FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about CAPITAL WOMEN’S NETWORK
1. When and why was Capital Women’s Network established?
CWN was established in Tallahassee in 1978 as part of a conscious and concerted effort to help women advance in business, the professions and government. It was an era when women were just beginning to diverge from their traditional roles in the American workforce and move into management, law, accounting, medicine and even politics.
CWN, working at that time in concert with similar women’s networking groups across Florida and the nation, was determined to become a recognized force in helping women gain key leadership roles in their communities. Founding members, including Elizabeth Mann, Martha Barnett, Marilyn Larsen and Helen Webb, even obtained lists of governmental boards and commissions in order to identify and lobby for slots in which women could fill the appointed positions.
2. What women have embraced CWN’s mission and objectives?
Since its founding, CWN has had its share of notable members who have
distinguished themselves in their professions, their communities and through the Network. Over the years, these women have included:
• Rosemary Barkett, a federal judge and former justice of the Florida Supreme Court.
• Betty Castor, former Florida Education Commissioner, university president and state legislator.
• Martha Barnett, former president of the American Bar Association.
• Barbara Palmer, the first Women’s Athletic Director at Florida State University who successfully fought for equal treatment and benefits for female athletes under Title IX.
• Marjorie Turnbull, the first female state legislator in Leon County.
• Dr. Freddie Groomes, a nationally recognized author, speaker and educator.
• Anita Davis, the first African-American female county commissioner in Leon County.
• Janet Ferris, a Leon circuit judge and former head of the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation.
* Allison Tant, former lobbyist, former Democratic Party of Florida chair, child advocate, FL House of Representatives District 9, founder of Keys to Exceptional Youth Success (a scholarship program for students with disabilities), founder of Independence Landing (a safe, affordable residential community with a range of amenities for adults with intellectual and/or cognitive disabilities).
* Dr Fanchon “Fancy” Funk, retired professor emerita from Florida State University’s education department, a committed member since 2012 of the Rotary Club of Tallahassee, a member and past chair of the board of directors of the Southern Scholarship Foundation.
3. Who is eligible to join CWN?
Any woman who is outstanding in her field – as a professional or community volunteer – or committed to the mission and objectives of CWN is eligible for membership. Current members in good standing may nominate an eligible candidate for membership. Click here to read the CWN Membership Process criteria. When you are ready click here to fill out the CWN New Member Application Form.
After completion the form will be sent to the Membership Committee for review and consideration. Sponsors will be informed of the decision. Approved Nominee will be contacted by the President of CWN and invited to join, pending dues and application fees submission.
4. What does it cost to join CWN?
Membership dues are $250 a year and include 5 monthly luncheons at the FSU Alumni Center with complimentary parking, as well as two socials in the fall and spring. A one time Initiation Fee of $50.00 is part of the completed application process.
MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES:
* CWN Monthly Luncheons
* CWN e-Communications
* CWN Newsletter
* CWN Networking and Consultation
5. Does CWN provide any financial support for women?
CWN offers scholarships for women returning to their education, who can benefit from financial assistance in reaching their educational goals, at these local universities;
Tallahassee Community College, Florida State University, and Florida A & M University