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Posted: 12/08/99

A&M International Womens' Group Seeks Nominations for Women Trailbreakers

 

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A Texas A&M International University student group hopes to recognize Laredo women who have helped to break the trail for other women to advance in their careers, education and lives.

The Women Advancing Women organization is seeking nominations from the community for the fund-raising initiative which will support WAW activities. The deadline for submissions has been extended to Friday, Dec. 10.

A&M International professor English and faculty sponsor Dr. Norma Cantu said this is a first for the club, and it's believed to be a first for Laredo.

"This is a collaborative effort in which we hope to be able to recognize women as pathmakers or abre caminos for our city, through the publication of a calendar. Just like the local Commission On Women, we will recognize outstanding women in our community," she said.

Beatriz Guevara, a student involved in creating the project, said examples of such women in Laredo are everywhere.

"For this our first year we will concentrate on those women who are the first to hold positions in areas of business, education, the arts and politics. Examples of Laredo Abre Caminos would be State Senator Dr. Judith Zaffirini, and Laredo Mayor Betty Flores," Guevara explained.

Monica Munoz, another student helping the effort, said she is hopeful that the community will help the group to identify appropriate recipients.

"Many, many Laredo women have helped to break the trail for others to follow behind them. We encourage the community at large to take this effort to heart and help to make sure that all women who should be an example to us all are remembered and recognized," she added.

The nominations will be reviewed by WAW members and, if selected, included in the special commemorative calendar. The calendars will be sold through December and January by WAW members.

Funds raised will support WAW activities on and off campus. Nominations must be received by Dec. 10 and should include a brief biography of the candidate, a photo and contact information for the nominee and the individual making the nomination.

Nominations can sent to:

Women Advancing Women

Dr. Norma Cantu

c/o Texas A&M International University

5201 University Boulevard

Laredo, Texas 78041-1900

The WAW mission includes the promotion of awareness of issues affecting women in Laredo and the recognition of womens' contributions to the community.

It hopes to encourage mentoring, provide mutual support for women and girls, be a voice for equity, and champion lifelong learning and positive societal change through sponsorship of activities such as conferences, seminars, and guest speakers.

For additional information, contact Dr. Cantu at A&M International at 326.2156, or email to necantu@tamiu.edu or WAW President Beatriz Guevara at beaguevara@hotmail.com

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu