SUSTAINER SPOTLIGHTS Cynthia Murray & Thillie Newton INTERVIEWS BY RIA PATEL
For
Any fond memories you have of your time in the League? Any many, membership in the Junior League is a lifelong placements that you recall were you favorites? journey. From time spent as a new member and the transition to the active member years to becoming a sustainer, the League I worked in the Bright Shawl Tea Room and served as the cohas seen scores of women through various seasons and phases chair and chair for the annual Rummage event. One year during of their adult lives. Rummage, which was held at the convention center, there was Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Cynthia Murray a dog that was roaming around during the sale. Well, I ended up and Thillie Newton, who are both sustainer emeritus members – taking the dog home. sustaining members who have reached the age of 80. Any other thoughts or advice to give to prospective JLSA members? CYNTHIA MURRAY Make the most of the opportunities that the League gives you. It is so important to get to know one another. Junior League gives women the chance to think outside of the box, build relationships, become ready for new employment or career opportunities, and develop skills for any stage in a woman’s life. I still keep up with a few friends from my new member year. I love the direction the League is taking for the future—moving with the times of increased development and technology. The fact that the Junior League is expanding membership opportunities is amazing.
Cynthia, why did you join the Junior League? When I was in high school, I was heavily involved with volunteering for the American Red Cross. Back then, I was the only student director of the American Red Cross from Texas. Naturally, volunteering has always been a big part of my life. I was still involved with the American Red Cross, even as a military spouse, as well as other volunteer organizations. It was just natural for me to join the Junior League when I did in the 1960s. Did the League help you gain skills for your career? Yes. My time in the League helped me gain the confidence and clarity that I needed to succeed as a real estate agent. I was one of the first team members for Kuper-Sotheby’s. In fact, I still work part time as an Alumni Agent Manager. Since I married young and did not get to finish college, the League gave me the opportunity to gain skills I would not have been able to obtain otherwise. Through the League, I was able to learn about procedural skills. Winter 2020
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