My son first encouraged me to join ninety-nine girlfriends, because his best friend’s mother was a founding member. At the time, I loved the idea of a women’s philanthropy group, but I was also overwhelmed with work, the birth of my first grandson, and other family and volunteer activities. When I retired, my friend and colleague Kathy Masarie invited me to attend an educational workshop with the Girlfriends. This workshop was scheduled on the exact same day as the COVID epidemic was called, and it was a memorable day of learning while we all faced a new and unknown adversary. I was immediately hooked on the experience of women working in service to create community. I have been a member ever since.

I love that there are so many opportunities to be involved that vary in responsibility, time investment, interest, and skills. I have enjoyed being on the member education committee, working on ideas for moving beyond a traditional land acknowledgment, attending educational offerings, and learning from other Girlfriends a deeper appreciation for and practice of philanthropy, racial equity, and social justice. I am delighted to work with such a large group of inspirational women dedicated to creating the world we want to live in.

I have spent my life as a wife, mother, pediatrician, world traveler, riverhouse community member, nature lover, sea kayaker, author, and seeker. I am also grandma to three rambunctious and adorable boys (ages three, five, and eight), who keep me entertained (and humble) two days a week. I also enjoy far too many book groups!

I am deeply grateful for the people and support systems that helped me, an orphanage survivor, a foreign exchange student, and an emancipated minor, to achieve my dreams. I would love for all kids from humble beginnings—like mine–to have homes, food, healthcare, education, security, and mentorship to live their best lives and to know they matter. Working with women to make this happen, for me, is joyful work.