Written by Erica Bock

The March General Member Meeting (GMM) of the Junior League of Cincinnati was an enriching evening that paid homage to Women’s History Month while spotlighting the enduring legacy of leadership within the JLC. 

Warm Welcome and Cultural Heritage Project Revealing

The GMM commenced with a warm welcome from René Robers, President of the Junior League of Cincinnati, setting the tone for an evening of reflection and inspiration. In honor of Women’s History Month please enjoy an incredibly inspiring 15-minute video showcasing the history of the Junior League over the last century and beyond. It can be viewed online at bit.ly/JL-History 

Following this, Deanna Hillard, Chair of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), unveiled the Cultural Heritage Project, highlighting the League’s commitment to embracing and celebrating diversity. We learned that heritage refers to the things that are being passed on from generation to generation, and which include customs, traditions, beliefs, values, culture, performing arts, rituals, and social behavior. Culture is the distinctiveness of a group of people based on several elements such as laws, dress, architecture, language, festivals, ceremonies, food, social standards, and so on. JLC members represent more than 52 countries, according to our self-reported survey, showcasing the diversity of our membership’s heritage and global reach!

A Legacy of Leadership: Sustainer Panel

Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of the GMM was the captivating “Legacy of Leadership” panel, masterfully moderated by Angie Carl. This panel, curated by Marty Humes and Kathryn Harsh, Co-VPs of the Sustainers\ Council, featured esteemed past presidents and board members, including Meredith Comin, Jamie Humes, Susan Shelton, and Kathy Wade. Judy Dalambakis was also scheduled as a panelist but was unable to attend. We invite you to use this link to read more about each of the panelists. 

Each panelist shared profound insights gleaned from their extensive tenure in the League, offering a glimpse into their remarkable journeys and the invaluable contributions they’ve made to the organization and the community. Their stories, from spearheading transformative initiatives to championing charitable causes, underscored the profound impact of lifelong membership and dedicated service through the League.

With her 40 years of League involvement and illustrious track record in fundraising and community engagement, Marty Humes illuminated the power of volunteerism as a fulfilling “career” choice. Drawing from her family legacy within the League, Kathryn Harsh exemplified the spirit of generational commitment and community stewardship.

The panelists’ collective wisdom and unwavering dedication inspired current and future League members, reaffirming the JLC’s ethos of empowering women to effect meaningful change.

Vote: VP of Sustainers Council

An essential agenda item of the evening was the vote for the next Co-Vice President of Sustainers, facilitated by Sarah Houseman, the Legal Advisor. This pivotal decision underscores the democratic governance structure of the League and the importance of member engagement in shaping its leadership. Emily Headly was voted into this role to begin on June 1, 2024.

Membership Announcements and Closing

As the meeting drew to a close, Katie Arendt, Chair of Membership Recruitment, provided updates on membership renewal and placement for 2024-2025, which is due to be paid by April 13; New Member applications, open through June 1, and upcoming engagement opportunities. Interested women can learn more about becoming a member at jlcincinnati.org/membership.Early bird pricing is new this year, offering discounted dues to women who apply before April 15. 

A celebratory shower of playing cards with event information was thrown to create exciting for the new spring fundraiser, A Night in Monte Carlo! Members are encouraged to purchase tickets and share with their networks – this exciting event will be hosted at the Cincinnati Ballet’s Margaret & Michael Valentine Center for Dance on Saturday, April 13 – tickets can be purchased at jlcincinnati.org/springfundraiser – the committee is seeking sponsors and silent auction items.

The March GMM encapsulated the essence of the Junior League of Cincinnati—a vibrant community of women dedicated to fostering leadership, promoting inclusivity, and effecting positive change. As members continue to embrace their roles as catalysts for social progress, the legacy of leadership embodied by the Sustainer panelists serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more equitable future.