Westlake Brandeis unit marks anniversary
BY DAVE BENJAMIN Staff Writer

JACKSON - It is with much pride that the Westlake adult community chapter of the Brandeis University National Women's Committee is celebrating its first anniversary.

"With pride and amazement our copresident Ruth Badian recalls that evening last year when 15 women met in her home and founded the Westlake chapter," said member Ellen Keller.

Badian said the first year has been an exciting journey.

"We started with 15 members and have grown to 300," she said. "We have had fun, met new friends and worked for a worthy cause."

The first open meeting was held a year ago in July and was followed shortly by a larger meeting at which National Brandeis President Dr. Dottie Pierce addressed the new chapter.

This summer co-presidents Phyllis Van Wagenen and Badian received a certificate which honored the Westlake chapter as Best Chapter in Formation.

The Brandeis University National Women's Committee began in 1948 with its primary aim to raise funds for the Brandeis University library.

"Because of its success, the group now raises money for the Science for Life Institute in Waltham, Mass.," Keller said. "This institute researches the cause of and possible cures for Parkinson's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) and Alzheimer's disease. To date the Westlake chapter has raised over $7,500 for this center."

Keller said the chapter has sponsored a number of special events, discussions and study groups.

On Aug. 6 the chapter held a special anniversary meeting at the Knights of Columbus. More than 150 women attended the event, which included a comic skit, certificate presentations and the lighting of an anniversary cake by members of the executive board.

Honors were bestowed upon Rhonda Ames as the Member of the Year for her work as a non-board member who orchestrated the Day of Beauty and the Luncheon at the Mill fundraisers.

"It takes many different threads to make a tapestry," Keller said. "There are many women who have come together in camaraderie to make this initial year a success. The Westlake chapter of Brandeis is proud to have come so far and looks forward to the future."