August 2023
Dear Current and Future DAWN Members,
It is an honor to author my first annual president’s letter for the Delaware ACE Women’s Network, known as DAWN. As I begin my two-year term as president, I am determined to uphold the values, principles, and standards established by my predecessors. This position has been held by only the most talented and industrious women working in higher education in Delaware. I have some major heels to fill, but fortunately I am not alone. Our Executive Committee (EC) is made up of 16 women leaders who are the heart and soul of this organization. These women handle the day-to-day business of DAWN, host events, conduct workshops, mentor young professionals, celebrate women leaders, and inspire us through podcasts and social media posts. The women of the EC represent Delaware State University, Delaware Technical and Community College, Goldey-Beacom College, University of Delaware, Widener University Delaware Law School, and Wilmington University.
Some of those EC members were recently elected to serve as officers:
- Vice President Dr. Karen Sheats, Wilmington University
- Treasurer Ms. Deb Harbaugh, Goldey-Beacom College
- Secretary Ms. Joy Jordan, University of Delaware
DAWN is a statewide chapter of the National American Council on Education (ACE) Women’s Network, whose mission is to develop programs that identify, develop, encourage, advance, link, and support the careers of women in higher education. DAWN is also committed to the ideals of supporting and advancing women leaders in higher education in our state. To that end, I am happy to announce we have a full slate of events specifically designed with our DAWN members in mind. Please check out our upcoming events and mark your calendar to attend as many as possible.
Members will be able to attend DAWN events at a reduced rate or free of charge. Be sure to join or renew your membership today and save $10. From now until August 31, you can become a member of DAWN for only $20. Beginning September 1, individual membership dues will increase to $30. Visit the DAWN website to join at the discounted rate.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to our outgoing President Dr. Victoria Chang, academic counselor at Delaware Technical Community College. Dr. Chang led DAWN through our post-pandemic transition that included in-person meetings and events. Over the past two years she has served as a leader, role model, friend, and mentor. I also wish to extend my appreciation to our presidential sponsor Dr. LaVerne Harmon, President, Wilmington University for always supporting DAWN and the women who serve on the Executive Committee.
Best wishes for a successful academic year and I hope to see you at our next DAWN event.
Yours truly,
Kathy Murphy, MPA
DAWN President
Delaware ACE Women’s Network 