‘Spinning Vision into Reality’: 135th annual convention celebrates GFWC

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs International held its 135th annual convention at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park in Atlanta, Georgia, bringing together members from around the world to celebrate service, leadership and the joy of working together for a better tomorrow.

The convention theme, “Spinning Vision into Reality,” captured the heart of what GFWC is all about. It speaks to the way members transform passion into purpose and purpose into impact.

GFWC Alabama was honored with a national Epsilon Sigma Omicron award for excellence in promoting lifelong learning through reading. ESO is a cherished part of GFWC’s mission. It offers a structured reading program that encourages personal growth and nurtures a love of learning.

GFWC Alabama was represented by 26 voting delegates and two nonvoting attendees. Several Alabama clubs and members received recognition for their contributions. The GFWC duMidi Woman’s Club placed ninth for donations to the GFWC Success to Survivors Scholarship Fund. Cynthia and Gregg Geis earned first place. Sherry Stutts placed sixth, and Christine Steele of Cahaba Valley Women of GFWC also placed sixth.

Whether through education, advocacy, health initiatives or community service, the work of GFWC continues to ripple outward. It is carried forward by members who believe in the power of collective action and kindness.

GFWC International President Suellen B. Brazil, who previously served as president of the Alabama Federation, welcomed attendees. “This convention set the stage for meaningful connections, forwardthinking ideas and renewed momentum for the work ahead,” she said.

Speakers addressed timely topics, including health and wellness, literacy, women’s history, and the ongoing fight against domestic and sexual violence.

Speakers included Anna Laymon, director of the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation; Dr. Regina Benjamin, founder and CEO of Bayou Clinic and former U.S. Surgeon General; Lynn Rosenthal, director at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; and David Coffey, board member of the Safe Surfin’ Foundation.

Workshops focused on practical tools and creative strategies to support leadership and volunteer service. A panel of GFWC Affiliate Organizations included representatives from the United Nations Foundation’s Shot@Life campaign, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Hope for Justice, Heifer International, the Alzheimer’s Association and Operation Smile.

Themed banquets added sparkle and spirit to the evenings. Guests enjoyed “Georgia: Hollywood of the South,” “The Shape of Unity” and “A Red Affair: Pulse of a Woman Gala,” along with entertainment from Young Elvis and The Blue Suedes.

It’s always inspiring to see the dedication and heart of GFWC members from across the country and around the world. The work may look different from place to place, but we’re united by a common purpose to serve, uplift and lead with compassion.