GFWC Massachusetts Executive Committee
These are the members of the GFWC Massachusetts Executive Committee.
Members of Executive Committee (EC) serve as advisors to all GFWC Special Program Chairmen, Community Service Program Chairmen, Advancement Plan Chairmen and other State Committee Chairmen.
If you are a State Chairman, click here to see the Counselor list who is your liaison to EC.
Please contact them as needed.
Members of Executive Committee (EC) serve as advisors to all GFWC Special Program Chairmen, Community Service Program Chairmen, Advancement Plan Chairmen and other State Committee Chairmen.
If you are a State Chairman, click here to see the Counselor list who is your liaison to EC.
Please contact them as needed.
President Jen Nowak
[email protected]
Follow Jen on FaceBook
Bio:
To say that the General Federation of Women’s Clubs has been a vital part of my life for the last 30 years would be an understatement. In 1994, I was urged by my sister-in-law to come to her house for a quick meeting because she needed bodies to fill the room. Who knew, she was the membership chairman, in charge of recruitment for GFWC Wilbraham Junior Women’s Club! For many years I was an active member who participated in and organized many incredible programs and projects that made a huge difference in our community and beyond. Over time I held every club position the club offered. Two of my favorite WJWC projects are the Bunny Breakfast, a long-standing community event and our making of comfort pillows for breast cancer patients.
It was in 2007 I was asked to fill in as the Western District Representative, when the position became open mid-term. Then I held my first state chairman position on the Junior Board. In 2012 I started the ladder of Junior Membership Officers, 2018 I was the GFWC Massachusetts Director of Junior Clubs, which was an incredible experience. Those 2 years gave me the knowledge and confidence to continue my GFWC Leadership journey.
Immediately following the end of being the Director of Junior Clubs, the 2nd Vice President of GFWC Massachusetts needed a nominee. In May I concquored the second ladder in Massachusetts and I am honored to be the State President. Along the way I have found that being on the GFWC Board also brings a lot of joy to my life.
Volunteering has been an integral part of my entire life and offers me satisfaction and inspiration while making a difference. Becoming a member of GFWC has fed my soul with wonderful friendships that enhance every volunteer project I participate in.
In 1994 becoming a member of GFWC Wilbraham Junior Women’s Club was the best decision I have ever made.
[email protected]
Follow Jen on FaceBook
Bio:
To say that the General Federation of Women’s Clubs has been a vital part of my life for the last 30 years would be an understatement. In 1994, I was urged by my sister-in-law to come to her house for a quick meeting because she needed bodies to fill the room. Who knew, she was the membership chairman, in charge of recruitment for GFWC Wilbraham Junior Women’s Club! For many years I was an active member who participated in and organized many incredible programs and projects that made a huge difference in our community and beyond. Over time I held every club position the club offered. Two of my favorite WJWC projects are the Bunny Breakfast, a long-standing community event and our making of comfort pillows for breast cancer patients.
It was in 2007 I was asked to fill in as the Western District Representative, when the position became open mid-term. Then I held my first state chairman position on the Junior Board. In 2012 I started the ladder of Junior Membership Officers, 2018 I was the GFWC Massachusetts Director of Junior Clubs, which was an incredible experience. Those 2 years gave me the knowledge and confidence to continue my GFWC Leadership journey.
Immediately following the end of being the Director of Junior Clubs, the 2nd Vice President of GFWC Massachusetts needed a nominee. In May I concquored the second ladder in Massachusetts and I am honored to be the State President. Along the way I have found that being on the GFWC Board also brings a lot of joy to my life.
Volunteering has been an integral part of my entire life and offers me satisfaction and inspiration while making a difference. Becoming a member of GFWC has fed my soul with wonderful friendships that enhance every volunteer project I participate in.
In 1994 becoming a member of GFWC Wilbraham Junior Women’s Club was the best decision I have ever made.
First Vice President Terry Rouvalis
[email protected]
Follow Terry on FaceBook
Bio:
I have been a member of the Braintree Women’s Club since 2008. Immediately upon joining the club I was recruited to be a backstage Manager for the club’s Guest Night Production where I quickly learned a new skill, one I had never imagined. From there I advanced through various chairman and executive board positions which eventually culminated in being elected president. One of my favorites and most satisfying projects was working with our Veteran’s Committee to provide a microwave, a sewing machine, and craft supplies for a specialized ward at the Brockton VA Hospital treating female veteran’s suffering from PTSD.
Of course, as club president I quickly became involved with GFWC Massachusetts, again holding various positions starting with filling the chairmanship for the Photo and Writing Contests, as well as Chairing Membership, Bylaws and Resolutions before being elected to Recording Secretary.
Belonging to GFWCMA has also given me the opportunity to attend LEADS where I earned to advance all the skills I have accumulated over these past 16 years to better serve my community as well as the membership. Aside from these opportunities I have had the privilege to make some wonderful friendships and meet some great women from all over the country. Volunteering, learning, meeting new friends, and having fun, what more could a person want?
Now I am on to a new challenge as 1st Vice President, and I am looking forward to all the position has to offer in my quest to Live the Volunteer Spirit.
[email protected]
Follow Terry on FaceBook
Bio:
I have been a member of the Braintree Women’s Club since 2008. Immediately upon joining the club I was recruited to be a backstage Manager for the club’s Guest Night Production where I quickly learned a new skill, one I had never imagined. From there I advanced through various chairman and executive board positions which eventually culminated in being elected president. One of my favorites and most satisfying projects was working with our Veteran’s Committee to provide a microwave, a sewing machine, and craft supplies for a specialized ward at the Brockton VA Hospital treating female veteran’s suffering from PTSD.
Of course, as club president I quickly became involved with GFWC Massachusetts, again holding various positions starting with filling the chairmanship for the Photo and Writing Contests, as well as Chairing Membership, Bylaws and Resolutions before being elected to Recording Secretary.
Belonging to GFWCMA has also given me the opportunity to attend LEADS where I earned to advance all the skills I have accumulated over these past 16 years to better serve my community as well as the membership. Aside from these opportunities I have had the privilege to make some wonderful friendships and meet some great women from all over the country. Volunteering, learning, meeting new friends, and having fun, what more could a person want?
Now I am on to a new challenge as 1st Vice President, and I am looking forward to all the position has to offer in my quest to Live the Volunteer Spirit.
Second Vice President A. Elaine Brickman
[email protected]
Follow Elaine on FaceBook
Bio:
I began my GFWC journey in 1984 when my mother invited me to join the GFWC Windsor Locks WC (Connecticut), of which she was a member. My mother had many positions in the club, including club president, which inspired me to take on officer positions. I attended CT state conventions and NER conferences.
In 2000 our family moved to New Jersey and I joined the GFWC Bayshore WC. There I met Mary Pat Marcello and the germ of the idea of becoming State President was born. I was club president & was on a state committee, attended state conventions and MAR conferences. We moved yet again to Illinois in 2004 and I joined the GFWC Mokena WC. I took on officer positions in the club and GFWC Illinois District 11, including Dean of Chairman and President. Do you see a theme here?
In 2011, we moved to Colorado and I joined the GFWC Southwest Region WC. I was club president, Peaks District officer and selected as the LEADS Ambassador in 2014. I attended my first GFWC Convention in Arizona. The strength of 800 women reciting the Collect was empowering and inspiring. I chaired Arts & Culture, Home Life and Conservation while in Colorado. One of the club's favorite projects is the Tampon Party. Tampons and pads are collected and bundled into a 5 days’ supply. Feminine hygiene supplies are not eligible to be purchased with food stamps. Over 600 bundles are donated to The Action Center of Jefferson County for homeless and low-income women.
We moved to Maine in 2016. I joined the GFWC Westbrook WC. By this time I was antsy to begin the ladder to State President. I was nominated to Recording Secretary in the 2018-2020 administration. In 2020 I became the 2nd VP/Dean of Chairman and finally club president. You know what's coming…
We moved to Massachusetts in 2021. I joined the Harwich WC and became the GFWC MA Membership Chairman in 2022. And here I am now, your GFWC MA 2nd VP and member of the GFWC Bay State Contemporary Club. I am excited to serve the GFWC Massachusetts clubwoman.
[email protected]
Follow Elaine on FaceBook
Bio:
I began my GFWC journey in 1984 when my mother invited me to join the GFWC Windsor Locks WC (Connecticut), of which she was a member. My mother had many positions in the club, including club president, which inspired me to take on officer positions. I attended CT state conventions and NER conferences.
In 2000 our family moved to New Jersey and I joined the GFWC Bayshore WC. There I met Mary Pat Marcello and the germ of the idea of becoming State President was born. I was club president & was on a state committee, attended state conventions and MAR conferences. We moved yet again to Illinois in 2004 and I joined the GFWC Mokena WC. I took on officer positions in the club and GFWC Illinois District 11, including Dean of Chairman and President. Do you see a theme here?
In 2011, we moved to Colorado and I joined the GFWC Southwest Region WC. I was club president, Peaks District officer and selected as the LEADS Ambassador in 2014. I attended my first GFWC Convention in Arizona. The strength of 800 women reciting the Collect was empowering and inspiring. I chaired Arts & Culture, Home Life and Conservation while in Colorado. One of the club's favorite projects is the Tampon Party. Tampons and pads are collected and bundled into a 5 days’ supply. Feminine hygiene supplies are not eligible to be purchased with food stamps. Over 600 bundles are donated to The Action Center of Jefferson County for homeless and low-income women.
We moved to Maine in 2016. I joined the GFWC Westbrook WC. By this time I was antsy to begin the ladder to State President. I was nominated to Recording Secretary in the 2018-2020 administration. In 2020 I became the 2nd VP/Dean of Chairman and finally club president. You know what's coming…
We moved to Massachusetts in 2021. I joined the Harwich WC and became the GFWC MA Membership Chairman in 2022. And here I am now, your GFWC MA 2nd VP and member of the GFWC Bay State Contemporary Club. I am excited to serve the GFWC Massachusetts clubwoman.
Corresponding Secretary Darlene Coutu
[email protected]
Bio:
In 2005, my neighbor asked me to attend a talent show in which she planned to compete. I attended the show and, while I was enjoying the talent in the show, my husband spent a great deal of time in the theater lobby enjoying home-baked goodies! While speaking with two women in the lobby, he learned that the show was sponsored by the GFWC Pepperell Woman’s Club, a group of women who were running the event as a scholarship fundraiser. And, or course, these women baked all the treats in the lobby which were made available in exchange for a small donation of choice. That’s when my husband’s “new friends” suggested I join the club. On the back page of the program was a membership application which I eventually filled out and joined the club. Since that time, I have served as Director, Secretary, and eventually, Club President of the GFWC Pepperell Woman’s Club. My favorite club project is the talent show where I became the Master of Ceremonies at a show where I was once a spectator!
My curiosity expanded to GFWC Massachusetts where I met many of my current federation friends. I joined several Massachusetts clubs over the next few years including the GFWC Bay State Contemporary Club, Ladies’ Physiological Institute of Boston and Vicinity, GFWC Boston Parliamentary Law Club, 1898 Society, and The Presidents’ Club of Massachusetts. I enjoyed the following positions at the state level: North Central District Director, Bylaws Committee, Resolutions Committee, Headquarters Commission, Scholarship Committee and Chairman, Memorial Education Committee, and GFWC Massachusetts 2020-2022 Treasurer. I had the privilege of becoming a member of the New England Region Fundraising Committee. I have been the Editor of GFWC MA Federation TOPICS since 2019 and am currently proudly serving in the 2024-2026 administration as the GFWC MA Corresponding Secretary.
[email protected]
Bio:
In 2005, my neighbor asked me to attend a talent show in which she planned to compete. I attended the show and, while I was enjoying the talent in the show, my husband spent a great deal of time in the theater lobby enjoying home-baked goodies! While speaking with two women in the lobby, he learned that the show was sponsored by the GFWC Pepperell Woman’s Club, a group of women who were running the event as a scholarship fundraiser. And, or course, these women baked all the treats in the lobby which were made available in exchange for a small donation of choice. That’s when my husband’s “new friends” suggested I join the club. On the back page of the program was a membership application which I eventually filled out and joined the club. Since that time, I have served as Director, Secretary, and eventually, Club President of the GFWC Pepperell Woman’s Club. My favorite club project is the talent show where I became the Master of Ceremonies at a show where I was once a spectator!
My curiosity expanded to GFWC Massachusetts where I met many of my current federation friends. I joined several Massachusetts clubs over the next few years including the GFWC Bay State Contemporary Club, Ladies’ Physiological Institute of Boston and Vicinity, GFWC Boston Parliamentary Law Club, 1898 Society, and The Presidents’ Club of Massachusetts. I enjoyed the following positions at the state level: North Central District Director, Bylaws Committee, Resolutions Committee, Headquarters Commission, Scholarship Committee and Chairman, Memorial Education Committee, and GFWC Massachusetts 2020-2022 Treasurer. I had the privilege of becoming a member of the New England Region Fundraising Committee. I have been the Editor of GFWC MA Federation TOPICS since 2019 and am currently proudly serving in the 2024-2026 administration as the GFWC MA Corresponding Secretary.
Treasurer Katie Robey
[email protected]
Bio:
GFWC became a part of who I am in 1996 when I joined my local club, GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman's Club. Although involved in the community as an elected member of the school committee, I was able to give back in a different way through the hands-on volunteer service as well as the fundraising to make financial contributions to the community. Although we haven’t done it for a longtime, I fondly remember helping at our Annual Easter Bunny Breakfast. A new event, Trunk or Treat, first held in 2022, has become another favorite as we provide a safe, friendly space for kids to dress up in their Halloween costumes and go from "trunk to trunk" and get treats.
My term as club president in 2007 opened my eyes to the bigger picture of GFWC and I was eager to explore opportunities at the state and beyond. It took a while, but I was finally able to take advantage of GFWC's leadership training as the GFWC MA LEADS candidate in 2016 and encourage members to apply for this amazing training opportunity. I served as GFWC MA Director of Junior Clubs 2020-2022 alongside GFWC MA President Donna Shibley as we learned to navigate the new rules of meetings during COVID. I gained more leadership skills and met new friends serving as a member of GFWC's Board of Directors as GFWC Advocates for Children Chairman 2022-2024. I also served as GFWC MA treasurer 2022-2024. Fortunately, this position is one where you can serve a 2nd term. I look forward to another two years serving as treasurer tracking the fundraising at the state level and dispersing scholarships, grants and donations to GFWC Affiliates as our collective volunteer service enhances the lives of others as we Live the Volunteer Spirit.
[email protected]
Bio:
GFWC became a part of who I am in 1996 when I joined my local club, GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman's Club. Although involved in the community as an elected member of the school committee, I was able to give back in a different way through the hands-on volunteer service as well as the fundraising to make financial contributions to the community. Although we haven’t done it for a longtime, I fondly remember helping at our Annual Easter Bunny Breakfast. A new event, Trunk or Treat, first held in 2022, has become another favorite as we provide a safe, friendly space for kids to dress up in their Halloween costumes and go from "trunk to trunk" and get treats.
My term as club president in 2007 opened my eyes to the bigger picture of GFWC and I was eager to explore opportunities at the state and beyond. It took a while, but I was finally able to take advantage of GFWC's leadership training as the GFWC MA LEADS candidate in 2016 and encourage members to apply for this amazing training opportunity. I served as GFWC MA Director of Junior Clubs 2020-2022 alongside GFWC MA President Donna Shibley as we learned to navigate the new rules of meetings during COVID. I gained more leadership skills and met new friends serving as a member of GFWC's Board of Directors as GFWC Advocates for Children Chairman 2022-2024. I also served as GFWC MA treasurer 2022-2024. Fortunately, this position is one where you can serve a 2nd term. I look forward to another two years serving as treasurer tracking the fundraising at the state level and dispersing scholarships, grants and donations to GFWC Affiliates as our collective volunteer service enhances the lives of others as we Live the Volunteer Spirit.
Director of Junior Clubs Beth McKeon
[email protected]
Follow Beth on FaceBook
Bio:
I became a member of GFWC in December of 2012. Of course, I had felt like a member long before that, as I grew up with GFWC MA through my mom who had been a member since the mid 1980s. I became Education chairman for GFWC MA Marlborough Junior Woman’s Club right away, and my leadership journey grew from there. I joined the state board for GFWC MA Junior Membership in 2016 for Martha Casassa’s administration as Homelife chairman. It was an incredible experience and one that showed me what I was capable of accomplishing.
I was selected as the GFWC MA LEADS candidate in 2019 and attended my first National Convention in Austin Texas. It was truly humbling to meet so many amazing women from all around the country who were there to celebrate all the tremendous work done in so many communities.
One of my favorite projects from GFWC MJWC is our Teacher Appreciation letter writing contest. The club puts out a challenge to students in Marlborough and Hudson to write a letter of appreciation to a teacher that has inspired them. As Education chairman, I was able to read all of the heartfelt letters from students at all grade levels. As a club, we would honor one student and their teacher from the elementary level, middle school, and high school at our Junior Business meeting.
As a teacher myself for the last seventeen years, it is heartwarming to see students recognize the role their teachers have played in their lives. And as an educator I see the impact poverty can have on a child’s education. Which is why I have chosen the organization, Planting the Seed as my Director’s project. This organization gives out fully-stuffed backpacks at the beginning of the school year in Worcester and other central Massachusetts towns to students in need. They also put on massive toy drives each holiday season to help bring joy to children who may not otherwise receive any presents. Helping kids reach their true potential is something I have always been passionate about, and being able to help through my new role as Director of GFWC MA Junior Membership is an honor.
[email protected]
Follow Beth on FaceBook
Bio:
I became a member of GFWC in December of 2012. Of course, I had felt like a member long before that, as I grew up with GFWC MA through my mom who had been a member since the mid 1980s. I became Education chairman for GFWC MA Marlborough Junior Woman’s Club right away, and my leadership journey grew from there. I joined the state board for GFWC MA Junior Membership in 2016 for Martha Casassa’s administration as Homelife chairman. It was an incredible experience and one that showed me what I was capable of accomplishing.
I was selected as the GFWC MA LEADS candidate in 2019 and attended my first National Convention in Austin Texas. It was truly humbling to meet so many amazing women from all around the country who were there to celebrate all the tremendous work done in so many communities.
One of my favorite projects from GFWC MJWC is our Teacher Appreciation letter writing contest. The club puts out a challenge to students in Marlborough and Hudson to write a letter of appreciation to a teacher that has inspired them. As Education chairman, I was able to read all of the heartfelt letters from students at all grade levels. As a club, we would honor one student and their teacher from the elementary level, middle school, and high school at our Junior Business meeting.
As a teacher myself for the last seventeen years, it is heartwarming to see students recognize the role their teachers have played in their lives. And as an educator I see the impact poverty can have on a child’s education. Which is why I have chosen the organization, Planting the Seed as my Director’s project. This organization gives out fully-stuffed backpacks at the beginning of the school year in Worcester and other central Massachusetts towns to students in need. They also put on massive toy drives each holiday season to help bring joy to children who may not otherwise receive any presents. Helping kids reach their true potential is something I have always been passionate about, and being able to help through my new role as Director of GFWC MA Junior Membership is an honor.
GFWC MA honors our Past Presidents and Past Directors of Junior Clubs.
GFWC MA Past State Presidents ~ May 4, 2024
GFWC MA Past State Presidents ~ April 30, 2022
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GFWC MA Junior Membership 100th Anniversary Celebration ~ May 3, 2024
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GFWC MA Past Directors of Junior Clubs ~ May 4, 2024
GFWC MA Past Directors of Junior Clubs ~
April 24, 2019
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