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P. O. Box 16633

Tucson, AZ 85732

http://www.blackwomenstaskforce.org/

Chairpersons:

Edria Johnson — edriaj6@cox.net

Dinah McGlory — dmcglory@aol.com

Phone: 520-296-5370

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Message from the Chair,

The Black Women’s Task Force is a grassroots organization that has carried on: through a time of social injus-

tice for women; through spiraling healthcare cost which predominantly affects single women/head of house-

holds; through the gradual cracking of the corporate glass ceiling; through pessimism about a women’s ability

to run a major conglomerate and last but not least through a campaign for the highest office in the land that left

us hopeful and excited about the limitless possibilities.

The Black Women’s Task Force conferences and community involvement contribute to positive change within

the community. We continue our focus on the importance of fiscal responsibility with a renewed “yes we can

attitude” despite the economic environment. It is the goal of the Black Women’s Task Force Conference to

provide three things; 1.The highest quality of workshops. 2. Workshops that address women’s issues. 3.

Speakers who are experts in their field who will provide you with sustainable information to enhance your life.

If nothing else, you will network and mingle with women that are here for the same reason you are---- that is

to “effect change.”

Thank you, for your past and future support.

Sincerely,

Edria Johnson

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The Black Women's Task Force Committee was started in 1975 through the Tucson Women's Commission. The task force grew out of a small group meeting held at the Tucson Women's Commission. The group adopted the name, "Black Women's Awareness Task Force in 1978." Their goals were to develop awareness of the status of Black women living in Tucson, to promote equal opportunity and career development, and to encourage commu-nity support for their efforts to accomplish their goals. We agreed on a logo that was used on all Task Force mail-ings and publications for a decade before it was modernized to the current version.

Founding members included Carletta Banks, Dr. Margaret Jones, Dr. Carolyn Jackson, Blance Johnson, and Dr. Laura Banks, Dr. Anna Jolivet, Amanda Phillips, Isidora Wright, Camilla Walker, M.C. Williams, Dorothy Wiley, Doris Williams Conley, Eugenie Wells, Annie Sykes, Gloria Smith, Smithie Barrow, Dorothy Patterson, Nancy Ginger, and Allison Hughes.

By 1979 the group organized the extremely successful "Black Women’s Awareness Days" which drew over 100 Black women into substantive discussions about the status of black women in Tucson. Over 50 participants com-pleted evaluation forms that noted the need for more such events. The Task Force met frequently at the Women's Commission office, and eventually what was a core group of committed women grew into a large group of women devoted to promoting opportunities for sisters everywhere. The Task Force participated in the Tucson rally to sup-port passage of the Equal Rights Amendment. By 1981, the Task Force's mailing list had grown to over 180 members. Eventually, the word "awareness" was dropped from the task force name, and the current name was adopted: "Black Women's Task Force (BWTF)."

That the Black Women's Task Force has successfully survived into the 21st century is a tribute to the long-term commitment of our members, friends and supporters. BWTF has continued its legacy as a force in the community through scholarships to young people, computer donations to underserved families, volunteer endeavors, and participating in many charitable functions. African American women, as well as women of all cultures in Tucson, have made notable gains in their economic and social conditions, and we are overjoyed by their achievements. We are very proud that the BWTF’s grassroots involvement as an organization and individual member community participation has helped to stimulate that growth.

African American women continue to earn less than their non-black counterparts. Insufficient numbers are visible in top corporate executive positions, in academia, in federal, state and local government. In addition, we face unique health challenges. There is a need, which we recognize through our conferences, for more attention to be paid to health conditions experienced by women of color. In order for us to continue to make informative contributions to the community we must continue to grow and expand. We welcome new members. Become a collaborator in a women’s group with over 25 years of community involvement. Join the Black Women's Task Force of Tucson

History of Our Black Women's Task Force

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Dinah McGlory-Treasurer

Donna Liggins-Vice-President

Annie Sykes-President

Officers

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Mind, Body & Spirit

Registration: 7:00 a.m. - 7:50 a.m. Registration Table

Opening: 7:50 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Edria Johnson, Conference Chair

Good Morning: 8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. David Fitzsimmons, Arizona Daily Star

Morning Speaker: 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Daisy Jenkins, Vice-President, Human Resources, Raytheon Missile Systems

Session I 9:15 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

01 Be Your Own Best Health Advocate-Colette Marie Sims

02 Career Panel:

Resume Writing: Resume writing that gets results-Joanne Barlow

Dress for Success: A competitive edge & a positive first impression-Ann Fortune Gamble

Interviewing Skills: How to have a positive interview-Delores Townsend

03 How to Survive in Today’s Economy- Dianetta Thomas & Lorri Tuomey & Mary Lucas

Session II 10:15 a.m. -11:00 a.m.

04 Power to Prevent: Coalition for African American Health & Wellness - Mary Stoute

05 Career Transition Strategies: Reinventing yourself for the changing times & changing economy--Leslie Porter

Health Information: 11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Information on health resources for women

Vendor Browsing: All day until end of the conference

Lunch/Keynote Speaker: 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Unsung Awards

Ruth W. Brinkley, President & CEO Carondelet Health Network

End of the Day Session: 1:15p.m.-2:15 p.m. How to De- Stress

06 Relaxation & Functional Fitness Techniques: 1:15 p.m.-1:45p.m.

Marty Rotter, Recreation Director City of Tucson Northwest Center

07 Mindfulness Meditation: 1:45p.m.-2:00p.m.

Schedule of Events

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Morning Speaker

Daisy M. Jenkins

Vice President

Human Resources

Raytheon Missile Systems

Daisy M. Jenkins is vice president of Human Resources (HR) at Raytheon Missile Systems. She is responsible for developing and executing HR strategies and initiatives that contribute to achieving RMS business goals.

Jenkins previously held the positions of vice president of HR at Raytheon Aircraft Company located in Wichita, Kan., and vice president of HR for Raytheon Commercial Electronics, with businesses in the U.S., Europe and Canada. She was also Raytheon Company’s first director of Global Diversity at company headquarters and director of Human Resources for the Naval and Maritime Division of Defense Systems, headquartered in Portsmouth, R.I.

Jenkins served in numerous Human Resources leadership positions within Hughes Aircraft Company for more than 16 years prior to joining Raytheon Company. She has significant experience in managing de-centralized, multifunctional human resources organizations, as well as organization development consulting.

Daisy was awarded the College of Law, "Distinguished Alumnus Award" in 2001. In 2002 she received the Eagle Award" from the National Eagle Leadership Institute (NELI) for her consistent commitment to corporate diversity and citizenship, and was recognized in 2004 as one of the "Women Who Mean Business" in Wichita, Kansas. 2007 brought three major recognition awards for Daisy. She was named "Tucson Woman of the Year" for "living in a manner which inspires affection, respect and admiration" , won the Black Engineer of the Year

Award (BEYA) Affirmative Action Award In Excellence and Human Resources, and received the Phenomenal Woman of the Year Award for 2007 from the University of Arizona Black Alumni Association.

She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Tucson Regional Economics Opportunity, Inc. (TREO), the Arizona Economic Resources Organization (AREO), and the Board of Visitors for the University of Arizona College of Law. She also serves as the Raytheon Company Executive for Tuskegee University.

Jenkins holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master Degree in Communications from the University of Hawaii, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Arizona, College of Law. She is a member of the State Bar of Arizona.

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Afternoon Speaker

Ruth W. Brinkley, RN, FACHE

President and Chief Executive Officer

Carondelet Health Network,

Ascension Health West Ministry Market Leader

Ruth W. Brinkley is President and Chief Executive Officer of Carondelet Health Network in Tucson, Ariz., and West Ministry Market Leader for Ascension Health. She provides strategic and operational leadership for Carondelet while promoting alignment among Health Ministries within the Western Region and the System Office on issues related to Mission and Vision. Ms. Brinkley shares accountability for strategic positioning and operational performance for St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Lewiston, Idaho; Carondelet Health System, Kansas City, Mo., and Lourdes Health Network, Pasco, Wash.

Ms. Brinkley has extensive healthcare leadership experience in strategic and service line planning and implementation, financial and operations improvement, patient care delivery, and physician alignment and integration. She has held leadership positions in local, regional and national healthcare systems; academic and teaching healthcare institutions; and, healthcare management consulting. Prior to joining Carondelet and Ascension Health in 2007, she served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Health Care System, a Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) ministry in Chattanooga, Tenn., where she led the health system's transformation to regional referral center status, along with consistent recognition as a Top 100 Hospital, Top 100 Heart Hospital, Consumer Choice Award Winner, and one of the state of Tennessee's best employers. She also has established and led national, financial and operations turn around efforts, and large, complex healthcare consulting engagements.

Ms. Brinkley has been actively involved in the leadership of organizations that advance development of community, state and national objectives, such as the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Rotary Club, corporate and private boards. She is also actively involved in local, state and national healthcare organizations such as the American Hospital Association, American College of Health Care Executives, and National Association of Health Care Executives.

Ms. Brinkley is a registered nurse, and holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in nursing from De Paul University, Chicago. She serves on the Board of Chattem, Inc., is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, a founding member of the Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation, and is a frequent speaker on healthcare and broader leadership issues.

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Be Your Own Best Health Advocate

Dr. Colette Marie Sims

Dr. Colette Marie Sims, is a medical anthropologist, who currently holds a research faculty appointment in Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine at the University of Arizona. The primary goals of her research and teaching have been to offer hard evidence that advances culturally appropriate, culturally competent and culturally responsive knowledge about the culture, and the health and well-being of racial/ethnic minority women.

Presently, Dr. Sims research on health disparities advocates a patient-centered approach in identifying what types of CAM therapies/health prac-tices are being used among women of color and the reasons why these therapies/health practices were

chosen and how well they work. Comple-mentary and alternative medicine (CAM) is defined as a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Many women of color may be using CAM therapies and practices which may come from a variety of sources including cultural beliefs and practices, as well as, Homeopathic Medicine, Naturopathic Medicine, Traditional Chi-nese Medicine , Acupuncture , Healing Touch / Laying on of hands, Spirituality, Herbal Medicine, Meditation, Yoga and so on.

As a social justice advocate her research is creating opportunities for collaboration through respectful partnerships and communication with local communities to become involved as partners in research initiatives.

Resume Writing: Resume Writing That Gets Results

Joanne Barlow

Remember that old saying “throw your hat in the door?” A well written resume is your hat. A potential candidate for employment must make the prospective employer want to meet and interview him/her. A professionally done resume should stand out,

generate notice and give you first preference as a potential prospect.

Dress for Success: A Competitive Eedge & a Positive First Impression

Ann Fortune Gamble

Make an immediate impression from the interview to the office. Learn how to mix and match to enhance your wardrobe also to create your own sense of style.

Interviewing Skills: How to Have a Positive Interview

Delores Townsend

Worried about your job? Is your career in transition? Get tips on how to ace the interview.

Presenters

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How to Survive in Today’s Economy

Dianetta Thomas & Lorri Tuomey

Educate, Inspire & Empower. The discussion will be centered on providing information pertaining to the cyclical nature of the Real Estate Market and Economy. We will provide tools to enhance the individual's understanding of home buying, selling, REO's, short sales, foreclosures, auctions in today's ever-changing market. Information will be provided explaining the importance of understanding and interpreting one's credit report, finances and an overview of the loan programs available to facilitate home purchasing, refinances for possible debt consolidation, and reduction of payment and modification of an existing loan.

Dianetta Thomas , Realtor®, GRI, SRS

Is a Sales Executive with Realty Executives Southern Arizona specializing in the real estate needs of both buyers and sellers. Her personal mission statement stresses doing business with integrity and offering personalized customer service to each client. As she would explain it, “she helps people realize their dreams as they pertain to real estate.” Dianetta is committed to her clients and her ultimate goal is to make the experi-ence enjoyable, as well as successful!

She moved to Tucson in 1994 and loves spending time with her family, friends and giving back to her community. Dianetta is an active member of Rising Star

Missionary Baptist Church where she and her husband facilitate Rising Star’s Marriage Ministry. She is also a member of the Tucson Southern Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce.

Dianetta has worked in the real estate industry since 2001. She has been honored with numerous awards including Realty Executives Relocation and Gold Circle Awards. In 2005, she received the 100% Club and from 2005-2008, she has received the Gold Circle Awards. Dianetta’s motto is ... “I represent people, not properties!”

Lorri Tuomey

Senior Loan Officer for 12-Years. She is a graduate of the University of Idaho with a B.S in Economics and Finance; former Branch Manager of Arizona Bank, and former Public Relations Ambassador Chair for the Tucson Black Chamber of Commerce. Lorri credits her success to a continued drive to provide superior customer service. She emphasizes empowerment with knowledge, especially amongst women. Lorri is a proud wife and mother of a 12-year old daughter. She continues to employ integrity and an unwavering commitment of excellence.

How to Survive in Today’s Economy-Smart & Easy Money Tips for today’s Economy

Smart money tips to help in today’s economic downturn.

Mary Lucas

Mary, AAOS, is a practical, down to earth financial literacy instructor. She provides easy to understand instruction as it relates to day to day money issues such as, budgeting and saving. Mary received her training in 2002 while working under a grant at a local social service agency. Once the grant ended Mary decided the information was so useful and needful that she began voluntarily providing financial literacy classes in the community. She continues to lend her knowledge of fundamental money matters to anyone who requests her services in both the secular and faith communities.

Presenters

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Power to Prevent

Mary Stoute

Power to Prevent is a program designed to encourage overweight people at increased risk for diabetes to lose weight and prevent or delay the disease. Participants will be given a brief introduction on how the program works and the importance of keeping track of everything they eat or drink. Information will be given on how the program benefited participants who completed the curriculum. “Small steps” can lead to

“big re-wards”.

Mary F. Williams-Stoute

She uses her skills in the following community activities: Chair for the Coalition for African American Health and Wellness; Board member of the Dunbar Coalition & COPE. Mary retired from DES Family Assistance Administration in 2000 after 28 years of service. She is the proud grandmother of two.

“God has created us for a life of good deeds which he has already prepared for us to do.” [Ephesians 2:10]

Career Transition Strategies: Reinventing Yourself for the Changing Times and Changing Economy

Leslie Porter

Career changes are becoming increasingly common due to the uncertainties of the economic environment, technological changes, and new attitudes toward work.

Woman, in particular, experience cyclical periods of career instability and transition throughout life and woman of color face additional obstacles brought on by open or hidden bias’s at work, the cultural shock” of living in Arizona, being the sole woman of color in the workplace and trying to embrace their “uniqueness” while maintaining the “right” image.

Given these and other challenges, it is easy to become discouraged with job search efforts and fearful of making career changes. But now is not the time to focus on the negative. Successful working women understand that unprecedented changes can also offer unprecedented opportunities.

Whether you are facing a potential job loss, re-entering the workforce, looking for a career change or becoming more successful in your current career, this session will offer inspirational insights and practice guidance for gaining “career success” in the 21st century.

Course Objectives

To understand the difference between “networking” and “connecting”.

To explore strategies for finding and keeping a job during tough economic times

To learn how being a woman and woman of color can work to your advantage.

To gain awareness of career sabotaging behaviors and ways to avoid them

To identify and acquire skills for career success

Presenters

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Leslie D. Porter, SPHR has worked as a human resources professional at the University of Arizona for nineteen years. Along the way, she has modified her own career to meet the changing needs of the department. During her tenure with the University, she has worked in compensation and classification, recruitment and employment, employee relations and benefits administration. Currently she serves as Director of Recruitment and Employee and Career Advising, which includes assisting University employees with career transitions.

Leslie is Past President of the Society of Human Resources Management of Greater Tucson (2008) and serves on the Saguaro Girl Scouts Council, Pima

Community College’s Training and Workforce Committee and the United Way’s HR Advisory Board. Locally, she has delivered numerous HR and career-related presentations to several organizations and community groups and been a presenter at several state conferences.

Leslie played on the University of Arizona women’s basketball team while pursuing her B.S. in Personnel Management and has worked as a junior high and high school girls and boys basketball and volleyball official for 20 years.

Relaxation and Functional Fitness Techniques

Marty Rotter

Simple and easy movement techniques to help with everyday tasks and aids in handling stress. These techniques can be used in office as well as home.

Marty Rotter

Marty has been involved with health, fitness and wellness promotion for the past 22 years. She was on the founding board of the Southern Arizona Fitness Association, has taught group exercise, has done personal training and has worked in the rehabilitation field addressing exercise addiction. She is currently a Recreation Coordinator at the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation's Northwest Center where she

coordinates activities and programs for all age groups.

Mindfulness Meditation

Karen Chatfield

Karen Chatfield, M.A., is the Director of Public Relations, Customer Service, and Cultural Initiatives at La Frontera Center, Inc., a community-based behavioral health center in Tucson, Arizona. She has provided consultation to local and regional social service organizations, and has presented workshops at a variety of behavioral health and diversity conferences. She is also the co-founder of La Cholla Center for Integrative Spirituality, a nonprofit organization that conducts groups on meditation and spiritual growth and development.

The Black Women’s Task Force would like to express our sincere appreciation to:

Susan Eisen, Program Coordinator: HIV Counseling and Testing Pima County Health Department; Theresa Lee Clinic.

Julia Flannery, Program Manager: Strategic Health Planning, Pima County Health Department.

While not presenting, they have volunteered to staff tables with information regarding : Mammography exams, Well Women HealthCheck with testing and services available to women, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Women's Nutrition and HIV Counseling and

Testing. They will answer questions regarding the material.

Presenters

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Clarance Boykins

Clarance Boykins a native of Miami, Florida, and a resident of Tucson, Arizona for

over thirty years.

Mr. Boykins’ residence in the City of Tucson has been, personally rewarding.

Married to Deborah Boykins, they have five children and 12 grand children. His career has

experienced many accomplishments and opportunities.

First African American Merchandise Buyer Levy’s Department Store (Federate Stores Inc.)

First African American Buyer City of Tucson, where he later became Procurement Administrator

National Seminar Instructor –National Institute for Public Purchasing (Washington, DC).

Mr. Boykins taught class on Purchasing Management at Pima Community College.

Director of Minority and Women Business Development (City of Tucson)

Director Tucson Convention Center.

Clarence retired from the City of Tucson in 2005. In honor of his retirement and

community service, Congressman Raul Grijalva entered into the US Congressional Records a Tribute of Mr. Boykins work history

and community accomplishments.

In 1989, Mr. Boykins researched, wrote, and published the “Minority Resource Guide.” In 1989, Mr. Boykins was

awarded the “Jefferson Award for Outstanding Community Service; an award established by the Jefferson Institute in Washington

DC. In 1992, Mr. Boykins produced and hosted his own television show on the ABC network. The show, called “Point Blank”

aired on Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. Mr. Boykins took six months leave of absence from the City of Tucson to accept the

position as Campaign Coordinator for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. This Ballot measure, which was successfully

passed by vote of the citizens of the State of Arizona, has been written as one of the most successful ballot measures in recent

history.

Mr. Boykins is presently the President & CEO of the Tucson Southern Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce. In 2006,

the Chamber obtained it’s own building which was converted into a community resource facility, which is being used by two

churches, two businesses, hosted many receptions, Ubuntu Market, and training programs for Chamber members.

Mr. Boykins is listed as one of the most influential African American Men in Arizona.

Five times he received City of Tucson Outstanding Citizen Copper Letter Award from Mayor’s Lew Murphy, Tom Volgy, George

Miller, and Robert Walkup. Mr. Boykins presently serves on the board for several organizations

Sandy Davenport Sandy Davenport-was Executive Director of the Pima County Women’s Commission for over

four years. She enhanced the connection between that organization and the Black Women’s

Task Force. She also worked for over eight years for Carondelet St. Mary where she

coordinated the initiation of routine screening for domestic violence and spread this to other

hospitals and health care providers throughout the area. She has been a member of the Black

Women’s Task Force since 2004. Sandy is a Caregiver Specialist for Pima Council on Aging

and is a Licensed Master Social Worker. Sandy worked for 15 years in the Tucson area

providing counseling, medical social work services, training, and community collaboration,

with special emphasis on violence against women and advocacy for women.

Unsung Awards

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Art Eckstrom Art Eckstrom was born and raised in the South Tucson community of “Barrio Libre.” He attended Mission View Elementary, Wakefield Junior High and graduated from Pueblo High School. Shortly thereafter, he pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona. He served for six years in the 8/40th Armor Battalion of the U. S. Army Reserve and received an honorable discharge for his military service. Throughout his years as a student he together with his family was actively involved in numerous community service activities that assisted those most needy within their neighborhood.

In 1966, he went to work at Pima Mine where he began a lifelong career of service to others as a member of the United Steelworkers of America (USWA). As a union activist he held many local leadership positions including serving as a Union Steward and 12 years as President of USWA Local 6695. In 1977, he was the founder of Union Services for Unemployed Copper Workers (USUCW), a locally established initiative that served as a forerunner to the current One-Stop Career Center by providing comprehensive services to dislocated and unemployed copper miners. He was also a founding member of the local chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) and served as the State LCLAA Director for many years.

In 1983, Art was invited by the late Sam Lena, who then served as Chairman of the Pima County Board of Supervisors to assist in the organization and development of employment and training programs for Pima County. He effectively utilized his past experience and training to help formulate many innovative employment and training programs under the auspices of the U. S. Department of Labor’s Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) and the current Workforce Investment Act (WIA). One of his proudest endeavors has been the successful development of the Las Artes Youth Arts and Learning Center which has enabled countless dropout and troubled youth to receive a GED and to go on to further their education, as well as becoming productive members of the local workforce. Somehow this little known fact has never impacted or impaired his ability to serve those in our community with the greatest need. He currently maintains active membership in the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).

Unsung Awards

Dan Eckstrom Dan Eckstrom is a native and lifelong resident of South Tucson, Arizona. He graduated from Pueblo High School in 1965, and in May 1969, he was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from the University of Arizona. In 1971, at the age of 23, he was elected to the South Tucson City Council and had the special distinction of being one of the youngest elected officials in the state. He was re-elected in 1973, and selected as Mayor by his colleagues. He was re-elected in 1975, 1977, 1981 and 1985. In May 1988, he was unanimously appointed to the Pima County Board of Supervisors to fill the unexpired term of his political mentor Sam Lena. In November 1988, he was elected to his first term of office and was subsequently re-elected to additional four year terms in 1992, 1996 and 2000. In September 2003, he retired from elected office after more than 32 continuous years of public service. He served for 20 years on the Pima Association of Governments (PAG) Regional Council, including five terms as Chairman. As a member of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO), he had the distinction of having the longest tenure of service among local Hispanic elected officials. In 1996, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton as one of nine Americans to represent the United States on the Border Environment Cooperation Commission (BECC) Advisory Council.

Dan has been recognized on numerous occasions for his longstanding community service. In November 1988, the City of South Tucson honored him by naming its newly constructed city hall facility as the “Daniel W. Eckstrom Municipal Complex.” In 1991, he was awarded the University of Arizona Alumni Association “Distinguished Citizen Award.” In 1992, he was inducted into the Arizona Democratic Party Hall of Fame. In 1993, he was presented the prestigious Montemayor-Barraza Award which is the highest national honor given by the Labor Council of Latin American Advancement (LCLAA). In 1996, he was awarded the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National Presidential Citation and Community Service Award. The Pima County Board of Supervisors also honored him with the naming of the Dan Eckstrom-Columbus Branch Library. Most recently, he was honored by the NAACP, and also received the Dr. Martin Lither King, Jr., Drum Major Award.

Dan continues to spend much of his available time and resources in assisting various nonprofit, community based, faith-based, charitable and philanthropic organizations on a pro-bono basis. He continues to remain very active and has been very instrumental in promoting local faith-based and community initiatives with churches, neighborhood leaders and local governmental officials throughout the state.

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La’Tresa M. Jester La’Tresa was born in Tucson, Arizona July 8, 1964. She currently resides in Tucson

where her ministry began in 1995. In 1999 she was licensed to preach the Gospel and on July 2,

2005, was honored and celebrated with her ordination certificate. While in ministry La’Tresa has

served in the capacity of preacher, teacher, advisor, mentor, conference speaker and workshop

facilitator. She has proven to be a dedicated servant working with several ministries of the church

on a local, district, state and national level.

In 2005 La’Tresa entered into full time ministry, traveling across the United States

training faith based and non-profit organizations on the impor-tance of establishing “Disaster

Ministry Teams” A ministry that demonstrates Preparedness as a lifestyle, physically, emotionally

and spiritually. She is the visionary behind a local Christian book club “Privileged” and serves on the board of Women in the

Desert, Never the Same Ministries, and Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). In January 2008, La’Tresa was

installed as the first African American Female Baptist Pastor recognized in the state of Arizona through the National Baptist

Convention, USA, she is the Senior Pastor of Gideon Missionary Baptist Church. She also devotes time as a community member

on several non-profit organizations for community development. La’Tresa works through a personal mission statement of “Living

faithful, showing compassion and serving those in need”

La’Tresa has been granted the privilege of being a life partner to her husband, Bryan Jester. To this union God has

honored them with four beau-tiful daughters. After the high school graduation of their youngest daughter, La’Tresa returned to

college and earned her Bachelors in Psychology with honors.

C Mary Okoye C Mary Okoye graduated from the University of Arizona; College of Law and was

subsequently admitted to the state bar of Arizona. She also attended the Georgetown Law Center in

Washington, D.C., her third year of law school, while interning with the office of Senator Dennis

DeConcini. During her career as an attorney she has worked in private practice, served as a

Tucson City Court Magistrate, and was Pima County Public Fiduciary prior to accepting her current

position with the City of Tucson as Director of Intergovernmental Relations. As Director of

Intergovernmental Relations for the City of Tucson, C Mary Okoye is responsible for developing,

representing and ad-vocating the interests of the City of Tucson by fostering and maintaining the City’s relationships with other

governmental entities on the local, state, and federal levels.

A lifelong volunteer, she has served on numerous local and state boards. She has been Past President of Arizonans for

Cultural Devel-opment, Secretary of the Sahuaro Chapter of the Girl Scouts, and a long time volunteer for the Tucson YWCA.

She currently serves on the boards of Voices for Education, the Pima Library Foundation Board, and the Tucson Urban League.

Mary Okoye has received the YWCA Woman on the Move Award and was honored by Inside Tucson Business as one of the 40

under 40.

Unsung Awards

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Grady Scott The Reverend D. Grady Scott is a native of Port Deposit, Maryland. He moved to Tucson

in 1984. Reverend Scott was called to pastor the Grace Temple Baptist Church in August of 1990.

He currently serves as pastor. Under his leadership the congregation has grown numerically and

spiritually, acquired additional property and improved the current facilities. D. Grady Scott is the

Executive Secretary of the National Baptist Convention USA, Incorporated Prison Ministry and

Criminal Justice Commission. He is a member of the Tucson City Magis-trate Merit Selection

Commission. He served on the Advisory Board for Faith Based and Community Initiatives for

Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano. D. Grady Scott is the immediate past president of the Paradise

Missionary Baptist State Convention. He served as moderator of the Southern District Association,

president of the Interde-nominational Minister’s Alliance of Tucson and Vicinity, and President of

the Congress of Christian Education for the Southern District Association. Pastor Scott is the recipient of many community

service awards including the LULAC Presidential Citation, FBI Community Service award and the NAACP Community Service

Award. Pastor Scott is married to Theressa E. (Teel) Scott. They have three grown children, and one grandson.

Claudia Jasso-Stevens Jasso-Stevens was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, where her passion for

community and volunteerism began very early in life. Claudia’s extensive professional and

volunteer experience has demonstrated how much she truly understands the value of community

coming together for a common cause. Jasso-Stevens recently held the position of Community

Development Director for COPE Community Services, Inc. (COPE), where she directed

marketing, development, public relations, strategic partnerships, and events. Claudia also served as

the Chair of the Arizona Women’s Conference. Under the leadership of Jasso-Stevens, the

Conference reached new levels of success and attracted sold out crowds of 1,200 participants.

Prior to COPE, Claudia worked for Brinker International as a Corporate Trainer. The global nature

of the corpora-tion allowed Jasso-Stevens to travel extensively throughout the continental United

States, Egypt, England, and Hawaii. Her undergraduate work was done at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

Organizations Claudia has been affiliated with include Association of Fundraising Professionals, League of Mexican

American Women, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), South of 45 Club, Pima County Tucson Women’s

Commission, Tucson Advertis-ing Federation, and Tucson Hispanic Coalition. Aside from her professional commitments, much of

Claudia's time and energy is dedicated to volunteer work. She is a Board Member of Amistades, Inc. and is also a Planning

Committee Member the organization’s Annual Segundo de Febrero Dinner. Jasso-Stevens is a Member of the University of

Arizona Hispanic Women’s Plaza Tribute Committee and the University of Arizona Sarver Heart Center Women's Education

Committee. Additional volunteer activities include serving as a judge for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tucson Youth of the Year

competition and as a past Board Member of Planned Parenthood of Southern Arizona.

Claudia has been awarded the prestigious LULAC/FBI Outstanding Community Service Award. The Eastern District

Women’s De-partment honored her as a Community Service Awardee where she received certificates of recognition and

appreciation from Congressman Raul Grijalva, Pima County Chairman Richard Elias, and City of Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup.

Jasso-Stevens was awarded Special Recogni-tion from Governor Janet Napolitano for exceptional commitment to community.

Claudia was recently awarded the Tucson Business Edge 40 under 40 Award honoring outstanding young business and community

leaders and celebrating their potential for impacting Tucson’s future.

Unsung Awards

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Joanne Barlow

Is the Human Resources Manager for the Sahuaro Girl Scout Council. She has over 13 years of experience in the field of human resources as a specialist and a generalist. Joanne received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and is cur-rently pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree. Joanne is a local and national member of the Society of Human Resources Man-agement (SHRM). She is a member of the local Future Work Force Development Committee and a project manager of the Tucson based “Never the Same Ministries”. Joanne’s philosophy is to learn something new everyday.

Shirley Harris Butler Teen Coordinator: City of Phoenix Housing Dept. She is a member Of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Phoenix, Arizona with Bishop Alex Thomas. Her organizations include: Fathers& Families Coalition of America, Board Member; Present Mentoring African Americans for Leadership, Vice – President- Present; and Phoenix Black Women's Task Force: Past Chairperson. She is the mother of six: grandmother of seven.

Sandy Davenport

Sandy is a Caregiver Specialist for Pima Council on Aging and is a Licensed Master Social Worker. Sandy worked for 15 years in the Tucson area providing counseling, medical social work services, training, and community collaboration, with special emphasis on violence against women and advocacy for women.

Ann Fortune Gamble

A native of St. Louis, Mo, moved to Tucson and became active in the community immediately. She is an actor, singer, writer, poet extraordi-naire, community activist, has taken on the challenge as care giver of her mother and now fighting for her life as a dialysis patient. Mrs. Gamble has been a member of the Black Women's Task Force for 21 years and is the past Board member of the YWCA of Tucson, The Envelope Please, CODAC Behavioral Health and Borderlands Theater. She is also a past BWTF Unsung Shero, former Girl Scout leader and troop organizer, and was honored in Phoenix, AZ, at a fundraiser to build an orphanage for orphans in South Africa whose parents have died from AIDS. She has served on the Tucson MLK Celebration Committee and the Tucson Branch of the NAACP. She is a member of Prince Chapel AME Church and is the Asst. Chapter Rep. of the Tucson Chapter of the GMWA, Inc. and served as Food Drive Coordinator for Carondelet Health Network. She is married to David L. Gamble.

Gina Hall

Gina is a native of Pensacola, Fla. Gina and her husband of 21 years moved to Tucson, AZ in 2003 after he retired from the Air Force. They are owners of Dapper Image Menswear established in 2004. Gina's heart for women led her to establish Beauty for Ashes Ministries. This is a ministry of healing and refreshment for women. The Ministry reaches out to women through quarterly retreats in the Tucson area. She is the board of member of Single Parent Not Alone (SPANA).

Shirley Hockett

Shirley was born and raised in Tucson, AZ. She retired from Raytheon Missile Systems Co., in December 1999 and has since traveled exten-sively to South Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean and Mexico. She currently operates a home-based Cruise and Tour Company entitled Travel Tips. She is the Chair of Operations for The Dunbar Project and the secretary for The Chocolate Dolls Civic and Social Club. Shirley is a graduate of St. Mary’s College with a BS degree in Public Management. Her motto “Dream it and you can Achieve it.”

Black Women’s Task Force Members

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Allison Hughes

Is a founding member of the Black Women’s Task Force. She is Director Emeritus of the Rural Health Office in The University of Arizona; Mel and Enid Zuckerman Arizona College of Public Health, where she continues to serve on the faculty, and administers quality improvement hospitals for small rural hospitals in the state. She has been involved in implementing telemedicine technology throughout the state since the inception of the Arizona Telemedicine Program, also located at the university. She currently serves on numerous national boards and commis-sions devoted to improving health care. In 2003 she co-chaired the Arizona Women’s Conference. She was the first Executive Director of the Tucson Women’s Commission in the 70's while at the same time serving on Governor Bruce Babbitt’s Commission on Women. She is a member of the Arizona Commission on the Arts appointed for a second term by Governor Janet Napolitano.

Edria Johnson

Retired after 25 years with American Airlines. Owned and operated All About You Adult Care, LLC, an assisted living business, for the next five years. She is currently employed at CitiMortgage. Edria is a graduate of University of Phoenix with a B.S. in Marketing and a MBA in Global Management. She is married to Paul Johnson and together they have 5 children and 4 grandchildren.

Betty Liggins

Semi-Retired: UA Collage of Medicine (FCM) Title: RNP/Clinical Lecturer. Betty is still very busy, hoping to continue to make a positive difference in my community, and the State of Arizona. Last 5 years or so she has been the: NAACP Region 1 Chair Southern Arizona Medical Reserve Corp,1st Responder Nurses Task Force, Arizona Democrat Party Hall of Fame Award, Vice-President Tucson Branch African-American Caucus. Honoree: YWCA Lifetime Achievement Award . Ms. Rosa Parks' Living History Makers Health Award.

Donna Liggins

Donna Liggins is the Northwest Center Supervisor. Ms Liggins has been a member of the BWTF for 25 + years. She is the current President of the Tucson NAACP and a long standing member of Mt Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. She is a ministry leader of the Trustee & Social Justice Ministry. Donna is a loving wife, mother, grand mother and great grandmother.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthened me." Philippians 4:13

Eddie Maxey

Is a native of Stamps, Arkansas and long-time resident of Tucson and a retired Registered Nurse. She is a graduate of Regina School of Nursing, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the University of Phoenix. Eddie was employed for 25 years by the Nursing Department: Pima Community Col-lege. Past member of Jack & Jill, and the Eureka Club. Member of Grace Temple Baptist Church serves as usher. She is a mother of 4, grand-mother of 5.

Dinah McGlory (Treasurer)

“All that I am, all that I have accomplished, and all that I will become is by the Grace of God.”

Black Women’s Task Force Members

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Alice Perry

Is a native Dallas/Fort Worth Texan. She spent most of her adult life in San Francisco Bay Area. She is a retired Postmaster (U.S. Postal Service) Active member NAACP (Tucson chapter) active member National Council Negro Women and serves her church Greater Bethel AME Usher Board, Phoenix Arizona. She is also the owner of Pinal County Retiree's Funseekers and Foundation for Arizona's Youth @ Cababi House.

Colette Marie Sims, Ph.D.

As a member of the Black Women’s Task Force (BWTF) and board member of the Coalition of African American Health and Wellness (CAAHW), Dr. Sims has throughout a career of teaching, curriculum development and research remained committed to the improvement of health and well-being and reducing and, ultimately, eliminating health disparities among racial/ethnic minority women and medically underserved populations in Arizona.

Annie Marie Sykes

Is a Project Coordinator for the City of Tucson Community Services Department in Housing Management. She received the Distinguished Community Service award from the Eastern District Women's Department of the Church of God in Christ. She is a volunteer with the University of Arizona Alumni VIP Docent program, Mt. Calvary Social Justice Ministry, and Commission on the Status of Women. She is currently serving as President of The Black Women's Task Force. Recently she has received the: Walk of Honor University of Arizona, Rosa Parks Award 2009 and Progressive Women’s Club Award

Yevette Sykes,

A native of Kansas City, KS, she is a graduate of Langston University with a Bachelors of Science degree in corrections. Ms. Sykes is currently employed with Mulcahy/City/YMCA as a program director. In addition, she is employed with the City of Tucson at the Northwest Center Recreation and she is an active member of the Juneteenth Committee.

Dolores Townsend

A native Tucsonan, she is the oldest child of Chester and Lucille Willis. She attended Dunbar Elementary School and graduated from Tucson High School. Dolores attended the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University where she received her B.S., M.A., and Administrative Certification, in Education. She worked for Flagstaff Public Schools for almost 30 years. In that time she served as an elementary and middle school teacher, Building Coordinator and Assistant Principal of Coconino High School, and Principal of Lara Kinsey Elementary School. She has also taught graduate classes for Northern Arizona University. Dolores received numerous awards and honors including, Soroptimist International of the Americas-Women of Distinction in Education and The NAU, The Color of Success, Black Honor Society-Lifetime Honor of Achievement. Retiring in 1999, she moved home, to Tucson.

Dolores is the proud mother of three and grandmother to four. She has come out of retirement, for one year only, to teach freshman English at a local charter school. She then plans to continue with the things she loves; travel, music, interior design, and gardening.

Black Women’s Task Force Members

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Citizen of the Year Award presented at the National Association of Social Workers 2009.

Donna Liggins, March, 2009

“Ms. Rosas Parks Living History Makers Awards.”

Annie Sykes; Community Activist, February 2009

V-Day Vagina Warrior Award 2008

Sandy Davenport: for work against violence toward women and girls

Black Women’s Task Force “Bragging Rights”

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“Member and Friend”

“The New Testament informs the reader that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I have found that among its benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver. The size

and substance of the gift should be important to the recipient, but not to the donor

save that the best thing one can give is that which is appreciated. The giver is as

enriched as is the recipient, and more important, that intangible but very real psychic

force of good in the world is increased.”

“Maya Angelou”

Natica Jarvis befriended everyone she met. Her spirit, quiet dignity, and love for her

sisters will always be remembered by all of the people that have been touched by her

presence. She gave of her time, her wisdom and her sense of humor. Our personal lives

as well as The Black Women’s task Force collectively were strengthened by knowing

her. Her time with us was a valuable gift and we will cherish it always.

Memoriam to Natica V. Jarvis

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Tucson Unified School District

African American Studies

Department

Congratulations! The Black Women’s Task Force

Serving the community well for over thirty years

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CONGRATULATIONS

To My Wife

MRS. DONNA R. LIGGINS

And

TUCSON, AZ

BLACK WOMENS TASKS FORCE

On your Annual Conference 2009

As a member

“Ladies, Know I Got Your Back!”

Number one FAN!!

Carl Liggins

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Congratulations and Best Wishes

Black Women’s Task Force of Tucson

Tucson Chapter of The Links, Incorporated

Promenade of Roses “Links Cotillion” January 2, 2010

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N!!!  

Tucson Black Women’s Tasks force Celebrating your Annual Conference

Save the date …. Saturday October 3rd, 2009

NAACP “Celebrating 90 Years”

Annual Freedom Gala

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Membership Application

Mission Statement:

To identify and respond to the needs and interest

of aspiring African-American women who desire

to enhance their positive representation

(Annual Membership Dues-$50.00)

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Last Name First Name

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Address

___________________________________________ ____________________________________________

Home Phone Work Number

__________________________________________

Email address

Black Women’s Task Force

P.O. Box 16633

Tucson, AZ 85732

Meeting: Monthly-Second Tuesday

Northwest Center

2160 N. 6th Ave

Tucson, AZ 85710

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