The Topeka Professional Chapter of the Association for Women in Communications (AWC) presented a $100 contribution and packaged nearly 300 pounds of donated food at Topeka’s Harvesters on November 14, as part of the association’s annual community investment project. In total, Topeka AWC members donated enough food to prepare 626 meals for Topeka residents.

“With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, the Association for Women in Communications wanted to do our part to ensure that no Topeka family goes hungry this holiday season,” said Topeka AWC President Lauren Tice. “The event was a great reminder that no matter how small your group, you can make a difference.”

Since taking over, the 2012-13 board has implemented the following changes:

• Topeka AWC Google group. We are establishing a Google group; it's essentially a distribution list for all members of the Topeka AWC. When an email is sent to tawcmembers@googlegroups.com, all members of the Topeka AWC will receive it and can respond to it. So, the next time you have a question about how to do something, need suggestions on the best vendors for a certain project, simply want to inform the group of a certain event, or just say hi to everyone, you can. When you've been added to the group, you'll receive notification.
• New meeting day and time. We are now hosting all meetings on the third Wednesday of every month, unless there is a conflict with a holiday. To accommodate more schedules, our programs will rotate between lunch meetings and evening meetings. Click here to view a full schedule of upcoming meetings.
• Lunch programs are now "brown bag." To reduce the cost to members and guests, we're no longer catering lunches. Program attendees are encouraged to grab lunch beforehand or eat during the meeting, depending on location. Special events such as the membership drive or members-only event will provide refreshments at no cost to members.
• Free programs to members. All programs are now completely free for members to attend, $5 for a guest.
• Enhanced Job Bank. Our Job Bank, which is distributed every Monday, now contains internships, volunteer opportunities, and calls for artists in addition to job openings in the surrounding area. If you know of any job openings or other opportunities, please send them to Amanda Schuster at aschuster@lkm.org

Topeka AWC recently gave out its annual membership awards.

Rising Star Award

The Rising Star Award is bestowed in the memory of long-time member and former chapter president Carolyn Terhune. The award is given to a member of less than two years who has shown exceptional involvement in the Topeka chapter of the Association for Women in Communications, and you must be a member for less than 2 years.

This year our Rising Star was Bev West, current VP of Membership Retention and Job Bank Chair.  She was nominated for taking on numerous responsibilities throughout the year and always offering a helping hand to any and all projects happening.  She also attended numerous events and created a positive atmosphere with her can-do attitude.  

One nominator wrote: She has stepped up to the plate on several projects even board positions.  She is dedicated to making AWC the go-to organization for jobs and to help keep members involved.  She has innovate ideas and show true passion for the organization. 

Congratulations to Bev!

Vanguard Award

The Vanguard Award is bestowed in memory of former member Louise Roote. The Louise Roote Vanguard Award recognizes members for their outstanding contribution and involvement in the Topeka chapter of the Association for Women in Communications, and you must be a member for more than 2 years. This award winner also gets her accomplishments submitted to National AWC for its Chapter Star Award.

This year’s Vanguard Award winner was Amanda Schuster, current Topeka AWC president.  She was nominated for her leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the Topeka AWC chapter over the past year.  She was also nominated for stepping in as needed to get things done and attending all programs and meeting to ensure the success of the chapter.

One nominator wrote: She constantly goes above and beyond in her involvement with AWC.   She is dedicated to making AWC a great place for professionals in the communication field. Her ideas about the future of AWC prove she is committed long-term to making this organization great.  She is a great leader with ambition and vision. She is very understanding and has a team attitude.

Congratulations to Amanda!

To celebrate our members and have a little fun, Topeka AWC presented its annual "Members Only" event, May 19 from 5:30-7:30 pm. We met for networking and food/wine at Gizmo Pictures in downtown Topeka. After that, we received a tour of the new Gizmo Pictures studio and office space. We also presented our annual membership awards and voted on a board of directors slate for the 2011-2012 year. (For information on the 2011 award winners, visit the chapter history page in the members only section.)

After those fun activities and networking, we headed out on the "the town" to enjoy Top City Thursday with other community members. We also made a stop at Hazel Hill Chocolate for a "mini-tour" and some hand-dipped samples! It was a great time for all.