Tallahassee Linkdom Tallahassee Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
A Message from Madame President As you may recall, my vision is for a chapter: 1. that positively impacts our community by developing, executing, and sustaining high quality programs and services;
Greetings Link sisters, Get ready, get ready, get ready! This is a new year in Linkdom and I am eagerly looking forward to the new heights we will reach. As such, with excitement and humility, I greet each of you in the spirit of true friendship and service. Quite honestly, it is difficult to believe that summer is over – a summer that included the highs and lows of life, the good news and the not so good news. Yet, through every “you go girl” or “I hope you feel better,” the Links’ circle of friendship was clearly evident. Because of this camaraderie and support, I am indeed honored to serve as your chapter president.
2. whose members make a meaningful and intentional commitment to developing and/or nurturing genuine, long-lasting friendships within our chapter
Speaking of talents, a very, very special thanks is extended to the talented and dedicated Link Darice and the Public Affairs Committee for producing this inaugural chapter newsletter! (applause, applause) These hardworking Link sisters are serious about informing our chapter members and the community about newsworthy events and programs of our chapter, and as such, are positioning us to be even more recognizable as women dedicated to transformational programming and to excellence.
3. that maintains a healthy respect for the traditions and values of our organization while strategically seeking new opportunities Finally, I thank you for for partnerships and col- your friendship. Oprah Winfrey purportedly said, laborations. “Lots of people want to All summer long our ride with you in the limo, chapter officers, facets but what you want is someand committees have one who will take the bus been planning and orga- with you when the limo nizing activities, services breaks down.” I believe and programs that reflect members of the Tallahasthis vision. Plans with a see Chapter of The Links, clear sense of purpose and Incorporated would easily a commitment to excel- and willingly fill the bus lence abound and I can’t and, for that, I love each of wait for them to come to you. fruition. Remember, it is OUR community that will I look forward to a rewardbe well served by our ing year in Linkdom and efforts and I sincerely hope you do too! thank you for willingly sharing your abundant talents.
Link Debra
Volume 1, Issue 1 September 2014
Inside this issue: 2014 Beautillion
2
National Trends
3
Annual Chapter Retreat
4
Arts Scholarship Reception
5
Birthday Corner
5
Link in the Spotlight
6
Alumna Corner
7
Links Leadership Glenda Newell-Harris, M.D. National President Eneid A. Francis Southern Area Director Debra Austin, Ed.D. Chapter President Darice E. Richard, Pharm.D. Public Relations Chairman
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Tallahassee Linkdom
2014 Beautillion Tallahassee Links hosted a capacity crowd audience of more than 300 at its Fourth Annual Links Beautillion white tie formal presentation held Saturday, March 1, at the University Center Club where twelve local high school seniors were celebrated and presented to the community. The group received $8,000 in scholarship awards. The chapter developed the Beautillion as a curriculum based program designed to celebrate achievements of male high school seniors while also encouraging and inspiring them through involvement in high quality leadership, character education and mentoring opportunities. Links’ Beautillion participants were selected based upon demonstrated achievements in: academics, leadership, sports, the arts, community service and/or church involvement. Beaux participating in the 2014 leadership and mentoring program included: Adam Claitt of FAMU DRS; Reginald Glover, Kenstin Nnaji, Stacy Tinner, III and Frederic Triplett, Jr. of Rickards High School; Brooks Duncan of Chiles High School; Gregory Hall of Lincoln High School; Quandarius Dugan of Leon County Schools Adult and Community Education Center; Devin Harrison of Godby High School; and Ako Platt and Keldrick Woodard of Florida State University Schools.
The Links Beautillion program featured a six-week curriculum based program beginning with a “Green Coat Ceremony,” signifying leadership and character commitment, and culminated with this White Tie formal presentation. The formal program celebrated their leadership, cultural and character enrichment program completion.
The culminating Links Beautillion formal presentation featured the traditional Mothers and Beaux Waltz. Beautillion Mothers and Beaux were later joined in Waltz by Fathers and Links Beautillion attendants who included: Jatericka Connelly, Leah Gibson, Sarah Gurley, Jada J. Henry, Amaya Danielle Mann, Shonda McThay, O’Tia Sherone Nash, Ugochi Nnaji, Julia Osayimwen Osagie, Jayla Pugh, Kassidy Sharpe and Aeon R. West.
Mayor John Marks issued an inspiring charge to the celebrated Beaux and Mr. Chester Davis served as the program’s Griot. Musical inspiration was provided by Attorney E. Leon Jacobs as accompanied by Dr. Mary Roberts. Achievement and scholarship awards to assist the Beaux college education were announced by Dr. Debra Austin. Each Beau received a participant trophy and a scholarship award. In addition, special award categories and recipients were: Academic Excellence – Kenstin Nnaji, winner, Stacy Tinner, III, second place and Reginald Glover, third place; Leadership – Devin Harrison, winner and Gregory Hall, second place; Entrepreneurial Excellence – Keldrick Woodard, winner and Frederic Triplett, Jr., second place; Community Service – Devin Harrison, winner and Ako Platt second place; Beaux chose the Best All Around Beau as Reginald Glover; and the 2014 Beau of the Year winner was Keldrick Woodard. Link Linda said the group’s membership was most pleased to witness the growth and development of these young gentlemen. She said the Links Beaux sense of civic responsibility, leadership, aspiration for professional achievement and enthusiasm in embracing accountability as adults were commendable. Submitted by: Link Linda Dilworth
Installation of Officers The installation of the 2014 - 2016 officers occurred at A La Province Restaurant on April 12, 2014. Alumna member Link Altha Manning, former National Program Director, Southern Area Treasurer, and Chapter President, conducted the ceremony and administered the oaths to each chapter officer. Following the installation and a round of applause from chapter members, Link Debra thanked the chapter for the vote of support for the new
leadership team and pledged to continue to strive for excellence in chapter programs and services. She also thanked the previous leadership team for exemplary performance. specifically commenting on the hard work of outgoing Vice President Link Penny Ralston and President Linda Dilworth. Both were provided with a chapter gift in appreciation for their service. Submitted by Link Debra Austin
2014 - 2016 Officers
President - Link Debra Austin Vice President - Link Delores Lawson Recording Secretary - Link Thyria Ansley Corresponding Secretary - Link Celeste Hart Financial Secretary - Link Mary Henry Treasurer - Link Pam Baker Historian/Archivist - Link Loretta Flowers Protocol Adviser - Geraldine Roberts Parliamentarian - Link Harriet Williams
Volume 1, Issue 1
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National Trends - Inaugural Summer Enrichment Camp The Tallahassee Chapter of The Links, Incorporated conducted its inaugural Summer Enrichment Camp for middle school girls June 2-6, 2014. The Enrichment Camp convened at World Ballet, Inc. at 2518 Cathay Court. Mr. Henry Hernandez is the founder and artistic director of World Ballet. The Camp, one of the outstanding programs of the National Trends and Services facet of The Links, Inc., was organized to assist in fulfilling the commitment of its founders.
With the assistance of volunteers Heir O' Links Maya King and Adrianna Williams as well as the members of the National Trends and Services facet, Links Leslie Baker and Bertha Murray conducted activities that were fun, exciting, interesting, educational, and enriching. The nine girls from various middle schools throughout
facts that brought awareness to this crisis and engaged the girls in conversation and activities, arming them with useful coping techniques.
The second workshop, on confidence and self esteem, was conducted by Link Opal McKinney Williams, attorney and involved community worker. Link Opal serves on several boards and is known for her work with the Leon County school foundation. She led the girls into lively interactive activities and discussions that were designed to help them develop more confidence to participate in daily activities. She stressed to the girls that they have to believe in themselves and their abilities.
girls understand how nutrition plays a role in growth and development. They discussed the importance of eating balanced meals and spent time talking about the value of eating breakfast. The girls were encouraged to read labels to help them make informed food choices. The leaders discussed the “My Plate” initiative to demonstrate what types of food the girls should be eating. On the fifth and final day of the camp, the girls were excited to have their families and friends join them for a finale of activities. While the audience listened attentively, the girls shared information they learned in the workshops during the week. Dressed in their beautiful white leotards, pink tights, and white ballet shoes, they demonstrated their dance skills which they acquired during the week. One highlight of the finale was an exhibition by dancers from World Ballet. As reminders of their camp experience, the girls were awarded Certificates of Participation and words of encouragement by Dr. Debra Austin, president of the Tallahassee Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and were given keepsakes of t-shirts and framed photos. Evaluations revealed that the camp accomplished its goals. The girls learned some things they did not already know. They had fun. They made friends. They look forward to next year.
Leon County (Gabrielle Bradley, Akili Dennis, Jazlyn Byrd, Ameion Hamlet, India McCary, Triniti Meeks, Imani Sampson, Jhordyn Stallworth, and Hanna Triplett), participated in activities that included the following: daily opening with affirmations, dance instruction with a World Ballet instructor, workshops led by Link chapter members, journaling, and enjoying healthy snacks and lunches. Link Jane Marks, conducted the workshop on discipline and behavior, where she focused on anti-bullying. Research shows that bullying is a growing crisis among school children. Link Marks presented
Link Clinita Ford, Florida A and M University retired professor and Dean, conducted the third workshop. Link Clinita is recognized nationally for her pioneering professional and civic activities. She engaged the girls in a need-to-know session on financial literacy and money management. One highlight of this presentation was the giving of information about making sound decisions on money matters. The girls were interested in Dr. Ford’s ideas on the difference in “needs” and “wants.” Link Delores Lawson, nursing professor at Florida A and M University, teamed up with volunteer assistants and public school students Heir O' Links Maya King and Adrianna Williams to conduct the workshop on nutrition. They helped the
Submitted by: Link Bertha Murray
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Tallahassee Linkdom
Annual Chapter Retreat On Saturday, July 17, the Tallahassee Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, held its annual retreat at the Hilton Garden Inn on Thomasville Road. Chapter members greeted each other with lots of hugs and conversations, interspersed with a light lunch provided by Jersey Mike’s Subs co-owner Link Kimberly Crowell and by Chapter President Link Debra Austin. Following the repast, Link Debra introduced the workshop facilitator Link Faye Hargrove, Southern Area Chair of Organizational Effectiveness. The icebreaker that followed was entertaining and fun. Each member was asked to describe the member sitting to her right by using the first letter of the latter’s name. For example, Link Gloria Gant was described as Gorgeous Gloria! (An absolutely appropriate description!) Without a doubt, members had an enjoyable time
describing each other in creative and thoughtful ways. However, the purpose of this exercise was to reveal how important it is to reflect positivity in our interactions with our sisters and to remind us how we feel (good) when others attribute positive qualities to us.
Next Link Faye led the chapter in a series of exercises designed to help members eliminate negative thoughts and emotions and to replace them with better and more constructive choices. Again the purpose of these exercises was to help members eradicate those things that serve as obstacles to individual and chapter progress, the result being a clear path to happiness and success. Her book Better Choices and the accompanying CD certainly helped members engage in serious introspection and, in the long run, should enhance all aspects of individual member and chapter life.
In fact, at the end of the session, I was reminded of a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson: “Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day.” The attendance of 28 of our members at the annual Retreat definitely signaled a desire and willingness to tackle the business of service and friendship in Links. Thanks to Link Faye Hargrove and her excellent presentation, I believe we more clearly understand the importance of eliminating obstacles to individual and chapter progress and are further motivated to demonstrate excellence in all we say and do. Thanks to all for attending this exciting and productive chapter retreat! Submitted by Link Debra Austin
Tallahassee Urban League Honors Link Anita Favors-Thompson On Friday evening, June 27, 2014, The Tallahassee Urban League honored nine outstanding leaders in our community, one of whom was our very own Link sister, Link Anita Favors - Thompson. At least 15 chapter members attended this very special gala and all proudly shared in celebrating the recognition of Link Anita as a 2014 Legend Awardee. It was absolutely wonderful to watch a very tall and dapper Connecting Link James Ford, a 2011 Urban League Legend Award recipient, elegantly stride to the podium to pin one of this year's awardees!
Volume 1, Issue 1
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The Arts Awards First Four Year Scholarship On May 18, 2014, at the lovely home of Connecting Link Mayor John Marks and First Lady, Link Jane Marks, the first recipient of the Links Arts Academy four-year scholarship was honored. Miss Kiara Palmer, the Academy’s first scholarship recipient, enrolled in the Links Art Academy four years ago. She was among the first group of students to participate in the academy and remained in the program, benefitting from the tutelage of Eluster Richardson, internationally acclaimed artist and Academy Board member, and other accomplished professionals. Kiara stated that, “Working with such greats as Eluster Richardson, having the opportunity to have private gallery talks and dinner with other great artists such as Dean Mitchell, the first African American admitted into the American Water Color Society, convinced me that I could make a career and make a contribution to society by pursuing my passion. . . ART.” Kiara is a very special young lady. In the eleventh grade, she won first place in the Lemonyne High School
City-Wide Art competition. As a high school senior, Kiara was recognized in Leon County’s Best and Brightest Award Program as the first runner-up in the art category. Although an accomplished portraitist, Kiara has decided to attend University of South Florida and major in animation. Animation is a field that she has always found fascinating. She will also continue her love of drawing “faces.” The Academy is built on the pillars of community, education and family. Kiara’s success is certainly grounded in the three pillars and her mother, Ms. Alice Palmer has certainly been a model parent in supporting her child’s dreams. Ms. Palmer sent correspondence to the Chapter to say, “Thanks again for the support of the Tallahassee Chapter of the Links and I will keep you posted on Kiara’s progress.” In addition to the four-year financial commitment to Kiara, the Academy, in collaboration with the Florida Education Foundation, Project Stars, has endowed two full tuition four-year scholarships to date. It is
anticipated that the Academy will be awarding at least one of the scholarships to a 2015 high school graduate who wishes to pursue a four-year degree in the visual arts. The Academy’s application deadline for students is October 15, 2014 with activities starting November 15, 2014. The Academy’s major fundraiser, “The Fifth Annual Timeless Holiday Affair” will be December 7, 2014, Westminster Oaks, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 pm. The Links Art Academy is the major program of the Arts Facet with demonstrated full support of the entire Tallahassee Chapter of The Links, Inc. Submitted by Link Doby Flowers
Birthday Corner - June ● July ● August ● September June
02: Link Linda Dilworth 14: Link Harriet Williams 25: Link Celeste Hart
July
06: Link Dorothy Brickler 13: Link Audra Pittman 18: Link Mary Roberts 20: Link Bertha Murray
August 04: Link Darice Richard 11: Link Deana McAllister 12: Link Margaret Lewis 13: Link Kimberly Crowell 19: Link Doby Flowers 23: Link Altha Manning 25: Link Marcia Owens 30: Link Thyria Ansley
September 01: Link Bessyee Washington 23: Link Clinita Ford 23: Link Gloria Gant
Link in the Limelight ~ Meet Link Audra Pittman
Tell me about your family (parent’s name, any siblings, spouse, children, where you are from, etc): - I was born in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. My father’s name is Otis Price, mother is Dr. Willena Kimpson Price and my older brother (by 10 years) Terry Price. My husband is Sean Pittman and he is an attorney in town with his own practice and offices in Tallahassee, West Palm Beach, and Miami. I have three children. Paloma will be 4 in October, and my twins Phoebe and Pilar just turned 1 in August. Where did you attend school? Degrees or other education? 1) University of Connecticut 2000, B.F.A. Fine Arts – Illustration 2) Maryland Institute College of Art, 2002, M.A.T. Art Education 3) The Florida State University, 2007, Ph.D. Art Education/Arts Administration. What about your career…what kind of work do you do, for whom, and for how long? The first job I took in my career was at Patapsco Middle School in Ellicott City, Maryland. I was THE art teacher for grades 6 -8 from 2002-2004. In 2004 I was also an assistant track coach at Morgan State University where I worked with mid-distance runners. It was then that I decided I wanted to continue working in higher education and decided to pursue my Ph.D. I attended FSU from 2004-2007. During that time I was in charge of the courses “Art in the Elementary Classroom” that taught elementary education majors how to incorporate arts methods and strategies into their lesson planning. Prior to graduation I accepted my first professorial job at Lander University in Greenwood, SC. I started in the summer of 2007. I was in charge of directing the Master of Arts in Teaching program to certify students in K-12 art. I also taught a studio art class for art majors. Savannah College of Art and Design called me the next year and asked if I had my degree in hand and if I wanted to reapply to a professor position. I interviewed and was offered the position of Chair of the Depart-
ment of Professional Education. I was responsible for running another M.A.T. program that certified Art and Drama Education graduate students K-12. In my first year I was responsible for creating and running a fully online program, for boosting enrollment from 2- 20 students in two years, and to get the entire program accredited by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission which at the time met the NCATE standards for national teacher certification. I chaired the department from 2008-2011. During that time I got married and had a baby and decided to make Tallahassee my full-time home. I continued working for SCAD by teaching in the online program from 20112012. At that point, the online program admissions dropped and they later cut the department. I then started my own personal art studio called Suite P Creative Studio that offered arts lessons, classes, and parties for all levels of ability and all ages. During this time I began volunteering for a number of organizations including: LeMoyne Center for the Visual Arts, John G. Riley House and Museum, Boys Town of North Florida, United Way of the Big Bend, and serve on the Dean’s Advisory Board for the College of Visual Arts, Theater & Dance at Florida State University. I currently also serve on the Leon County Tourist Development Council as an Ex Officio member. In the beginning of 2014, the position of Executive Director of the Council on Culture & Arts (COCA) opened. I applied and was offered the position in June 2014. I am responsible for overseeing a staff of 5 (including myself), operations, management and programming. COCA is the capital area’s only umbrella agency for arts and culture. We work with and for those who produce, invest in, and consume the arts and culture in the area. We are responsible for re-granting nearly onemillion dollars from the City of Tallahassee and Leon County to 30 arts, culture, and heritage organizations.
fit for me because of The Arts Facet. While in Tallahassee, Doby Flowers initially got me involved by working with students from the Arts Academy. I juried for a poster competition and mentored students through numerous activities at my studio. I appreciate the focus on friendship and connection to service. What other organizations are you a member of? I am a member of the Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill Inc. of America. What hobbies do you have or what do you like to do in your spare time. I am a runner and love to do 5Ks whenever I get a chance. I am a practicing artist and still do portrait paintings. What recent honors or awards you have received? · Recognized for contribution and commitment to the Capital Area Cultural Plan, as Co-Chair, by the City of Tallahassee, 2014. · Golden A.C.E. Awards, Winner for “Arts & Culture” Network of Young Professionals, 2014 · Golden A.C.E. Awards, Nominee for “Arts & Culture” ,Network of Young Professionals, 2013
Do you have a life philosophy or something/someone who inspires you? My life philosophy is to continue to stay positive and look at challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Recently I have been inspired by the writing of Dr. Brene Brown and I am currently reading her book titled, The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings on Authenticity, Connection, and Courage. It’s a book that offers insight into the positive aspects of being vulnerable and how that opens the doors to creativity, innovation and authenticity. I am always drawn to authors that encourage When and where were you initiated in growth in a positive and wholistic way. If The Links, Incorporated? May 2013 in I had all of the time in the world I would Tallahassee, FL. also watch Oprah’s Super Soul Sundays and every guest that she has on there. What attracted you to The Links, IncorThere is always something inspiring about porated? I have been involved in the Links hearing a person’s stories and the chalfor an entire lifetime due to my mother and lenges that they have encountered and helping her with receptions or events that how they decided to persevere and thrive. she held as a member of the Links. I value that the Links membership consists of high achieving and accomplished women who value service to their community and to preserving culture. It also seemed a natural