Spring/Summer 2024 Edition - Quarterly Newsletter of The Miami Woman’s Club
A SEASON OF TRANSITION, TRADITION, AND TOGETHERNESS
As the first half of 2024 unfolds, The Miami Woman’s Club continues to uphold its longstanding mission of service, leadership, and sisterhood through meaningful programming, collaborative outreach, and deep reflection. With a new board installed, a powerful leadership retreat behind us, and a heartwarming tribute to our nation’s veterans, this season has been one of legacy and light.
May 13, 2024
“Be the Torch”: A New Board Installation and A Bold New Beginning
In a moving and ceremonial tradition, The Miami Woman’s Club officially installed its 2024–2026 Board of Directors on May 13 at our historic Clubhouse. The ceremony was led by Past GFWC Florida State President Diane Forester, whose words of encouragement and deep connection to the federation’s mission helped set a powerful tone for the next chapter of leadership.
Introducing Our 2024–2026 Leadership Team
The Miami Woman’s Club
We are proud to present the dedicated officers and directors leading The Miami Woman’s Club for the 2024–2026 term. With a shared commitment to service, stewardship, and sisterhood, this leadership team is guiding the club into its next great chapter.
GFWC District 11 Immediate Past President Shirley Pardon, Past District Director Virginia Yermoli, TMWC President Metris Batts, Past GFWC Florida 2022-2024 President Diane Foerster, GFWC Florida District 11 District Director Ruth Martinez and The Historic Overtown Woman’s Club Lavette Moore President
Executive Officers
President – Metris Batts-Coley
Vice President – Clora Adkins
Second Vice President – Dr. Rose Martin
Treasurer – Daryle Feistmen
Secretary – Sharon Thompson
Board of Directors
Director of House – Noreen Timoney
Director of Finance – Lynn Montero Scotto
Director of Library – Shamelle Jenkins
Immediate Past President – Shirley Pardon
Together, this dynamic team carries the torch of our mission forward with vision, integrity, and heart.
During her installation speech, incoming President Metris Batts-Coley introduced her administration’s theme: “Be the Torch.” A call to action, the theme reminds us that each of us carries the responsibility to illuminate the path for others, share our wisdom, and serve as a guiding light in the community. “Being the torch means not just carrying light, but passing it,” said President Batts-Coley. “It means leading with integrity, empowering those around us, and preserving the legacy of the women who came before us.”
The installation ceremony included recognition of outgoing officers, acknowledgement of past presidents in attendance, and the recitation of officer pledges. The ceremony closed with a toast to the future—a future rooted in collaboration, compassion, and courage.
June 1, 2024
Saluting Our Veterans: Honor Flight Homecoming at MIA
In a display of patriotism and community solidarity, members of The Miami Woman’s Club joined forces with The El Portal Woman’s Club on June 1 to support the return of veterans participating in Honor Flight South Florida.
Gathering at Miami International Airport, members waved homemade signs, American flags, and shared cheers as the veterans arrived home from their once-in-a-lifetime trip to Washington, D.C., where they visited memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice.
“It was such a powerful experience to be part of this welcome,” said one member. “Many of the veterans had tears in their eyes, and the joy was truly contagious.” The Club’s participation reflected one of our core pillars of civic engagement—recognizing and uplifting those who have served our country.
The event also deepened bonds between The Miami Woman’s Club and El Portal Woman’s Club members, showing that when clubs collaborate, our collective impact expands.
June 7–9, 2024
Leadership, Wellness, and Vision: Highlights from the 2024 Board Retreat
Held over three transformational days at the Clubhouse and sites across Miami, the 2024 Board Retreat was a blend of strategic planning, personal development, and community connection.
The retreat began Friday morning with a warm welcome and materials distribution. Following a lighthearted icebreaker, Past District Director Virginia Yermolia opened the occasion with a charge to lead with vision and values. President Metris Batts-Coley then addressed the group with remarks centered around unity, legacy, and intention for the year ahead.
After reviewing the strategic plan, board roles and responsibilities, and calendar initiatives over a working lunch, the group traveled to the Miami-Dade Public Library via public transportation for a behind-the-scenes tour. The afternoon concluded with a motivational talk by Heather Mahoney titled “Five Passions, One Purpose,” inspiring attendees to align their service with their personal and professional passions.
That evening, a Meet and Greet Networking Reception brought together board members and special guests. A featured panel discussion with Past Presidents Noreen Timoney (2006–2016), Linda Joseph (2016–2020), and Shirley Pardon (2020–2024) was moderated by Professor Imani L. Warren of FIU. Each past president shared her leadership journey, lessons learned, and what it means to lead in uncertain times. The conversation was both nostalgic and forward-looking—a rare moment of intergenerational wisdom and deep club pride.
Saturday: Learning and Self-Care in Harmony
Saturday began with a continental breakfast and an open snack bar. The morning featured a dynamic presentation by conflict resolution expert Priscilla Dames, who led the group through real-life scenarios on navigating difficult conversations and creating space for resolution and respect.
Later, Roslyn Parker presented on health and wellness, reminding us that we cannot pour from an empty cup. Her insights on maintaining balance and protecting mental health were timely and well-received.
Afternoon programming turned inward with a focus on self-care and mindfulness. Members rotated through 30-minute wellness stations—from breathwork and yoga to art therapy and chair massage. Many described it as the most relaxing Club day in memory.
The evening closed with a powerful communication workshop by Susan Lichtman, titled “Mastering the Art of Communication.” Members learned techniques for active listening, navigating silence, and using body language to connect more deeply with others. A box dinner was provided as participants reflected and regrouped.
Sunday: Creativity, Cupcakes, and Conversation
Sunday morning opened with a casual coffee and tea hour, allowing space for informal connection and shared reflection. Members then traveled to Exit Escape Room Miami for a fun and friendly Cupcake Bake-Off, titled “Sugar Rush.” From edible glitter to frosting art, the creativity on display brought laughter, joy, and just the right amount of competition.
The retreat concluded with an intimate, curated dinner and discussion at 111 NE 1st Street, hosted by Ronnie Bennett, whose guided dialogue on community responsibility, passion projects, and purpose left participants feeling both inspired and grounded.
📌 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: CLUB NEWS & REMINDERS
📆 Club Calendar Updates: The 2024–2025 planning calendar is underway. Committee leads are encouraged to submit proposed activities.
🤝 New Committee Rosters: If you're not yet assigned to a committee, please reach out to the Membership Chair to get involved.
✉️ Have Something to Share? Submissions for the next edition of The Torch are due by September 1, 2024. Photos, member highlights, and upcoming events welcome!
WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED
This season reminded us that we are stronger together. Whether through serving veterans, lifting each other up, or deepening our leadership journeys, The Miami Woman’s Club continues to live its mission through action, compassion, and community.
As we move through the rest of the year, we carry with us the light of every woman who’s ever held this torch—and we’re ready to pass it on.
– The Communications Committee, The Miami Woman’s Club