Staff Writer
National Women’s History Month is observed in March, but when it comes to women and business, one local organization celebrates year-round.
In 1978, State Sen. Elizabeth Castor sent Pat Ashworth, Rosanne Hartwell and Edna Saffy a letter in response to then-recent “media coverage of women’s causes and events (that) have left our sex with a somewhat confused, even negative public image.” In response, Castor was looking for female leaders in the state to create an organization to address issues that concerned women.
The Jacksonville Women’s Network was founded shortly after and celebrated its 30th anniversary in October.
“It’s all about networking,” said Ellen Siler, Hubbard House CEO and a network member since 2000. “Historically, women haven’t had the same networking organizations as men and this is a wonderful organization that helps connect women from all varieties of businesses.”
President Betty Asque Davis said the organization has almost 400 members. It meets monthly for networking events.
Members represent many professional categories, including law, media, academics, nonprofits, real estate, arts, business, clergy, government, healthcare, sports, nonprofits and real estate.
“We have just about everything,” said Asque Davis, a real estate agent, newspaper columnist and retired social services administrator.
Membership offers women the opportunity to expand their circle of influence and generate support that could improve their business endeavors.
“Everything I have done professionally has been enriched because of my membership with the Jacksonville Women’s Network,” Asque Davis said.
In addition to meetings, members are able to join the monthly “Luncheon Ladder,” which randomly assigns four members to meet at their convenience, whether at lunch, breakfast, coffee or dinner. The ladder helps members meet some of their peers on a more exclusive level instead of simply mingling during a reception.
Network membership is invitation-only. Potential members who exhibit leadership qualities in their respective field must be nominated by a current member in that field. The group’s bylaws allow men as members, although no men are on the roster.
Once a year, the group opens a significant meeting to the public. In February, Asque Davis had to make some last-minute changes for the meeting’s biggest draws: its nationally known keynote speaker.
The slated speaker for the Feb. 25 open meeting was Michele Norris, host of NPR’s “All Things Considered,” who became ill. In her place, Asque Davis turned to motivational speaker Alison Levine, who didn’t disappoint.
“It was hectic in the day or so leading up to it, but her (Levine’s) message was marvelous,” said Asque Davis. “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it.”
356-2466