It wasn’t until I began working as a National Vice Chair that I realized what goes on behind the scenes and how many Daughters contribute to making committees work. The National Chairs and Vice Chairs get their pictures on the National Website, but we have worked with other women who are somewhat anonymous to most of you. For the past three years, I have worked with Lesa Barker (Colorado), Aryssa Damron (D.C.), Liz Hawn (Idaho), Elizabeth Jones (Texas), Lyndsey Laminack (Texas, but a New York Daughter), Sherry Maxwell (Maryland), Julie Pittmann (Washington), Eileen Roberts (California, but moved to Ohio), Tara Rodi (Washington), and Michelle Thomas (Colorado). This blog will be very long, but it's a way that I can personally recognize and thank these incredible women.
Liz, Julie, and Eileen evaluated websites before 2022; others came on board when I began in 2022; and others joined us within the past two years. Apparently, we had a smooth transition because they never complained about what I was doing, and some of these women want to continue as judges. And remember…they are volunteering their time for this committee!
When we look at websites, we find similar statements about the varying careers of chapter members. Our committee had several educators who are mostly retired, but one who is still working as a full time Title One school librarian; another works as a career theatre manager. Others have retired from PR & Marketing, a hospital dietician, a FAA Air Traffic Controller, bookkeeper (for her businesses), and an accounting software manager. What do we all have in common — our desire to serve DAR.
Here are some thoughts that they have had about serving as judges (or evaluators) for the many websites. I thought their words were important and well stated.
“I have seen the professionalism grown in our Daughters’ ability to create wonderful websites. It’s a joy. Each chapter is unique with its own personality. I look for that in their websites. Daughters around the world have embraced connecting with others through their websites and other social sites. Because of all these connections, DAR continues to grow in membership and knowledge.” - Julie Pittmann, Honorary State Regent Washington State (served 2016-2018)
There is something special about Julie Pittman, and if you ever had the opportunity to work with her, you know what I mean. She could stop all of this volunteer work for DAR, but she continues because she loves it. Her comments are always so positive about each site we evaluate. Julie and I only know one another through emails, but her kindness always came through even when life was difficult for her. Thank you, Julie.
“The stellar graphics on some [websites] are outstanding! I especially enjoy the sites that are interactive, having the user click on this, and that is always fun. It’s also a pleasure to read about what other chapters are accomplishing throughout our great nation. I greatly enjoyed volunteering on this committee, and I am glad I now have a friend who hails from Ohio.” - Elizabeth Jones, Current Texas State Coordinator for the New Horizons course in Texas; previous District Director and State Vice Chair of hotel coordination
I can't believe how Elizabeth and I just "clicked." We tend to view the websites in the same way -- at least some of our scores are very similar. Again, through our email communications, we built a friendship. She even invited me to the Texas Tea at C.C. for two years in a row. I think I'm almost ready to become an honorary Texan. I have a hat that would work, and I like barbecue. I enjoyed working with you, and this friendship must continue.
“What has impressed me the most about the Websites of the Month is the focus on the visitor experience, showcasing what it’s truly like to be a DAR member. I love seeing photos and detailed descriptions of activities. Additionally, I really appreciate when the tone is warm and welcoming.” - Michelle Thomas
Because of Michelle’s experience as an educator dedicated to special education, she is more aware of accessibility.
“When reviewing websites, I consider how people with different needs—such as those with vision or mobility challenges—might interact with them. My goal is to help ensure every website can be accessed and used by all.” - Michelle Thomas, State Vice Chair VIS Committee with a focus on Social Media.
How lucky was I to get someone like Michelle on my team! Michelle's comments show her expertise in so many aspects of website design. I hope others appreciate her desire to make things easier for others. She has a heart and passion for all of our members. Thank you, Michelle.
“Some of the websites have been amazing in terms of chapter history, stories told, and design. I love seeing some of the action pictures of different chapters around the country, and I have been very impressed by some of the websites in terms of quality of pictures, wording, and design choices. I enjoyed working with the other committee members. It really was lovely to read comments and hear from other committee members around the country.” - Tara Rodi, WSSDAR 2024-2026 National Defense Committee member, current chapter regent
Tara joined us more recently, and from the beginning she asked relevant questions to make sure she was consistent with the judging process. She is an enthusiastic Daughter and is making contributions to her state as well. I appreciated every email from you, Tara. Thank you.
“I like the websites that spell out specifically what the chapter does in their community, and I like to see lots of images of chapter members having fun together.” - Liz Hawn, ISSDAR Master Report Committee Chair, chapter treasurer
Liz had to leave us as a judge a few months ago, but her work through the 'almost' three years was valuable. Now, she is focusing on making her own chapter stronger, and that is so important. Thank you, Liz, for your dedication.
“I am impressed by the way they [chapters/states] highlight what makes their group unique! I love seeing the hyperlocal stuff—the specific partnerships with schools and local Patriot grave-markings and so many historical houses. I enjoyed learning so much about the variety in DAR all over the country!” - Aryssa Damron, National Division Vice Chair of Literacy Promotion (coordinating monthly Zoom events with authors and nonprofits working in the literacy space), NVC of the Commerce Committee (specifically working with the DAR Museum Store to highlight and market their products), Co-Chief Page of the Congress Herald at Continental Congress, D.C. PR Chair
This list goes on - I’m not sure if Aryssa ever sleeps, and I mean this in a good way. When I had some technical difficulties, Aryssa offered some valuable trouble-shooting advice. I had the chance to get to know her a little better by joining the Literacy Promotion Zooms. She is so passionate about literacy, teaching, books, and DAR! Oh, to be young again. Thank you, Aryssa, I will be following your work in the future.
“It always impresses me when a website uses a personal approach and not a generic template. The more photos included make it a visual aid for me to see if the ladies are having fun, enjoying what they are doing, etc. The more I can find out about a chapter, the more it makes me want to see exactly what they are doing and what is involved in the service part of the chapter.” - Eileen Roberts, VAVS Committee and SAT (helping applications in the state)
Eileen wanted to work as an evaluator since she had created her chapter's website, and she was interested in seeing what other chapters were doing. Just a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to meet Eileen in person during a special event in Ohio. Eileen moved to Ohio about a year ago, and we had never met. As soon as she introduced herself, we embraced in a big hug. These women have truly become my friends, and I hope they feel that way about me. I envision more opportunities to work together, Eileen.
“I’m impressed by the effort that each chapter puts into designing. Laying out and creating a website is no easy feat! Therefore, I admire the time and energy that goes into developing each and every one!” - Lesa Barker, State Vice Chair Public Relations & Media, past chapter Recording Secretary and Chaplain
Lesa has been another enthusiastic judge. Just a fun fact about Lesa is that she continued judging even as she was involved in wedding planning with her daughter whose wedding is being held in Tuscany this month. And then Lesa and her husband will be touring Italy for a month. (No, I'm not jealous.) She did tell me that she would be "honored to continue judging if she is fortunate to be asked." Attention to the next person in charge of evaluating websites, please make sure you ask Lesa to be on your team.
“What impressed me are the many different ways folks can put their own spin on the basics we’re all trying to cover.” - Lyndsey Laminack, NE Division Vice Chair PR & Media, Chapter Regent and past chapter Recording Secretary
Lyndsey amazed me with her skills in judging the sites. I appreciated her keeping me updated with VIS changes, so I could remind the other judges. Even when she was busy with her job and her family, she volunteered her time. Thank you so much, Lyndsey.
I am grateful to these women, and I’m sure we will remain friends for many more years despite being from all around the country. Viewing the many different websites has taken us to so many beautiful areas in the United States and overseas. That was a pretty easy way to travel. What has impressed me the most has been the sincerity of the creators of these websites and the ways that chapters show their personalities. We have seen some very small chapters achieving some amazing things in their communities. Add that to your “elevator speech.”
If you haven’t created a website for your chapter, now is a great time. I have a feeling we will be attracting new members as we celebrate America 250! If you have time, please consider volunteering to assist this committee.
One more thing I have to add. Whenever a chapter had a Patriots Page, I looked to see if anyone had my Patriot in the list. Unfortunately, I never found him. I'm going to add a few patriots now that I have a little more time to search. Maybe I'll find one of them.