Wednesday
November 9, 2016 11:30 a.m. First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall 800 Van Buren Avenue Oxford, MS
and
Luncheon Program
WELCOME...................................................................................................... Mary Haskell INVOCATION........................................................................Peggie Gillom-Granderson G I R L S C O U T P L E D G E .......................Oxford-Lafayette County Area Girl Scouts INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................... Mary Haskell K E Y N OT E S P E A K E R ......................................................................... Edith Kelly Green GIRL SCOUT HIGHLIGHTS............................................Melanie Schild, GSHS CEO 2016 NOMINEES......................................................................................... Mary Haskell Vicki Sneed C LO S I N G .......................................................................................................... Vicki Sneed
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Girl Scouts Heart of the South’s mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. We have 10,000 girl members from 5 – 18 years old and 3,100 adult volunteers located in 59 counties across the Mid-South.. Nationally 21% of girls ages 5 – 18 live in poverty. In the Mid-South, 47% live below the poverty level. This means that too many girls in our area do not have access to the kinds of vital programs that help them gain the needed life experiences and learn the necessary leadership skills that will enable them to break the cycle of poverty and avoid risky life behaviors including gang membership, teen pregnancy, and drug use. Girl Scouts Heart of the South provides girls with the resources that allow them to develop those leadership skills and positive behavioral traits that are critically necessary in today’s fast-paced society. Through Girl Scouts, girls receive a well-rounded program mix that helps them make strong connections with positive role-models in their communities, empowers them to be confident, caring, and contributing leaders, and shows them that they are capable of making a difference in their world. But we can’t do this alone; we need your help to make sure every girl ages 5 – 18 who wants to join Girl Scouts has that opportunity. Your gift can make a difference in the life of a local girl today and in our community tomorrow.
Invest in girls. Change the world.
2016 Women of Distinction Nominees
Shirley Crawford..........................................................................................................page 4 Shannon Ferguson......................................................................................................page 4 B r i t t any G i l l ey l en.......................................................................................................page 5 Dr. Gloria Kellum..........................................................................................................page 5 J a n i s M i l l e r.....................................................................................................................page 6 Wanda Poole...................................................................................................................page 6 Elizabeth Randall......................................................................................................... page 7 Pa m S wa i n...................................................................................................................... page 7 Dr. Judith Thompson..................................................................................................page 8 Ros i e Va ssal l o..............................................................................................................page 8
2016 Girl Scout of Distinction Nominee Mattie Harwood............................................................................................................page 9
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Nominees
shirley crawford Shirley Crawford—enough said right there! She is ‘the neighbor next door’ to everyone in the LOU community who has the privilege of calling her friend. Her love and support are steadfast—from first jobs, weddings, births to retirements—she is there! Shirley dispenses wise advice to friends, co-workers and family. “If Shirley said it, then, you could take it to the bank—her word is as good as gold. She’s amazing in giving instruction and convincing us of ideas, all the while making us believe that it was actually our own idea.” For Shirley, it’s all about doing the right thing, listening to our hearts and above all, respect for others. She lives the words she preaches. Shirley is still advising and counselling young women—a strong mentor and friend to them—because when she talks, they listen, and cling to every word. “She has lived a wonderful committed life in helping young women obtain their goals. Never has anyone left their time with Shirley Crawford feeling like they couldn’t conquer the world. She is honest, sincere to a fault, and the most encouraging person. I guess it is true—once a cheerleader, always a cheerleader. The leader in her will not quit.”
shannon ferguson Shannon Ferguson has the opportunity to serve in the community, teaching financial literacy to students in elementary schools through college. She hands out piggy banks and talks to young children about saving money. At the high school level, she mentors students on resumé building skills. Shannon developed a financial literacy course for all incoming freshman athletes—at Ole Miss and Alabama. Shannon has served on the United Way Board and is presently an Ambassador for the Chamber of Commerce and is serving as a mentor for Ole Miss Women’s Council Scholar. She teaches Sunday School and is active in the Oxford School District as PTO board member and treasurer, assisting in classes in every single PTO project such as reading and teaching Integrity Time—a program that teaches children to do ‘what is true and good and right’. Shannon is actively involved in every phase of Junior Auxiliary, especially Camp Sunshine—an overnight camp for girls, developing positive role models. Art Print is another project close to Shannon’s heart. For seven years she has been visiting elementary school classes to teach children about local and famous artists. “Shannon has a servant’s heart. She is quick to help others in need and is involved in numerous organizations and projects that serve women primarily.”
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Nominees
brittany gilleylen Oxford Police Officer Brittany Gilleylen has been a valuable asset, not only to her employer, but to hundreds of young children—elementary through high school—each year as she mentors them, providing a sounding board of opportunity for success where there may not have been before. She is an exceptional role model for young girls! When extra care and guidance is needed in those young ladies’ lives, Officer Brittany is there to encourage them, helping to shape their lives in and out of the classroom. Brittany also works as a liaison between troubled kids and youth court personnel, always looking out for the best interest of the child, resulting in a positive impact for change. “Brittany demonstrates her leadership, integrity and dedication to the job by her outreach in the schools, and in Camp Cops this past summer. She was an integral part of the success of the first annual camp for kids in our community. She is committed to improving the quality of life of kids and committed to improving our community through outreach. Brittany is an Ole Miss graduate, mother, sister, mentor, co-worker, friend and valuable asset to the Oxford Police Department. We are lucky to have her.”
dr. gloria kellum Dr. Gloria Kellum’s life, both personal and professional, is characterized by service to others. In the Fall of 1966, Gloria Kellum began her tenure at Ole Miss. Her role was to help re-establish the Speech and Hearing Program, graduating speech pathologists and audiologists, improving the lives of countless children and adults throughout America. Gloria quickly became a national authority in treating individuals with craniofacial birth defects that impacts speech, language and hearing. She helped begin the Cleft Palate Team in North Mississippi that provides services for children and their families. Highlights of her career include: teaching at Ole Miss for 43 years, receiving the University’s Elsie M. Hood Outstanding Teaching Award, co-chairing the University’s Sesquicentennial Celebration, establishing the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation, the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts and developing the Ole Miss Women’s Council for Philanthropy. In addition, she orchestrated the renovation of the Depot, and in 2008, Gloria helped lead the University in successfully hosting the 2008 Presidential Debate. “Gloria Kellum is a leader and a teacher in the true sense of the word. She inspires others with her zest for life, her inner strength, and her determination to help others succeed. She is gracious, tireless and selfless, and her favorite greeting ‘Life is Grand!’ epitomizes her character and spirit. An active Girl Scout troop leader for her daughters in the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s, her daughter Kelly is now a troop leader for her granddaughter’s Brownie troop.
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Nominees
janis miller My Mother, My Hero, Her Legacy—Janis Miller is and has always been a strong and courageous woman. She has exhibited her abilities to adapt, sacrifice, educate and inspire everyone with whom she comes in contact. “My mother believes in passing on legacies. She invests in people in a way that allows for her experience and wisdom to positively impact others. Over the years she has volunteered her talents for philanthropies and schools. Many times my mother directed school musicals, church children’s programs and parent forums. In fact, my mother has served as a mentor for younger women who are connected to military families. With each instance, my mother continues to give without the desire for recognition or thanks. She continues to be servant hearted in these ways.” All of these words describe Janis—inspirational, loyal, honest, volunteer extraordinaire, leader, artist, teacher, servant, selfless, generous, humble, wise, strong in her convictions and faith. “She was a Girl Scout and often refers back to her fondest memories as a scout. Those stories make me smile and grow in pride for the woman who continues to give so much to so many. She is my mother and my hero. I am excited to see how her legacy of selflessness continues to grow for years to come.”
wanda poole Compassionate! That describes Wanda Poole. And she never looks for recognition for all she does. She can often be found visiting homebound residents and those in retirement homes—most are friends of her generation. She is generous with her time, a friend to all. And you will find her at all Ole Miss sporting events, and her past life as a football coach’s wife propelled her into roles as a mother to all players and younger coaching wives—helping in any and every way possible. In her spare time, Wanda became a Girl Scout Leader for her daughter Patti. And did she ever lead! Wanda brought a new identity, renewed energy, creative ideas and wise counsel to hundreds of young girls under her leadership. “Wanda is the glue on both sides of her family. Many of her great nieces’ and nephews’ friends even refer to her as ‘Aunt Wanda’. She is extremely friendly! Wanda is a true ambassador and very involved in Oxford University United Methodist Church. She has hosted thousands of people in her home over the years, graciously cooking and entertaining. Due to her age, there are few folks left to give ideas on what all Wanda has done, even in the Realtor’s world—best one in town with energy to spare.”
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Nominees
elizabeth randall Elizabeth Randall developed a passion for serving others at an early age, working to make life better for others. She serves as Chair of St. Jude Taste of Oxford and sits as a trustee for the Clint and Ellen Ann Johnson Foundation. Elizabeth serves as Projects Chair for the Junior Auxiliary, developing successful service projects like Rachel’s Challenge, which focuses on being kind to others and eradicating bullying in schools. She also created a running group for middle school girls, focusing on the importance of exercise and self-care. As Event Chair for Tailgate for Palmer, Elizabeth raised over $200,000 for Palmer House. Professionally, Elizabeth is motivated and driven, starting her business Randall Commercial Group. In 2008 she received the Outstanding Young MBA Alumnus Award and in 2014 Elizabeth was named one of the Top 50 Leading Women in Business. “Elizabeth has the incredible capacity and skill set needed to work with people from all walks of life, including children, college students, community members, volunteer organizations and her peers. Elizabeth has benefitted our community in broad and numerous ways. She is a wonderful role model for young women and enables them to see that one can be successful in business endeavors, community service and in family life.” By example, Elizabeth is teaching her children the importance of loving and serving others.
pam swain As Senior Vice President of the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce, Pam Swain is responsible for the creation and management of many successful programs—Leadership Lafayette, Junior Leadership, Double Decker Run, Shop Oxford, and many more. “Our community is far better because of the work that Pam Swain puts into her job every day. The job that Pam has with the Chamber of Commerce benefits the community in many ways.” As a school volunteer, Pam works tirelessly to promote Lafayette County schools. She is PTO President of the Lafayette Upper Elementary School and was recently honored as Parent of the Year. Pam led the highly successful charge to raise funds through a Lafayette County School license plate campaign. She is an inspiration to women who work as volunteers and she is always careful to ensure that there is great diversity in the volunteer leadership. Pam has all of the qualities of a great leader. She is compassionate and understands the heart of a volunteer. She works hard to recognize those who are making a difference in our community. “Pam is certainly a leader who cares about her people, her job and the impact on our community.”
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Nominees
dr. judith thompson Dr. Judith Thompson is a University of Mississippi Assistant Professor of Teacher Education. This is her job, and it’s also her life’s work, her passion and her love! Judith is a retired educator, having served as Principal of Oxford Elementary School and Bramlett Elementary School. In 1996 she was awarded the prestigious Milken Educator Award for implementing a literacy program for students who read 50 books and completed 50 book reports and rewarding these students with activities and festivities feathering themes, costumes and music. She constantly sought innovative strategies to push children to achieve their full potential. “Dr. Thompson has been a constant beacon of light in the Lafayette-OxfordUniversity community. She is a life-long volunteer with many non-profit organizations in the area. She is Chair of the LOU Excel by 5 Steering Committee, a community-based project that strives to improve the quality of life for children ages 5 and younger.” Judith presently serves on the Lafayette County School Board, a confirmation of her commitment to improving the education of children in the district. Dr. Thompson serves on The Board of Directors of the Oxford Boys and Girls Club, and served several years as President of that Board. She has served on the Board of the CREATE Foundation and Leap Frog. Serving this community has been her life’s endeavor.
rosie vassallo Rosie Vassallo is known throughout the State of Mississippi by her professional colleagues as an accomplished, talented, creative leader who always finds a way to successfully improve the communities where she has lived. The Clarion Ledger said it best in describing Rosie: Dynamic Woman of Mississippi! “Rosie is a talented artist and as such has created and donated countless works of art for other nonprofit and public entities raising money for worthwhile projects for both community betterment and for meeting human needs in the community.” Rosie has served as a mentor the past several years to guide UM School of Journalism Interns to train them in customer service, organizational skills and business management. Part of Rosie’s success at motivating others is her selfless dedication to winning with the ‘team’ and not seeking personal gain or recognition, rather praising the success of those involved in the effort. Before arriving in Oxford, Rosie was presented the ‘Peggy Wilks Award’ by the City of Madison, Mississippi and she was named Kiwanian of the Year within a year of becoming a member. Rosie is task driven. Time and time again she has demonstrated that she and her volunteer teams will find a way to create a workable solution for reaching their goals.
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Girl Scout of Distinction Nominee
mattie harwood Mattie is 13 years old currently attending 8th grade in Jr. High School. Mattie is very active in her youth group at church and is in the Tiger Choir at school. Mattie has been in Girl Scouts since the second grade. She and her troop received their Girl Scout Bronze Award while raising awareness of the recycling program in Panola County. They held a Recycle Day where the girls made snow cones to give to everyone who brought their recyclables to the site and the Girl Scouts assisted and educated those who came regarding what could be recycled and what could not. Mattie received her Service Bar last year along with her other troop members when they volunteered at Merea Ministry. Mattie is currently working on her Girl Scout Silver Award.
Master of Ceremonies
mary donnelly haskell Originally from Beaumont, Texas, Mary was crowned Miss Mississippi in 1977, and graduated with distinction from the University of Mississippi in 1981. She has starred in episodes of Touched By An Angel, Seventh Heaven, Sisters, Diagnosis Murder, Days Of Our Lives, and over twenty movies for television, including two of the Hallmark Channel’s highest rated Christmas movies Once Upon A Christmas and Twice Upon A Christmas. An accomplished singer, Mary has performed at venues including The Kennedy Center, The White House, and with The Prague Symphony Orchestra. She is also a popular children’s recording artist, having released four CDs through her company, My Songs. In 2005 she released her first contemporary adult album entitled Inspired - a collection of inspirational standards. In May 2007, she released Power Of The Cross - a collection of Sacred Hymns and Praise Songs recorded with The Prague Symphony, and in Christmas 2008 she released a Christmas CD entitled Just In Time for Christmas. Mary continues to perform with various Symphonies and at churches across the country.
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Keynote Speaker
edith kelly green After graduating from the University of Mississippi, Edith Kelly Green earned a master’s degree in business administration from Vanderbilt University. She began her career as a Certified Public Accountant and retired after 30 years with FedEx, only to purchase and develop one of the most successful Lenny’s Sub Shop franchises in the country. Edith is a founding member of the Ole Miss Women’s Council and the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. She has been inducted into the Ole Miss Hall of Fame and established several scholarships at the university. She has served as co-chair of the Pyramid Re-Use Committee, the board of directors for the Center City Commission and the Memphis Zoo, and on the advisory board of Baptist Women’s Hospital. She provides leadership on the board of directors of the University of Tennessee Medical Group and Applied Industrial Technologies. A breast cancer survivor, she also helps promote opportunities to communicate and reduce the risk of cancer.
The Girl Scout Mission Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
Girl Scouts Heart of the South wishes to thank our dedicated 2016 Women of Distinction Committee Members: Chairperson - Vicki Sneed, Jennifer Eastland, Mary Haskell, Margaret King, Molly Meisenheimer, Katie Naron, Kyle Still, and Abi Rayburn. Without you, this extraordinary event would not be possible. Thank you for investing your time and talents to help recognize and honor Women of Distinction in the Lafayette-Oxford-University community and to promoting Girl Scouts’ mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
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ambassador level sponsors Kappa Delta Sorority
mTrade LLC
Alpha Mu Chapter
cadette level sponsors Charter Road Hospitality, Inc. Ole Miss Athletics Foundation University of Mississippi
junior level sponsors McDonald’s Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Foundation Sam & Mary Haskell Randall Commercial Group, LLC Abi Rayburn Bill Tait
Abbeville Bank Baptist Memorial Hospital North Mississippi
Cannon Motors of Mississippi Delta Delta Delta Chi Chapter
FNC, Inc. The Jerry Kellum Family
brownie level sponsors Regions Bank Sneed’s Ace Hardware Swetland Cook, PLLC
The Oxford Eagle, Inc. Y’all Twins Margaret & Katherine King
daisy level sponsors Lammons Fine Jewelry Kitty Mann
Renasant Bank Robyn Tennehill 11
Event Sponsors
luncheon sponsors Many thanks to the following businesses for providing such a wonderful lunch. As you patronize these locations, please thank them for their generous contributions to our community.
Details Rental Elizabeth Heiskell Catering McAlister’s My Michelle’s
Newk’s No Time 2 Cook Oby’s Party Waitin’ to Happen Tallahatchie Gourmet
Special thanks to Abner’s Famous Chicken Tenders and Holli’s Sweet Tooth for providing lunch and treats for our attending Girl Scouts.
floral arrangements by Oxford Floral Company University Florist
The Twisted Twig Mimosa Flowers, Gifts & Gourmet
Thanks to Regions Bank for the generous gift of the Life Green Bike.
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Oxford Conference Center
103 Ed Perry Blvd. (662) 234-5565
Oxford
105 Ed Perry Blvd. (662) 238-3522
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The Girl Scout Promise On my honor, I will try: to serve God and my country, to help people at all times, and to live by the Girl Scout Law.
The Girl Scout Law I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.
Girl Scouts Heart of the South www.girlscoutshs.org I 800.624.4185