Over 100 Soroptimists of Midland Chase Region and their guests attended the Chase Golf Club last week to see Alyson Green of SI Walsall installed as their Regional President 2015-2016. The Change of Insignia event is an opportunity for Soroptimists in the area to congratulate and welcome their new President and her officers.
Outgoing President Carol Bailey of SI Wolverhampton passed on the chain of office and she, in turn, received her Immediate Past President’s badge and a gift from members along with thanks for her leadership over the previous year.
Regional President Alyson’s theme for the year is: Sustainability – our goal for the 21st Century. In her inaugural address she explained that we are all, in many walks of life, required to change and this is true in many organisations, including SI. However, if we don’t build sustainability into any change then we will, eventually, cease to exist. Inclusivity is part of
her aim for us to continue and flourish – making sure that all members are involved whenever and however they wish to be and all talents and skills utilised. Within this President Alyson invited members from several clubs to take part in the change of insignia, the first main event of her year. Carole Holdcroft, SI Cannock and Pat Cross SI Bilston gave their ‘Impressions of Conference’, Carole being a first time attendee whilst Pat has been to many in previous years – they were both moved, energised and motivated by the excellent speakers. The beautiful table decorations of flowers and fruits were arranged by Barbara Housiaux of SI Walsall; Kath
Smith, SI Newcastle and Edna Schafer-Hughes, SI Tamworth organised the raffle of the decorations which raised £280 for the Soroptimist Benevolent Fund; Mistress of Ceremonies was Trish Mellor, SI Cannock.
Throughout the year President Alyson will be encouraging all Soroptimists to be involved in the work of their clubs and the region in order to make a difference and to improve life for women and girls by educating, enabling and empowering them.
For more information about SI Midland Chase and the clubs within the Region please visit the website www.sigbi.org/midland-chase
Photo attached: Midland Chase Regional President Alyson Green