"Change" is a word we've heard a lot lately and are bound to hear more of in the near future. Change is neither good nor bad. However, the organizations that embrace change when it's needed will be the ones that remain the most relevant over time.
At its inception in 1970, the Women's Council's primary mission was to increase participation of women in all activities of the University of Tennessee and the UT Alumni Association and to identify leadership for chapter positions, Board of Governors, and the role of UTAA president. The council also served in an advisory capacity for educational programs and events, which is the hallmark of our success over the past decade and even longer.
Over the course of 38 years, the UTAA Women's Council has enjoyed much success. Hundreds of women hold leadership positions within the university and the alumni association, and nine Women's Council members have served as UT Alumni Association president since the council was founded. We've come a long way!
Therefore, in late 2007, the council examined its history and its future. In order to remain a viable program, the current council had to ask itself: What can this group do to support the goals of the university and the alumni association while preserving the tradition of the Women's Council?
The current council evaluated the Women's Council's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. After this extensive evaluation, a consensus was reached on the following revised mission statement:
The University of Tennessee Alumni Association Women's Council educates, supports, advances, and engages women leaders through relevant programs and activities.
Moving forward, the Women's Council will maintain its legacy by focusing on developing present and future female leaders. In support of the UTAA's mission, the council will focus its efforts on engaging its alumnae by exploring and implementing new initiatives. The Women's Council will continue to maintain traditions such as The Patricia Pinckley Johnson Leadership Seminar and Women's Council Reunion, the Annual Social Retreat for past and present members, and occasional guest speaker presentations. And we hope to add new traditions as well!
We are excited to share the new initiatives that support the revised mission in this newsletter. We hope that you share our commitment to the UTAA and the University of Tennessee in furthering their missions. Most importantly, we welcome your ideas and feedback as we look to the future of the Women's Council.
Jennifer Holder
'89, '91 UT-Knoxville
2008-2009 Women's Council Chair
