South Bay Women's Network

State of The Organization

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South Bay Women’s Board members — Denise Lowe, President; Dawn Rodden, Marketing Director; Ali DeRoche, Treasurer; and Deborah Howe; Vice President — extend their gratitude to all members for contributing to a successful 2024. For 41 years, SBWN has supported women on the Central Coast in their personal and professional journeys. Our achievements are a result of teamwork.

In 2024, we held 9 evening meetings and organized 3 special fundraising events, including the Garden Party, Spring Fling Tea Party, and Movie Night at The Bay Theater. We have awarded over 115 scholarships since 2000, with 6 scholarships of $1,000 each granted this year. Since 2002, the South Bay Women’s Network has participated in Adopt-a-Poll, where 21 volunteers contributed their time and donated their earnings to support our Scholarship Program in 2024.

Membership and participation are on the decline. Last year was challenging, and the board is eager to involve more members. We would like to hear feedback from our members about the organization and whether it’s essential to continue as a 501c3. There seems to be a lack of interest in joining the board, leading us to ask: should we keep going? Members need to make this decision. It is crucial to find ways to increase membership, boost participation, and motivate more individuals to take on leadership roles.

Is this organization important to you? If so, please complete this survey. If not, click on the survey and share why and give us your feedback on how we can improve.

Here is a link to the online SURVEY. Thank you for taking the time to participate.

We are actively seeking feedback from our members through our January meeting and this survey to understand your perspectives and concerns regarding the future of SBWN.

2024 Scholarship Presentation & Recipients

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South Bay Women’s Network (SBWN) hosted its Scholarship Presentation at The Benedict in Morro Bay this year. Members, guests, and scholarship recipients came together to celebrate six Cuesta College female re-entry students, each receiving a $1,000 scholarship.

The scholarship recipients represent a diverse range of backgrounds and academic pursuits. Each woman has demonstrated exceptional drive, resilience, and dedication to her educational goals. The scholarships will provide vital financial support, helping them overcome educational barriers and navigate the challenges associated with pursuing higher education.

The funds for these scholarships came from this year’s Garden Party Scholarship Benefit and the Clue the Movie fundraiser at the Bay Theater. We also received generous support from the SLO Women’s Network, SBWN members, and other supporters. This important effort shows SBWN’s strong dedication to empowering women in the South Bay community and helping them succeed in their education.

Thank you to our Scholarship Interview Committee – Valerie Parillo and Denise Lowe.

CLICK HERE FOR RECIPIENT VIDEOS

Scholarship recipients with SBWN Scholarship Chair Valerie Parillo
Alexis Aquia – Information Technology
Emily Jauregui – History with a special interest in Chicano/Indigenous Studies
Indira Ochoa – Psychiatric Technician
Samantha Morris – RN
Jamie Rose Annelle Villanueva – Addiction Treatment Studies
President Denise Lowe 

Not pictured: Tina Riley – RN

2024 Scholarship Recipients Videos

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Congratulations to our six winners: Alexis Aquia – Information Technology; Emily Jauregui – History with a special interest in Chicano/Indigenous Studies; Jamie Rose Annelle Villanueva – Addiction Treatment Studies; Samantha Morris – RN; Indira Ochoa – Psychiatric Technician; Tina Riley – RN

More photos and information

Tina Riley
Jamie Rose Annelle Villanueva
Samantha Morris

Spring Fling High Tea Fundraiser

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Stylish hats and elegant attire were plentiful at the Spring Fling High Tea Fundraiser, which took place on Sunday, April 21st. Attendees, including both members and guests, enjoyed a delightful high tea menu featuring finger sandwiches, soup, salad, tea party desserts, sparkling wine, and an assortment of teas. A special thank you goes to The Savory Palette for providing a wonderful meal. This was our first fundraiser of 2024, with the goal of raising funds for the SBWN Cuesta College Female Reentry Student Scholarship Program. The event successfully raised enough money for potentially two scholarships. Many thanks to all the wonderful women – and men – who joined us at the Spring Fling, as well as those who generously contributed their funds, gifts, and time to ensure the event’s success.

Thank you to Brittany Stewart from Limitless Skies: Custom Photobooth Services who kindly volunteered her time and photo booth for our event. Our guests had fun posing for their close-up shots. Brittany is our new social media intern.