VOTES FOR INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN FROM THE RIF OF NOVA COMMUNITY
RIF of NOVA's 2020 Appeal, VOTES FOR WOMEN -- VOTES FOR BOOKS, celebrated the centenary of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which gave many U.S. women the right to vote. Below are some of the wonderful stories of inspirational women who have made a difference in the lives of RIF of NOVA supporters. Thank you for sharing!
From Kathleen O'Sullivan Keane:
I cast my vote in memory of Mary O'Leary O'Sullivan, my grandmother (shown in photo above). She died in 1935 so I never knew her, but the stories about her are family legend. Born in 1876, in County Kerry, Ireland, she came to New York City in the late 1890s, where she met and married my grandfather, Florence O'Sullivan, also a native of County Kerry. He became a New York City fireman, and they lived on the upper east side of Manhattan. They had 10 children, but only five lived to adulthood.
My grandmother organized other Irish immigrant women to march for voting rights in New York City in the early 1900s. My father, who was born in 1908, often recalled marching with his mother for "the vote." He recounted long days of marching and listening to speeches. He would be holding onto his mother with one hand while carrying a sign with the other. His mother would encourage groups of immigrant women to come out by telling them that the organizers "only wanted the good looking ones to come" -- by our standards politically incorrect, but ultimately effective! Her surviving children grew into successful professional adults. They had few toys but many books, and her love of reading has been passed on to the next generations.
She would have loved an organization like RIF, and I am proud to give to it in her memory. The photo I have provided was taken in Central Park of my grandmother with two of her sons -- James, who did not live to adulthood, and Daniel, who would become Chief Inspector of the New York City Police Department.
From Kathleen O'Sullivan Keane:
I cast my vote in memory of Mary O'Leary O'Sullivan, my grandmother (shown in photo above). She died in 1935 so I never knew her, but the stories about her are family legend. Born in 1876, in County Kerry, Ireland, she came to New York City in the late 1890s, where she met and married my grandfather, Florence O'Sullivan, also a native of County Kerry. He became a New York City fireman, and they lived on the upper east side of Manhattan. They had 10 children, but only five lived to adulthood.
My grandmother organized other Irish immigrant women to march for voting rights in New York City in the early 1900s. My father, who was born in 1908, often recalled marching with his mother for "the vote." He recounted long days of marching and listening to speeches. He would be holding onto his mother with one hand while carrying a sign with the other. His mother would encourage groups of immigrant women to come out by telling them that the organizers "only wanted the good looking ones to come" -- by our standards politically incorrect, but ultimately effective! Her surviving children grew into successful professional adults. They had few toys but many books, and her love of reading has been passed on to the next generations.
She would have loved an organization like RIF, and I am proud to give to it in her memory. The photo I have provided was taken in Central Park of my grandmother with two of her sons -- James, who did not live to adulthood, and Daniel, who would become Chief Inspector of the New York City Police Department.
From Dora Sue Black: |
From Lillian "Willie" Young: |
 Sheryl Asen with grandmother Rose Weintraub in 1996
From Sheryl Asen:
My grandmother, Rose Weintraub, was an inspiration to many, and although she passed away 20 years ago, her influence eternally permeates my being. Gram's formal education ended after 6th grade, but she kept learning, aided by being an enthusiastic, consistent patron of her neighborhood library. Throughout her long life, my grandmother would read, read, read, listen, think, be strategic, debate, discover, grow, read some more, and always radiate love. She was my champion and my learning muse. Every time I open a book, my angel Gram flaps her wings and winks. |
 "Brownie" with grandson Alex
From Christian Colton:
After my mom, Mabel "Brownie" Colton, retired from her job working at the Suffolk County Health Department, she volunteered at our local library three times a week to teach reading and writing to adults. I spoke with her about it, and what resonated most with me was her empathy for her students who were so embarrassed that they had never learned to read and her admiration for these new friends who persevered and ultimately succeeded. She was so very proud of each one of her students. My mom was a person always willing to help, and I think her own love of books and writing led her to this mission, which she did for many years. |
 Grandmother Della Logsdon with grandpa Henry Logsdon
From Liz Promen:
My grandmother, Della Logsdon, born in 1884, never had a chance for much schooling herself, but she instilled a passion for learning in her eight children, believing that education was the key for each child to reach his or her highest potential. Although they grew up as sharecroppers' children on a small, hardscrabble farm in central Ohio, her children graduated from high school. Most went on to college and some obtained graduate degrees and achieved national recognition in their chosen fields. My grandmother's passion for education continues to manifest itself in succeeding generations. She inspires me to support RIF of NOVA in its efforts to provide books to children in equally poor families, helping give these youngsters a chance to reach their highest potential.  Susan Akroyd (m) with First Lady Barbara Bush and Parklawn teachers and faculty
From Linda Goldberg:
Susan Akroyd has been a friend and colleague for years. She was the principal at Parklawn Elementary School for over 30 years, and prior to that she was an amazing reading teacher. Parklawn is a very diverse school with many ESL students. Her school participated in RIF in the early days. When RIF lost (federal) funding, so did Parklawn. She and her staff had a significant outreach to the community, and she ensured that the best training and technology was available to her teachers. She was a long term member of the Greater Washington Reading Council and served on their board. Her school won the National Title I Distinguished School Award. Her women's club participated in Baby Bundles, delivering books to parents of newborns in the community. She collected books in the community so the school could give them out to the children. First Lady Barbara Bush visited Parklawn Elementary School. In the photo, Susan Akroyd is in the middle, surrounded by other teachers and faculty.  Elinor P. Williams
From Audrey June:
I vote in memory of my mom, Elinor P. Williams. Every time I engage in my favorite hobby — READING! — I think of my mom. She read countless books to me as a child and taught me to read before I went to kindergarten. I’ve been making my way through stacks of books ever since. My mom also instilled in me a love for my favorite repository of books: public libraries. For nearly 30 years, she worked as a reference librarian in the public library system in the city where I grew up. I was fascinated by the work she did and because I was at the library so much, I always felt like it was my second home. Even today, public libraries are my happy place, in part because they bring to mind fond memories of my mom. I’m so thankful for the groundwork she laid for me to become an avid reader. Passing along her love of reading was one of her greatest gifts to me. I know that without that gift — and her unconditional love — I wouldn’t be the person I am today.  Heather Feagins teaching 4th grade
From Robert Smith:
I cast my vote in honor of my daughter, Heather Feagins (shown in the photo teaching a 4th grade student behind a protective Covid shield). Heather teaches in Texas and is one of my daughters. She holds a Masters in reading and certification as a reading specialist. She also holds certifications in special education and ESOL. Her greatest love is teaching reading and developing enthusiasm for reading and writing among her students. She is in her 26th year of teaching, 21 of which have been at Shadow Forest Elementary School in the Humble Independent School District. She also taught at Jenkins Elementary School in the Spring Independent School District for five years, and was chosen as a teacher of the year in both schools. Both school districts are located in the Houston area. From JoAnn and Jim Abrams: From Penelope Holland: 
From McKenzie Watt (5th grade):
I want to be an author when I grow up. Kimberly Brubaker Bradly wrote two books called The War That Saved My Life and The War that I Finally Won. I could not put these books down! They were incredible! I think Ms. Brubaker has a real talent for storytelling, and also her characters teach about the importance of being a strong woman--no matter your circumstances. The main character in these stories is named Ada Smith. She has disability, but she learned how to ride a horse, and she even caught a German spy. When I think I can't do something because I am not big enough, or old enough, or smart enough, or not good enough in math, I think about Ms. Brubaker's characters, and it reminds me that I can do anything I set my mind to! After reading these books, I set big goals for myself because I know that I can be and do anything! #girlpower #girlsrule From Marshall and Melanie Snyder: From Jennifer Hughes:  Judi Martino and mom Mackall Blincoe
From Judi Martino:
I cast my vote in memory of my mother Mackall Blincoe because she introduced me to books at a young age, helping me to learn to read before I started first grade. I was the child who read under the covers at night and remember reading Gone with the Wind in only three days. Mama read constantly. She liked romance novels, some with mysteries worked into the plot. I like mysteries, too, and treasure my entire set of Nancy Drew books. I read almost all of the books Mama had collected from 1915 forward, like her Prudence books, much like the series books the kids read now. Mama kept reading until she was just too ill to hold even her paperback books. It was then I read to her as she had read to me as a child and when I was very ill in my teens. I am proud to say I am known as the book lady within our family, with children and friends, too. Mama always told me that the "gift" of reading was the greatest gift you could ever give yourself and your children.  Chris McLaughlin reading with grandson Colin
From Maureen McLaughlin:
My mom, Chris Tully McLaughlin, is truly a "phenomenal woman," to use Maya Angelou's words. She instilled a love of reading in me and in my four siblings, which helped shape us in myriad ways. She taught Great Books at our schools, constantly took us to the library, and encouraged us to read challenging books and discuss them with her. All of her nine grandchildren are vigorous readers, and she has influenced all of them in this. As a RIF of NOVA board member, she continues to spread her passion for reading to other children and has inspired me to help fuel the fire in my own son! My mom is a lifelong learner! 
(l-r) Lucinda, Jennifer, and Catherine Robb
From Lynda Robb:
I cast my vote in honor of my three daughters, Lucinda, Jennifer, and Catherine Robb. All three love books and would want all children to have them. For many years, they have supported RIF in order to get books into the hands of children. From Judith Diederick: From Terry Bratt: From Nada Brillante:  John McLaughlin and mom Isabel
From John McLaughlin:
I cast my vote in honor of and in memory of my mom, Isabel McLaughlin. because she raised me and my three brothers after my dad died early. She taught us how to overcome difficulties in life through faith, courage and strength. Her example of going to work each day to support us was inspirational and taught us the meaning of love for family. Mom was a voracious reader of books, both fictional and non-fictional, poetry, and prose. She taught us a love of books through buying books for us and many trips to the library. She ensured that we all received a college education and beyond. Neither I nor my brothers would be where we are today without her love, guidance, and support. From Ray Berube: 
Nancy King (l) and mom Shirley Garvin celebrate her mom's 96th birthday in June 2019
From Nancy King:
I cast my vote in memory of my mother, Shirley Garvin, because she was always a reader, modeling the love of a good book and the importance of reading the most interesting of news. As an adult, when I read a good book, she often read it, too, and we talked about the author's use of the language. Favorites we shared included Pat Conroy's The Prince of Tides and Beach Music and Katharine Graham's Personal History. As we both aged, mom sent frequent large envelopes filled with newsy letters and articles she had read and clipped, sure that I would also enjoy reading and learning from them. Since her death, I keep finding letter packets I had tucked in countless 'safe' places. Each is a treasured reminder of her well-lived life, her joy in sharing her reading, and her love for me. |
From Dede Macekura:  "Gram" (r) with Krista Hunt and great granddaughter Carly
From Krista Hunt:
Every time I wore my soft pink fuzzy sweater, I felt like I was being hugged by my "Gram," Mary Keathley. I was in her kitchen a lot growing up, eating her homemade Rice Krispie treats and drinking root beer floats. She "put up" the most delicious tomato juice in Mason jars from tomatoes grown in her farm garden. She was an excellent seamstress, and I still have some of the clothes she made for my dolls. I love sewing, too. It is said that you will not always remember what someone says but will always remember how they made you feel. With Gram, all of us felt so loved. From Rachel Thompson:  "Granny" -- Helen Carter Spurgeon
From Julie McKinney:
My "Granny," Helen Carter Spurgeon, was the inspiring woman and great motivation in my life. Born in 1898, Granny accomplished things that were not customary for women in rural Indiana or many, many places in the U.S. at that time. A farm girl, she went to college, Earlham College, and played women's sports there as well, while attaining her bachelor''s degree in education. Later, she earned her master's degree, too. Coming of age at the time of the passage of women's right to vote and being a part of that movement, she was a novice and informed voter. Through her life, she experienced many "firsts" in our country. Granny became a teacher dedicated to elementary and junior high children when teaching positions for women were scarce or unheard of. During World War II, she was asked to fill the teaching position of a male teacher who left as a soldier to fight in the war. Her teaching career then extended into her early 80s. Along the way, she raised two daughters primarily on her own and put them each through college. One of her daughters became a beloved teacher at the historic Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, giving her heart, time, and soul to many at-risk students and young adults. I became an educator of elementary school children as well for 20 years. I am so grateful and inspired by Helen Carter Spurgeon's fearlessness to step into unknown territory and also to move forward in giving her gift of teaching to so many others whom she inspired to carry on.  Two moms -- Laura (l) and Ricky (r)
From Sheryl Leeds:
My two mothers are my heroes! Last March, I discovered who my birth mother was, when her children and I connected on a DNA site. I had always known I was adopted, but imagine my shock when I found out that Laura, my aunt, was also my birth mother! She had to give me up because of illness, and her brother (my biological uncle) and his wife Ricky adopted my at birth because Laura could not take care of me. It was a family secret that my parents never shared with me. The sisters-in-law are in this picture, several years before my birth. Laura is my hero because she gave me up, knowing I would have a better life with her brother and his wife. Ricky is my hero because she raised me with unconditional love. Both made me the person I am today, and I will always be grateful to them both. From Melba Smith-Dudley 
Delta Sigma Theta members in 1913. (Courtesy: deltasigmatheta.org)
The Delta Sigma Theta sorority was founded in January 1913 by 22 collegiate women at Howard University. These students wanted to use their collective strength to promote academic excellence and to provide assistance to those in need. In March 1913, the sorority's founders performed their first public act. Despite discouragement from those who did not want them to participate, along with the tremendous risk of violence and potential harm, all 22 took part in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington, D.C. For more on the Deltas and their courage and commitment to attaining the right to vote for black women, please see this article from the Washington Post.
 The Akroyd family
From Susan Akroyd:
I vote in memory of my mom, Jane Akroyd. Mom came to the U.S. from Sweden at the age of two, entering with her mom through Ellis Island. When she started elementary school, they skipped her a grade level even though she had originally spoken no English! She loved learning and particularly reading. She met my dad on Bradley Beach in New Jersey, where he was walking his dog. He left for the Pacific Fleet during World War II, and they married upon his return. My brother was born with a heart defect and lived to be age 15. Mom let him lead as normal a life as possible, never doting, but always there for him and all of us. Books filled my brother's room and mine, too. We loved books so much that I started a library in the garage for the neighborhood. There were hundreds of books! My mom encouraged me every step of the way!  Aunt Ruth McDonald (l) and Rita Blodgett
From Rita Blodgett:
I cast my vote in memory of my aunt, Ruth McDonald, because she was such a strong woman who was able to overcome so much adversity in her life. Born in Germany, she came to the U.S. when sponsored by her aunt and uncle, who lived in Cincinnati, Ohio. There, she met and married my father's brother. Shortly after they married, my uncle enlisted in the Navy, and while he was gone, she gave birth to a child, Nancy, who was less than a year old when he was killed. As a single mother, Aunt Ruth moved to Florida, where her aunt and uncle were living. There, she trained to be a dental technician, a job she had until she retired. During this time, her only daughter, at 16, was killed when walking home from school by a drunk driver. In spite of this tragedy, she remained strong and continued to live a busy and fulfilling life -- even surviving cancer. She continued to be close to my family; we were very supportive as a result of the hardships and tragedies she endured. I went to Florida to be with her while she had heart surgery at the age of 86. However, her life ended during the surgery, which she was not able to survive. However, she was always a role model and a source of strength for all who knew her, including myself.  Ramunda Young (red shirt) with her mom, Brenda (2nd from right), sisters, and niece
From Ramunda Young:
My vote is for my mom, Brenda. She and my dad raised the four of us with intention, love, values, and a desire to be spiritually grounded. To this day, I have no idea how she managed to keep us all thriving while also working at our elementary school as an administrator. She loved working at our school primarily so she’d have summers off to spend with us while we were out of school. Fond memories of reading were when we’d all sit in a little circle on the floor and have Bible study. All our Bibles laid flat open while we each took turns reading scriptures and deepening our knowledge of the Word. As the oldest, several of those times I’d be the one “acting up,” not wanting to read and causing a ruckus in the group, lol, but I am eternally grateful for the powerful seeds that were planted during those moments. Seeds of love, family, togetherness, spirituality, learning, and, of course, reading. I stand in gratitude for you, Mom, and for your tremendous sacrifices which allowed each of us to grow up and thrive.  Jackie and Lisa Keathley celebrate their shared birthday
From Lisa Keathley:
I was born on my mom, Jackie Keathley's birthday, so we have a very special connection. This past August, she turned 95 years young, and we were lucky enough to be together despite Covid-19. A great believer in education, Mom read to my sister and me every night. Our favorite was a folktale called The Teeny-Tiny Tale. Mom loudly read a phrase from that book -- "Give me my bone!" -- which sent us into peals of laughter. Mom went to Michigan State University and was the first in her family to get a college degree. Her studies in sociology led to a position at the YWCA as a program director, developing and leading programs for youth. We have been best friends for decades, but when I was 15 and unable to get a summer job, there was a rough patch. Mom usually supported me making my own decisions, but this particular summer, she insisted that I take an advanced typing class. Boy, was I upset. As it turned out, though, Mom was right. I became a journalist, a career in which fast typing, under deadline pressure, is a real asset. I have thanked my mom for years for "making" me take that class and giving me what turned out to be such a special gift. My mom is still as brilliant and inspirational as she was...well, the day I was born!  Ann Capik Tully with daughters Christine (l)
and Veronica (r)
From Chris McLaughlin:
I cast my vote in honor of Sister Sheila de Paul, a Sister of Charity, my most memorable high school teacher. As my senior year English teacher, she enhanced my love of reading and introduced me to critical thinking. As the moderator for our yearbook staff, she guided me through countless hours and months of work in creating a memorable product. I learned the value of creativity and tenacity in working hard on a project. She encouraged me to always strive for excellence in whatever task I chose to undertake. These values still guide me today. I also vote in memory of my mom, who had to be the breadwinner for her entire family during the Depression and was not given the opportunity for advanced education. She was probably the hardest working woman I ever knew and didn't have much time for reading. Somehow I feel that she wanted to compensate for her circumstances by always supporting her five children to achieve excellence in their studies, and encouraging us to read and instilling a lifelong love of reading in us all. |
|
From Declan (12), Damien (9), and Dash (6) Head:
Declan: When I was young, I loved to go to the Chesapeake Bay for one reason: to see my grandmother Jane, or as I like to say, Mema. She is always fun to be around and will always have some nice activity planned. I remember when I was in fourth grade in a new school; they had a grandparent's day. She was one of the best grandparents there. She did crafts with us and played foursquare with us. That was one of the highlights of the year for me. As you can see, she is a great grandparent and fun-maker! Damien: I am thankful for Mema because she helps us out with a lot of stuff. I am also grateful for Mema because she lets us do nice trips to the Bay (and teaches us about it). Another reason I am grateful for is because she comes to our school on Christmas. Dash: Mema is a good person and I am thankful for her because she always does nice projects with us. I loved when she taught me how to make jello. I like her because she is always cheering up hearts. |
Mema (Jane Head) with Damien, Dash, and Declan in 2017 (l-r)
Mema teaches Dash how to make jello
|
From Nadine James: |
Nellie Brooks Quander (1930=2019)
|
Louise Reeves Archer (1893-1948)
|
From Kathleen Kennedy:
I cast my vote in honor of my friend Virginia "Ginny" Fant, a great mentor, life coach, and friend. She encouraged me to pursue my master's degree at VA Tech in the early '80s, going as far as finding an after-school caregiver for my two sons. They were pupil placed at the school where I was teaching so I could get to class! I went on to work in Title I and helped to found The Reading Connection, (an Arlington nonprofit) which served kids in homeless shelters for a number of years! My experience with that is one reason I feel compelled to donate to RIF (of NOVA). Keep up the good work you do for our kids!
From Linda King:
I vote in memory of my mother. As an English teacher, she inspired my interest in language and writing letters.
From Anne Santorelli:
I vote in memory of my mother, Flora Trethowan, because she always stayed calm under any circumstance.
From Robert Ormsby:
I cast my vote in memory of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Gloria Johnson is seated in the first row in this 2007 photo with daughters, granddaughters, and a great-granddaughter -- four generations!
|
The tributes noted here are all for NOVA RIF board member Gloria Johnson, known in her family as Grandmommy, Grandma, and Mom!
From Blaise Miller: A lifelong educator in every sense of the word, my grandmother is a woman of intellect, style, and grace that inspires by example. Gloria Johnson raised three strong independent women who, in turn, raised ten grandchildren who know the importance of equality, education, and which fork to use. That tradition continues with her three great grandchildren and future great grandchildren...no pressure cousins! From Teresa Miller Thompson: A few words that come to mind when I think of my grandma are elegant, intelligent, and energetic. I would not have gotten through AP Latin or college level Italian without her. During my study aboard, my host “mom” was in disbelief after speaking to my grandma. She could not understand how I could be related to someone who spoke so effortlessly in Italian. She had a career that she loved and enjoyed making her own money. She often used her money to spoil me with a shirt or sweater I wanted. Gloria Johnson is a great grandma. She thought everything I did was wonderful. She always told me that I was smart and beautiful. She is a fabulous cook, and it is a great joy of mine to use her recipes with my own family. From Claire Vaiden: Grandma’s constant advocacy for education made a huge impact on my life. Having a grandmother with a graduate degree was such a valuable role model and empowered me to never question my own boundaries academically. Earning my doctorate degree was a huge accomplishment that would have been impossible without the support of my family. I share Grandma’s love of reading and think about her every time I start a new book! |
From Brian Head:
Grandmommy is one of the strongest women I know. She’s experienced so much in her life and has done so with resilience and grace. Growing up in a hypermasculine Italian community, she developed into an empowered, intelligent woman who attended both college and graduate school. She passed these feminist ideals on to her three daughters, the youngest of whom passed them on to me. I can honestly say I wouldn’t be the man I am today, one who challenges his privilege and seeks to empower the women in his life, without the experiences and strength of my grandmother. From Justina (JJ) Johnson: I'd like to vote for Gloria Johnson, my mother, respected reading teacher, and long-time RIF of NOVA board member. My mom instilled in me the love of reading from a young age, and I have passed this love on to my children. She was a reading teacher for many years, teaching her students the importance of books. She has served her community as a RIF of NOVA board member for over 30 years, working towards putting books in the hands of children. She has inspired me to continue RIF of NOVA's important work of giving children books and instilling in them a passion for reading. One book can make all the difference. From Abigail Head: There are so many ways I admire Grandmommy! Not only has she been such an amazing grandmother and warm presence for our family (dinners at her house, spending Christmases together, walking her dog Aggie), but I look up to her poise and work ethic. She has put in so much work to Reading Is Fundamental of Northern Virginia, and I think it’s so fantastic!! I love that she’s spread the love of reading to my mom and then to me and my siblings as well. RIF is special to our whole family! |
