the job you have!” “Fake it ‘til you make it!” “God doesn’t make junk!”

WIF members at the naming of Dr. Virginia Henderson Elementary School.

“Verona Morgan is a powerful, no-nonsense kind of woman. Also loving and very caring!” - Michelle Wray

Verona and Taylor Kilgore and Sally Hestad at presentation for 100+ Women who care, 2017. Mr. and Mrs. Mark Pent and Verona, Dream Ball 2020.

Verona, Steve Goldberg and Brenda Brown at the Dream Ball.

“Verona has always been a champion for her community. She co-founded Women In Focus with other women of color in management positions in Madison to assist and leave an amazing legacy in Dane County.

Verona and WIF Member Jackie Santana volunteering at the Salvation Army WIF Activity night in December, 2023.

Sally Hestad, Verona Morgan, Sharyl Kato and Kendra Gassner, Dream Ball 2023.

- Carolyn Morgan

“Verona continues to be a guidestar for our Women In Focus organization. Her leadership, recruitment skills and historic knowledge as a founding member is invaluable to the success of our organization. Her caring commitment is matched by the warmth and compassion for all of us as members and sisters in the mission. She is forever one-of-akind and I'm so honored to call her my friend.” - Michelle Heitzinger

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REMEMBERING CAROL LOBES

Hats off To carol lobes & Joe McClain The Inspiration for the WIF “Miss Annie Mae” Scholarships from 2007-2018

hen Joe McClain’s stepmother, Miss Annie Mae McClain, passed in Milwaukee, she left an amazing collection of designer church hats. The hats inspired WIF member Carol Lobes to honor her mother-in-law by displaying the hats at Olbrich Gardens, the Overture Center in Madison and the Milwaukee County Historical Society.

The hats inspired a beautiful display of the importance of church hats in the lives of Black women. After the tour was complete, Joe donated the hats to Women In Focus. WIF worked with Joe and Carol on an auction of the hats which was held at the Lussier Family Heritage Center. Proceeds of the auction were used to fund ”Miss Annie Mae” college scholarships for students of color. In subsequent years, Carol and other WIF members organized “Hats off in the Garden” events at Olbrich Gardens to replenish the fund for Miss Annie Mae Scholarships. Church hats were a big part of WIF’s identity after 2006, thanks to the hard work and vision of Carol Lobes and the generosity of Joe McClain. WIF awarded Miss Annie Mae scholarships from 2009-2018, scholarships which transformed the lives of the deserving recipients.

WIF worked with Joe and Carol on an auction of the hats which was held at the Lussier Family Heritage Center. Proceeds of the auction were used to fund ”Miss Annie Mae” college scholarships for students of color.

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Miss Annie Mae Scholars Tehera Hawkins - 2007 Nathaniel Pharmer-Eden - 2008 Tiffany Hodges - 2009 Ashley Saffold - 2009 Diane Small - 2010 Olinka Clark - 2011 Jordan Jodie Pope - 2012 Shawana James-Ragland - 2013 Miriam Paiz - 2014 Angeline Mboutngam - 2015 Selina Armento-Eleuterio - 2016 Mustafa Mohammed Saed - 2017 Shaquida Johnson - 2018

REMEMBERING CAROL LOBES

Sadly, Carol Ann Lobes, WIF member from 2004-2014, passed away on October 25, 2023. Carol was part of the second march for civil rights in Selma, led by Martin Luther King in 1965. This experience began her lifelong commitment to racial and social justice. She was a teacher, a community organizer and headed up several governmental agencies in her working career. She was a founding member of the Center for Democracy in Action. Carol was a spirited WIF member whose contributions to WIF have given her a prominent place in WIF’s history.

Thank you, Carol, and we miss you!

Tehera Hawkins receives the first Miss Annie Mae Scholarship from Joe McClain and Carol Lobes in 2007.

Joe McClain and Carol Lobes accept thank you flowers.

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SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Scholarship pROGRAM Since 1983, Women In Focus, Inc. has been an active force in the Madison community working on behalf of children and students of color. Each November the scholarship application is posted on our website. After applicants complete and submit their applications, the WIF scholarship Committee selects the recipients, taking into consideration academic achievements, school activities, financial need and community service. Women In Focus, Inc. is pleased to have been able to further the dreams of Dane County students for 38 years. In 2023, Women In Focus, Inc. was able to award 26 scholarships from donations and the proceeds of the 2023 Dream Ball and Auction. The amount awarded in 2023 was an awesome $65,000, thanks to the generosity of our WIF family of sponsors and donors!

2023 High School Scholars

2023 WIF Memorial Scholarships

Kadjata Bah

Sara Chennah's scholarship was given by The Kiwanis Club

Josepha Da Costa

Madison East in memory of the late Gene Sturdevant

Fatoumata Fofana

Maya Ivanova received the Kamrynn Thomas Memorial

Kennedy Gage

Scholarship, in honor of a young life which ended when

Melanny Gallardo

Kamrynn was only sixteen.

Yoanna Hoskins Alyssa Pillar Kellman Kiara Lewis Grace Nwankwo Serenity Reichenberger Julian Sanchez

in honor of his late wife, Marlene. Mawuenam Z. Dossa received the Julius Morgan Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Morgan Family Educational Endowment at the Madison Community Foundation.

Taylor Wang

Devin Jon Frank's scholarship is awarded in honor of the late

Zainab Yahiaoui

Miss Milele Chikasa Anana and was funded by Miss Milele’s

2023 Fully Funded Scholarships Valeria Carvajal Kaitlyn Chacon Thomas Tatus

Inspiring Founders Four-Year Scholarship Isaiah Mielke - In 2021, Isaiah received the Women In Focus Inspiring Founders Scholarship which lasts for four years.

Nitya Patil's scholarship was donated by Dr. Bill Listwan

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Scholarship Endowment at Madison Community Foundation.

2023 WIF Founding Member Memorial Scholarships Gueda Daff - Dr. Virginia Henderson Memorial Scholarship Mercedie Yang - Gloria Jones Bey Memorial Scholarship Mateo Jimenez - Rose Ann Brown Memorial Scholarship Monel Zarah Antut - Jan and Al Studesville Memorial Scholarship for a Continuing Scholar

RECIPIENT BIOGRAPHIES

Recipient Biographies These Women In Focus 2023 scholarships were awarded based on the students’ academic achievement and service to the community while in high school. Each of the awardees is now enrolled in college and continuing the path to success through education. WIF and the community are very proud of what these students have achieved.

2023 WIF Scholarships KADJATA BAH now attends Yale University. Kadjata graduated from Madison East High School last June, achieving excellent grades. Storytelling is significant to her family’s culture and Kadjata aspires to be a writer and an independent publisher. Kadjata is bilingual in English and Fula, a native West African language. Kadjata is a first generation college student. Kadjata has written for multiple local newspapers, such as the Eastside News and the Simpson Street Free Press. Kadjata hopes to pursue a degree in journalism with a minor in African Studies. One of Kadjata’s references stated: “Rarely, in nearly 20 years, have I mentored a young adult who was so calmly determined to make a difference. Kadjata wants to leave the world a little bit better than it was. She applies that not just to the whole of her life, but to the smaller pieces. She worked to improve her middle school. She worked to improve her high school. She worked to make our community center a better, more inclusive place.” JOSEPHA DA COSTA is now a freshman at UW Madison. She graduated from La Follette High School with excellent grades in AP classes. Josepha found voice as a journalist early and honed it at Simpson Street Free Press as a teen editor and staff writer. Josepha’s work was published in the Cap Times and the Wisconsin State Journal. Josepha was awarded the MLK Outstanding Young Person Award in 2017, 2022 and 2023. Josepha played varsity basketball and volleyball at La Follette HS, served as co-president of the Black Student Union and tutored Avid freshman. Josepha will pursue a degree in communications and journalism because of a belief that telling stories can change and help people, thus

bettering our communities and the world. One of Josepha’s references stated: “Josepha is a gifted young Black leader at La Follette. She has mastered the skill of multitasking on so many levels. Josepha is one of those students who just pulls at your heartstrings because of her kindness, character and passion for doing the right thing all the time. She is always grounded with humility and gratitude. She will raise the bar and do marvelous things after she graduates. She has the fortitude, wisdom and grit to achieve her wildest dreams.” FATOUMATA FOFANA now attends UW Milwaukee. She graduated last June from La Follette High School with excellent grades, after arriving in the USA in 2021. Fatoumata is from the Gambia and is fluent in Madinka and Wolof. Fatoumata joined the Islamic Club and HOSA, Future Health Professionals, a group which inspires members to become leaders in the global health community. Fatoumata worked at Walgreens for two years as a cashier. Interested in pursuing a degree in biochemistry, Fatoumata would then like to pursue medical school. Fatoumata is keenly aware of the lack of medical care available to women in the Gambia. One of her references stated: “Fatoumata challenged herself at La Follette with rigorous courses while mastering English. She has successfully navigated a new school system, and now is handling college applications on her own. Fatoumata is a strong self-advocate, a dedicated, kind and driven student. I am excited to see what her future holds because I know she has a very bright future ahead!” KENNEDY GAGE is currently a freshman at Madison College. Kennedy graduated from Monona Grove High School last June. Kennedy participated in the Black Student Union, tennis and weight lifting and also worked part time jobs during high school. continued...

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RECIPIENT BIOGRAPHIES

Kennedy has always been physically fit and, after participating in the NextGen Fire Academy, has the goal to become a firefighter. After obtaining an Associate’s Degree at Madison College, Kennedy plans to complete a four-year degree in Science and Homeland Security and Emergency Management. One of Kennedy’s references stated: “Academically, Kennedy puts an incredible amount of effort to do her best in every class. She has a curiosity for learning and a willingness to ask for help when she needs it. Kennedy is one of the most motivated students I know. With her empathy, willingness to help everyone and tenacious attitude, she is the perfect candidate for a Women In Focus Scholarship.” MELANNY GALLARDO currently attends Madison College. Melanny graduated from La Follette High School last June. Melanny maintained a part time job and participated in the AVID college prep program for all four years during high school. After a very sad time due to the loss of her father, Melanny found an escape in music, especially a Kpop band called BTS. Melanny started a Kpop Club at La Follette HS. Melanny now has a goal to enter law enforcement, specifically to become an FBI agent to help crime victims. One of Melanny’s references stated: “Melanny has incredible interpersonal skills. She exudes kindness, passion and responsibility in addition to being a hard-working and intelligent individual. She has the ability to maintain high academic standards while also being able to develop interests and connections within her community. I have no doubt that Melanny will continue to thrive as she continues her education and pursues her passions in life.” YOANNA HOSKINS is now a freshman at Stanford University in CA. Yoanna graduated from La Follette High School with a perfect GPA and multiple AP classes. Tri-lingual in English, Spanish and Bulgarian, Yoanna was a teen editor and staff writer at Simpson Street Free Press. During the pandemic, Yoanna documented the issues students were grappling with, and presented this work to her school administration. Then Yoanna ran for and won the position of Student Representative for the Madison Schools’ Board of Education for the 22-23 school year. Yoanna was very concerned with inequities in education, both in the USA and all over the world. At

Stanford, Yoanna plans to pursue political science and eventually a law degree. One of Yoanna’s references said: “Yoanna is one of the most talented students I have ever worked with in my ten-year teaching career. Her academic skills will allow her to excel at any university and she has proven to be not only one of our school’s strongest student leaders, but a changemaker within our community, someone who will be a tremendous asset to whatever school she chooses to attend. Yoanna is a remarkable young woman and I feel incredibly lucky as a teacher to have had the chance to work with her.” ALYSSA PILLAR KELLMAN is currently a freshman at the University of Chicago. Alyssa graduated from Oregon High School last June with excellent grades and taking multiple AP classes. Alyssa was on Student Council for all four years at Oregon High School, participating in nine different Student Council projects. Alyssa started the Latinx Student Union at OHS. In junior year, Alyssa worked for racial equity on the Board of the Village of Oregon’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Alyssa plans to major in political science in college, minoring in Spanish, and then to continue to law school. Alyssa’s reference stated: “Social justice and equity are two of Alyssa’s passions and she is committed to implementing change and awareness in the community. Her time management skills are impressive as she participates and leads several clubs, volunteers and works, all while maintaining her high GPA. Alyssa is a motivated and compassionate young woman, a young woman who is already accomplished with a vast potential for growth.” KIARA LEWIS is now attending Grambling State University. Kiara graduated from West High School. During high school, Kiara worked at Dunkin’ Donuts, played basketball and volunteered at Briar Patch Youth Services. Kiara is interested in studying psychology, after experiencing the current lack of qualified mental health professionals of color. Kiara wants to offer mental health services to the community. One of Kiara’s references stated: “Kiara is someone with a strong sense of social justice and responsibility for her community. She values education as a means of being the change that she wishes to see in the world. Kiara is someone that her peers can count on to promote equity of voice and participation.” continued...

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RECIPIENT BIOGRAPHIES

GRACE NWANKWO is now a freshman at UW Madison. Grace graduated from Edgewood High School with an excellent GPA. Grace’s goal is to study Biochemistry and become a doctor. In high school, Grace was a member of National Honor Society, Vice President of Student Council, founder of BIPOC Club, Student Representative of Incoming and Transfer Students, and American Legion Badger Girls State Governor. Grace achieved 740 hours of community service, received the Urban League of Madison’s Outstanding Young Person Award; Tony Evers’ Proclamation in her honor; and was named a Nigerian Embassy 2022 Honor Representative. One of Grace’s references said: “I recently had Grace lead students as the founder of the school's first ever BIPOC Club. This year during Black History Month Grace coordinated a bake sale that raised money for the local MakeAWish Foundation and hosted a seminar with food, music, and a speaker from the Madison area. She is finishing up a career as a two-year member of the LINK Crew, North American student leadership program with a focus is on making select individuals’ leaders and mentors.

JULIAN SANCHEZ now attends the Culinary Institute of America. He graduated from La Follette High School with top grades. Julian has always been around food and loves cooking. In addition to high school, Julian worked at Goodman Community Center in the Teenworks Program. Julian’s favorite job at Goodman was in catering. Julian has a goal to become a renowned chef and to promote sustainability and healthy eating. Julian also wants to use culinary skills to give back to the community. One of Julian’s references said: “Julian is a pleasure to work with. He is reliable and has excellent initiative. He is the first person to volunteer when a job needs to be done, and he leads by example, serving as a role model and excellent mentor for other teens in the program. Julian started a Cooking Club for middle school students at Goodman which has become very popular. Julian always meets deadlines and submits very high-quality work. Julian’s combination of maturity and personality make me confident that he will rise to any challenge put in front of him. I know he will make good use of the opportunities afforded to him by the scholarship.”

SERENITY REICHENBERGER currently attends Madison College. Serenity graduated from La Follette High School last June. Serenity plans to study Elementary Education and become a teacher, especially because of the fact that Serenity never had a teacher in her 12 years of school who was diverse. Serenity worked as a Teen Money Mentor Ambassador at CEOs of Tomorrow, and as an Intern teller at Summit Credit Union. Serenity was a mentor for freshmen at La Follette HS and participated in AVID. Three years ago, the pandemic period presented academic challenges, but Serenity bounced back and improved her grades, earning a 4.0 GPA over the last three semesters. One of her references said: “She is a fantastic student, person and leader who is passionate about her academics, becoming a well-rounded person and committed to her community. She has grown and taken on new responsibilities at home and at school where she served on various committees to improve school and classroom culture. She accomplished her goals with honesty, integrity and humility. She exudes positivity, love and discipline and will make a great college student and alumna!”

TAYLOR WANG is now a freshman at Columbia University in NYC. Taylor graduated from Vel Phillips Memorial High School with a perfect grade point average. Taylor received a scholarship to study in Madrid in 10th grade and another to attend the Cambridge Tradition program in 11th grade. Taylor was dual enrolled at Madison College for junior and senior years. Since first grade, Taylor has participated in community-based soccer programs and now is a youth volunteer coach. Taylor plans to study chemistry and engineering in college. One of Taylor’s references said: “Taylor was an excellent student at Madison College as part of the STEM Academy, taking 19 credits and maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. Most college students are not capable of balancing this workload, but Taylor is extraordinary, one of the best students I have had in my ten-year career. Overall, Taylor possesses the academic skill and ambition to excel in college and I strongly recommend him.

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RECIPIENT BIOGRAPHIES

ZAINAB YAHIAOUI is now a freshman at UW Madison. Zainab graduated from La Follette High School with excellent grades in June of 2023. Zainab has always loved technology and as a junior was dual enrolled at Madison College through the STEM Academy. Zainab challenged herself with difficult classes like calculus and science courses with three-hour labs. Despite the challenging class schedule, Zainab also held down part time jobs during high school to help her family. Zainab graduated with an Associate’s Degree from Madison College in May of 2023 and is studying computer engineering at UW Madison. One of Zainab’s references stated: “I highly recommend Zainab to be considered for the WIF scholarship. She brings a unique perspective as a young multicultural woman from a low-income household. She has a high level of intrinsic motivation and actively seeks out opportunities to grow and learn.”

2023 Fully Funded Scholarships VALERIA CARVAJAL is currently attending Madison College. Valeria graduated from Vel Phillips Memorial High School with excellent grades. Valeria has been a member of the Avid TOPS college preparatory program and Latinos Unidos, balancing these with helping her family at home. Inspired by the dressmaking skills of an aunt and a grandmother, Valeria learned how to make eye catching fashion renderings which were appreciated by her art teacher. Valeria plans to major in Textiles and Fashion Design. One of Valeria’s references stated: “Valeria is an outstanding student with many strengths. She is incredibly motivated to challenge herself in learning. She takes great care and pride in her work and has demonstrated an incredible amount of academic resilience when faced with challenges. She is a leader in the Avid class. She consistently takes great responsibility and goes beyond our expectations. Her maturity and positive demeanor go a long way in setting the tone in our class.” Valeria’s scholarship was fully funded by CUNA Mutual, now know as TruStage, a long time supporter of the Women In Focus Scholarship Program.

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KAITLYN CHACON is now a freshman at UW Madison. She graduated from LaFollette High School in June with stellar grades. Kaitlyn has been taking classes at Madison College while in high school and will receive her Associate’s Degree in May. Kaitlyn has a goal to earn a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and then to enter medical school to become a general surgeon. One of Kaitlyn’s references said: “Kaitlyn is tenacious: if she believes she can accomplish something, she’ll pursue it. She attends to her extracurricular work and advanced classes with great focus and drive, and she accomplishes her duties with a beautiful attitude and a smile. I have no doubt in my mind that wherever Kaitlyn goes, she will be a catalyst for change.” Kaitlyn’s scholarship was fully funded by Scott and Shari Frank of Oak Park Place. The Franks are interested in encouraging scholars of color to enter the medical field. Oak Park Place has been a very generous supporter of the WIF Scholarship Fund. THOMAS TATUS is currently a freshman at UW Madison. Thomas graduated from La Follette High School. Thomas was admitted into UW-Madison to study Business and Finance. Thomas wants to start a business in personal finance. Thomas has been involved in a local youth financial literacy club since seventh grade and in the Millionaire’s Club (CLIMB USA), winning multiple finance-based competitions. One of Thomas’s references stated: “It has been a pleasure getting to know and work with Thomas. He is highly reliable and hard-working and has excellent problem-solving and communication skills...It is so rare to meet a high school student who is mature, well-organized, and result-oriented like Thomas.” Thomas’s WIF scholarship was fully funded by Annex Charitable Foundation, a new generous sponsor for the WIF Scholarship Fund. Annex’s scholarship is awarded to a student entering the field of finance.

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2023 Memorial Scholarships SARA CHENNAH is now attending UW Madison. Sara graduated from La Follette High School earning excellent grades and taking AP classes. A first-generation college student fluent in Arabic, Sara had to quickly learn American English when arriving in Madison from Morocco. Helping others through biomedical engineering is Sara’s field of interest. One of Sara’s counselors stated: “Sara stands out. She is a strong self-advocate. She is hardworking, focused and motivated. I am excited to learn what her future holds because I know she will do something amazing.” Sara’s scholarship was given by The Kiwanis Club Madison East in memory of the late Gene Sturdevant. Gene was a long-time member of the Kiwanis Club Madison East, a club which has been a sponsor of the WIF Scholarship program for many years. MAYA IVANOVA is now attending UW Madison. Last June, Maya graduated from East High School with very good grades and multiple AP classes. During high school, Maya tutored Tibetan elementary and middle school students at the Wisconsin Tibetan Language and Culture School. Maya clerked at Willy Street Coop and enjoyed performing on the guitar, singing, dancing and song writing. Maya is the child of Buddhist immigrant parents who revered life, even the lives of insects and bees. They inspired Maya’s interest in studying Environmental Sociology and tackling the problems of air and water pollution and the effects of greenhouse gasses in Madison and also the effects of climate crisis and floods in Tibet and around the world. One of Maya’s references said: “Maya exhibits strong self-awareness and an uncommon level of maturity, balancing a challenging class schedule with her work, family and community commitments. She is unfailingly kind and empathetic, always treating those around her with respect and compassion. Maya is the sort of student I can always count on to help out and I can trust to do

the right thing. Overall, she is a kind, intelligent, thoughtful young person and I have no doubts that she will excel at absolutely any path she decides to pursue. Maya is among the most deserving for your scholarship and I truly have nothing but absolutely wonderful things to say about her.” Maya received the Kamrynn Thomas Memorial Scholarship, in honor of a young life which ended when Kamrynn was only sixteen. Kamrynn, a junior at Madison Country Day School, tragically passed as a result of a pulmonary embolism. This scholarship was funded in Kamrynn’s honor by her friends, the Frazer family. NITYA PATIL currently attends Georgia Institute of Technology. Nitya graduated from Vel Phillips Memorial High School last June, earning stellar grades. During high school, Nitya started a non-profit called Bleed Shamelessly, which distributed menstrual supplies to poor women, a non-profit which was operated out of Nitya’s garage. Nitya advocated for Rape Crisis Center and interned in a UW lab focused on ovarian cancer. Nitya founded the Red Cross Club at Vel Phillips Memorial HS. Nitya was a member of the varsity cross country club and the National Honor Society as well as starting her own math tutoring business. Nitya plans to study biomedical engineering in college to prepare to do cancer research. One of Nitya’s references said: “Nitya is someone who enjoys learning for learning’s sake. She is one of my most memorable and admired students. Nitya is passionate, driven and positive who deserves every opportunity to succeed.” Nitya is receiving her scholarship in memory of the late Marlene Listwan. The scholarship was donated by Marlene’s husband Dr. Bill Listwan, one of WIF’s generous supporters for the past few years. MAWUENAM Z. DOSSA (MAW) currently attends UW Madison. Maw graduated from Middleton High School, earning top grades. Maw took multiple AP classes and played trombone in the marching and jazz bands. Maw interned at Exact Sciences and participated in the Model United Nations Club at Middleton HS. Maw plans to major in Chemistry or Nuclear Science at UW Madison. One of Maw’s references stated: “Maw is easily in the continued...

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top 5% of students I have encountered as a math and computer science teacher over the past 26 years. Maw is a brilliant, hardworking, conscientious and kind leader who welcomes challenges, is a strong team player, has a genuine curiosity and an extraordinary amount of focus and tenacity. I am confident that he will succeed in whatever path he chooses.” Maw is receiving the Julius Morgan Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Morgan Family Educational Endowment at the Madison Community Foundation. The late Julius Morgan was a proud veteran of the US Air Force. His career included work for the State Department of Industry, Labor and Human Relations, Dane County, Madison Gas & Electric, and Milwaukee Area Technical College/Milwaukee Enterprise Center, where he retired as its first Director. In his retirement, Julius relocated to Madison where he faithfully attended many Dream Balls and other WIF events. He passionately believed in education for youth of color. DEVIN JON FRANK attends North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. Devin graduated from Sun Prairie West High School. Devin earned excellent grades and was the recipient of four BEAM awards. Participation in CEOs of Tomorrow gave Devin entrepreneurship and financial skills. Devin is pursuing a business entrepreneurship degree at North Carolina Central University. One of Devin’s references stated: “Devin is a highly intelligent, empathetic and perceptive young man, an active listener, reflective, analytical, dedicated and passionate – a pleasure to work with! I can always depend on Devin to set the best example. My fellow teachers and I hold him in the highest esteem.” Devin’s scholarship is awarded in honor of the late Miss Milele Chikasa Anana and was funded by Miss Milele’s Scholarship Endowment at Madison Community Foundation. Miss Milele was the publisher and editor of Umoja Magazine from 1990 until her passing in 2020. She chose her own name which means rare and sparkling jewel. She was a tireless voice of Good News for the community and her magazine was full of inspiration. The Milele Chikasa Anana Scholarship Endowment funded this memorial scholarship.

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2023 Founding Member Memorial Scholarships DR. VIRGINIA HENDERSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP GUEDA DAFF attends UW Madison. Gueda graduated from Madison East High School where Gueda achieved an excellent GPA. Gueda was president of the Black Student Union, French Class secretary, a member of the Student Council and played on the Girls Varsity Basketball Team. Gueda’s goal is to attend college, major in education and become a teacher. One of Gueda’s references said: “Gueda Daff is one of the most impressive students I have had the pleasure to teach. Her gifts are manifold, she is wicked smart, she has a very strong work ethic, she is very creative, both with her art and her writing, she has leadership skills beyond her years, and she is a talented and tenacious athlete”. Dr. Henderson was a founding member of Women In Focus, a school psychologist and an advisor on educational equity to the Madison Public Schools. Recently, Glendale Elementary School was renamed Dr. Virginia Henderson Memorial Elementary School in Virginia’s honor.

GLORIA JONES BEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP MERCEDIE YANG attends Madison College. Mercedie graduated from Verona High School with excellent grades. Mercedie participated in multiple school clubs and in addition held down a part time job and still found time to help her family. Mercedie desires to help people by entering the medical profession, perhaps as a traveling nurse. Mercedie wants to be a role model in school to inspire her siblings and wants to succeed to be able to help her mother. One of Mercedie’s references said: “Mercedie is a hard-working individual. She shows compassion and respect for everyone around her. She has taken advantage of opportunities to push herself and step out of her comfort zone. Mercedie’s drive to succeed, and outstanding work ethic will serve her well in college and beyond. Mercedie will be an asset to any educational community.” continued...

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Gloria was a founding member of Women In Focus back in 1983. Gloria told the WIF members that we must never forget our mission to encourage minority youth to succeed in education! Gloria was the Vice president of Nursing at Meriter Hospital for many years and after that she taught at Edgewood College and Madison College. She would be very proud of the achievements of all of our scholars!

ROSE ANN BROWN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP MATEO JIMENEZ is now a freshman at UW Madison. Mateo graduated in June from Edgewood High School with stellar grades and multiple AP classes. In high school Mateo played competitive basketball and was senior captain of the varsity team. Mateo’s dad’s successful real estate business with the Hispanic community inspired Mateo to study business and real estate in college. In the summers, Mateo works for his dad’s property management company and is learning about the housing market in Madison, tenant relations and maintenance issues. One of Mateo’s references stated: “Mateo is an excellent student who displays outstanding leadership qualities. He is organized and motivated, and he gets his work done on time. He asks insightful questions and assists fellow students to work through the material. He works hard to improve when challenged. I give Mateo my highest recommendation!” Rose Ann was a founding member of Women In Focus. She was a very successful professional working in a local bank, and she was a most gracious lady. Rose Ann was dedicated to the WIF mission to encourage minority youth to succeed in education.

READ MORE ABOUT WIF FOUNDING MEMBER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS AT :

www.womeninfocusmadison.org

JAN & AL STUDESVILLE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP MONEL ZARAH ANTUT, formerly known as Shamell Long Homesly, currently attends UW Madison. Monel graduated in May from the Odyssey program at UW Madison. In 2020, Monel started a first business called Beau Noir, a hair locks salon. Monel is interested in studying business/real estate to create a wellness retreat to help others heal. One of Monel’s references said: “Monel is intelligent, tenacious and committed to pursuing her education, committed to obtaining her undergraduate degree and committed to being successful for herself, her family and her community.” Jan Studesville was a Women In Focus member from the very early days of the WIF organization. She and her husband Al were tragically taken from us in 2013 as a result of a truck vs motorcycle accident. Jan and Al were retirement entrepreneurs who created and operated the salon “Just Nails.”

Inspiring Founders Four Year Scholarship ISAIAH MIELKE currently attends Edgewood College. In 2021, Isaiah received the Women In Focus Inspiring Founders Scholarship which lasts for four years. Next fall Isaiah will receive the fourth installment of this award. In 2021, Women In Focus, Inc. realized a dream of funding a fouryear scholarship for one scholar, to be paid at the start of each academic year of his or her four-year college degree. We named it the Inspiring Founders Scholarship, because WIF members are inspired every day by the vision and tenacity of our Founding Members as they worked to advance WIF's mission to encourage students of color to further their education.

WIF Scholarship applications for 2024 are currently available at

www.womeninfocusmadison.org

Completed applications are due February 15, 2024.

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ABOUT WOMEN IN FOCUS, INC.

ABOUT WOMEN IN Focus, INC. Formed in 1983 Women In Focus, Inc. (WIF) is a group of about 30 energetic professional women in Madison, Wisconsin. For over thirtynine years our members have been dedicated to the mission of creating a community in which dreams are fulfilled through a worldwide partnership where all barriers to education are erased for students of color. Every year we raise funds to provide college scholarships to both high school students and non-traditional students by hosting our annual Scholarship Dream Ball, honoring the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. To date we have granted over 423 scholarships for a total in excess of $500,000.00. Women In Focus, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

In 2011, WIF opened its Scholarship Endowment Fund at the Madison Community Foundation. We are now focused on growing this permanent fund so that we can continue to provide scholarships for students of color into the future. Through our Literacy Project, WIF members encourage families to read and we distribute books to children in the community. We are currently helping families at the Salvation Army shelter with books and activities. Our literacy program is supported through donations, grants and partnerships with other community organizations.

2023-24 Women In Focus, Inc. Members

www.womeninfocusmadison.com

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2023-2024 MEMBERSHIP

2023-2024

Membership OFFICERS: President, Sharyl Kato

2024 BALL & AUCTION COMMITTEE

Secretary, Verona Morgan

A special thanks to the hard working 2024 Ball Committee:

Treasurer Kendra Gassner

Teran Peterson

Vice-President, Carolyn Morgan

MEMBERS: Nancy Wrenn Bauch Shiva Bidar-Sielaff Yvette Craig Heather Crowley Kendra Gassner Gail Groy Fabiola Hamdan

Gail Groy Jodie Pope Williams Michelle Wray Verona Morgan Sharyl Kato Anne Lom Fabiola Hamdan Sally Hestad

Michelle Heitzinger

Kendra Gassner

Sheryl Henderson

Rhoda McKinney

Sally Hestad Edith Hilliard, Emeritus Tashekia Jones Sharyl Kato Anne Lom Marsann McCants Rhoda McKinney Annette Miller Monica Mims Carolyn Morgan

AFFILIATE MEMBERS Portia Adney Ramona Natera

FRIENDS OF WOMEN IN FOCUS Lynn Brown Treater Prestine Tina Murray

Verona Morgan Teran Peterson Jodie Pope Jenny Pressman Gloria Reyes Jacqueline Santana Nicole Soulier Tamera Stanley Michelle Wray Deana Wright

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2023 YEAR IN REVIEW

Women in Focus, Inc.

2023 Year in review • 37th Annual “I Have a Dream” Ball – Under the leadership of our 2022-2024 WIF President, Sharyl Kato and our 2023 Ball Chair Jodie Pope, we were thrilled to welcome over 400 guests in person for our 37th Annual “I Have a Dream” Ball and our 3rd Annual Scholarship Auction in January, 2023. We welcomed new sponsors United Way, American Family Dreambank, EQT by Design and Kendra Gassner, Hair and Makeup Artistry to the WIF family of financial supporters. • 2023 was a banner year for our WIF Scholarship Fund. We received fully funded scholarships from CUNA Mutual, now known as TruStage, Kiwanis Club East in memory of Gene Sturdevant, Annex Charitable Foundation, the Julius Morgan and Verona Morgan Scholarship Endowment, the Milele Chikasa Anana Scholarship Endowment, the Frazer Family in memory of Kamrynn Thompson, Dr. William Listwan in memory of his late wife Marlene and Oak Park Place. These generous donations of scholarships in addition to Ball and Auction revenue allowed us to fund 26 scholarships in 2023, the most ever in one year! • Reviewing the applications – In March of 2023, the WIF Scholarship Committee met to review the applications for scholarships from about 60 applicants. This is an uplifting and at the same time heartbreaking task because we wish we had the funds to award scholarships to all our applicants!

• Scholarship Reception – In April of 2023, we held our Scholarship Reception honoring the 26 WIF scholars and their families. This took place at the Goodman Center and is the highlight of our Women In Focus year! It was a fabulous opportunity to hear from the scholars who each gave a twominute speech about their educational journeys. The scholarship checks were cut in August and September and our scholars are now attending college! Please read more about our scholarship recipients in this Ball Program. • Tech school applicants added – In 2024, we are looking for scholarship applicants who plan to attend college but also applicants who plan to attend tech schools after high school. Please encourage Dane County high school seniors of color to visit the website www.womeninfocusmadison.org and fill out the application. The deadline to submit materials is February 15, 2024. • New Partnership for Literacy – WIF’s Literacy program has a new partnership with the Salvation Army of Dane County. WIF members volunteer for activity nights at the family shelter once a month, where the kids are provided a craft activity, snacks and new books each month. In addition, WIF gave out new books at Juneteenth, the Urban League of Madison’s Unity Picnic, the Sun Prairie Neighborhood Navigators summer camp and other summer events. This program is funded by grants from the Cap Times Kid’s Fund and the Madison Rotary.

We are now fundraising for our 2024 Scholarship Fund! With the wonderful community support that our guests, grantors, sponsors, auction bidders and donors have shown, Women in Focus, Inc. is empowered to continue our work in 2024 and beyond. Thank you! Your help makes a crucial difference for students of color in Madison! 22

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WAYS TO DONATE

Ways to Donate The number of scholarships that Women In Focus can award each year depends on how much money we receive in sponsorships, donations and auction bids. We are so thankful to everyone who supported our 2024 Scholarship Campaign, the 4th Annual Auction and the 38th Annual Dream Ball! We could not do this work without your generosity!

There are many ways you can donate to Women In Focus’ Scholarships. Text “Donate” to 608-420-6008 on your phone and follow the prompts.

Charge your donation on the website www.womeninfocusmadison.org (Donate tab)

Send a check or money order payable to Women In Focus, Inc. in any amount. Mail to WIF, PO Box 44013, Madison, WI 53744

Donate from your IRA Required Minimum Distribution. Direct your financial advisor to send a check directly to Women In Focus, Inc. from your RMD amount and you will receive a tax benefit.

Make Women In Focus, Inc. a beneficiary in your will.

You can also donate to the Women in Focus Scholarship Endowment at Madison Community Foundation. This fund is permanent and will produce scholarship funding in perpetuity. Donate at https://www.madisongives.org/womeninfocus

Questions? Contact us at info@womeninfocusmadison.org. 38TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP DREAM BALL