Association of Women in Agriculture
Membership Guide
Fall 2015
Sydney Endres
Membership coordinator
Introduction
When you join AWA, you will find life long friends, colleagues and a new home on campus.
Becoming a member involves much more than simply paying your dues but a commitment.
As a potential member, there are certain expectations and requirements you must fulfill to
become an active member of this extraordinary organization. There is a time commitment needed
to become a member of AWA, but we are sure that you will find it worthwhile. We plan our
potential program so that it will not interfere with your studies, but we want you to make a
commitment from the beginning.
Throughout the semester potential meetings will be held. These are conducted by the
Membership Coordinator, and are designed for you to learn about AWA. You will learn about
facts, history, important people, the house and our alumni. The meetings will also serve as a
great way to bond with the sisters in your potential class. During the potential process you will
have the chance to meet the active members by attending active meetings, participating in
service activities, and social activities and events.
Another part of the program is receiving a big sister. You will be assigned an active whom shares
some of your same interests. Use your big to learn more about AWA and meet other actives and
alumni. Your big will not only help you out, but become a close friend. Having a big sister gives
you another connection on campus and your big sister should become a resource for you and
your future plans.
Take the potential program seriously. What you put into AWA is what you get out of it. Put in
the time and effort, and you will develop the professional and personal skills needed to be
successful in life; not to mention respect and deepened friendships from your AWA sisters. Take
the time to become close friends with your pledge class, meet other members and learn about the
history behind the Association of Women in Agriculture.
Your 2015-2016 Membership Coordinator
Sydney Endres
Background Information
Purpose of AWA
The purpose of AWA is to help its members prepare for a career in agriculture and agricultural
related fields; to aid in women in agriculture in achieving their goals; to improve communication
among women in agriculture; and for the general betterment of agriculture.
AWA House Information
Address: 1909 University Ave.
Madison, WI 53726
Phone: (608) 231-3702
Fax: (608) 231-3703
Email: awa_news@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.awamadison.org
AWA Emblem
The circle represents the never-ending harvest of maturity and food in agriculture field (waving
wheat). The hill and mountains represent those we must climb to accomplish our goals (the sun),
which we hold desirable as women in agriculture.
AWA Colors
Sunshine Yellow and Soil Black
AWA Flower
Yellow Rose
AWA Founding
Spring 1973 - Ag Women’s Cooperative
Fall 1974 - Name was changed to the Association of Women in Agriculture
AWA Prayer
Introduced in 1983 when white and blue houses were purchased
“Thank you God for happy hearts,
For rain and sunny weather.
Thank you God for the food we eat,
And that we are together.”
2014-2015 AWA Officers
Principal Officers
President – Emily Selner
Vice President – Jessica Pralle
Secretary – Caitlin Evers
Treasurer – Erica Ballmer
Coordinators
Membership – Sydney Endres
Activities – Rachel Hartlaub
Public Relations – Natalie Endres
Alumni –Mariah Martin
Fundraising – Alyssa Gehring
Scholarship – Mikaela Breunig
Sentinel –Abigail Martin
Sunshine – Caitlin Evers
Communications – Emily Schultz
Service – McKenzie Rowley
House Management
House Manager – Olivia Peter
House Steward – Taylor Behnke
House Assistant- Kristin Broege
How to Be an awa “MeMBer in Good StandinG”
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Attend all mandatory events
Complete 2 service projects
Complete 1 fundraiser
Participate in 1 sister bonding activity
Pay dues by the 2nd meeting
Excused Absences
 Class, exams, or scheduled review sessions
 Studying if you have 3 exams within 24 hour period that the event is planned for
 Family emergencies
 Extreme sickness/injury
 The rest will be submitted to Caitlin and handled on an individual basis
Actions for unexcused Absences
 1st - email notifying of absence
 2nd - email notifying of absence with warning about 3rd
 3rd - no longer a member in good standing, name brought to membership for possible
deactivation
AWA Point System
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The point system is new this year. The purpose of the point system is to award AWA
members for all the activities they do. The basic concept of the system is the more you do
with AWA, the more you will be rewarded for it. Throughout your years at Madison, you
have the opportunity to reach different point levels. When you reach those point levels,
you will receive an award at AWA day.
Active Officer Duties
Principal Officer Duties
President:
 The President will guard the welfare and aims of organizations and see that all officers
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perform his/her respective duties.
The President will preside at all meetings, or request the Vice-President to take the chair.
The President will appoint all officers and committees decreed necessary and not
otherwise provided for.
The President will set all meeting dates, whether of the entire membership or of selected
members and the Executive team members, prepare agendas, and will rule on
membership requests for meetings.
The President will coordinate with the Secretary to keep record of members in good
standing.
The President will work with the Treasurer to write any grant proposals for the
organization.
The President will serve as the chairperson of the team and will call meetings and
distribute information to team members.
The President shall serve on the Association of Women in Agriculture, Inc. Corporation
Board of Directors, and prepare reports for these meetings.
The President shall cote only to break a tie.
The President shall oversee surveying the membership as a method for evaluating the
officer team.
The President will head the AWA student membership Executive Team
Vice-President:
 The Vice-President will assist the President, and in the absence of, or at the request of
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the President, will preside and perform the duties of the President.
The Vice-President will, upon resignation or permanent absence of the President,
succeed to that office until such a time as elections are held.
Vice-President is responsible for communication within the organization and shall
inform members of meetings and activities through a calendar of events and e-mailings.
The Vice-President will keep advisors informed of student membership activities.
The Vice-President shall serve as an ex-officio member on committees and be
responsible for the functioning of all committees and teams.
 The Vice-President will serve on the Marketing Committee of the Association of
Women in Agriculture, Inc.
 The Vice President will serve on the AWA student membership Executive team.
Secretary:
 The Secretary will keep an accurate account of all meetings of the organization and write
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communications. Minutes will be sent out via e-mail within three days and be posted on
the website within three days. A file of all past minutes will be kept.
Secretary shall contract with a photographer, or work with current contractor to have
composites taken. Including an accurate list of members, correct name spellings, and
their positions needed.
The secretary will be responsible for all books, office supplies, and other organizational
property, not otherwise delegated to other Officers or Coordinators.
The Secretary will keep an attendance record.
The Secretary will work with the president to keep record of each members’ status within
the organization. A letter of warning will be sent to members after they have two strikes.
After three strikes, the member is no longer in good standing and will again receive a
letter or email regarding his/her status.
The Secretary will serve on the AWA student membership Executive Team.
Treasurer:
 The Treasurer will be responsible for keeping and submitting organizations financial
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policy and assets, and will make all disbursements in payment of the organizations debts
and obligations.
The Treasurer will collect both membership dues for the Corporation, by the end of each
semester, and the student membership, by the third meeting of each semester. The
Corporation dues will be paid to the Corporation Board each semester.
The Treasurer will maintain accounts as directed by the Board of Directors of the
Association of Women in Agriculture, Inc., and if necessary, with the Student
Organizations Financial Office.
The Treasurer will serve on the Financial Management Committee of the Association of
Women in Agriculture, Inc.
The Treasurer will work with the President to keep record of each members’ status
within the organization, and help write any grant proposals for the organization.
The Treasurer will serve on the AWA student membership Executive Team. The
Treasurer shall live in the AWA house.
Membership Coordinator:
 Membership Coordinator will recruit new members at the beginning of each semester and
throughout the year as well. This will include planning a social event for potentials and
members, usually held the second week of school each semester.
 Membership Coordinator will match big sisters to each potential, and will inform big
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sisters of their responsibilities. Big sisters will be involved in the education and initiation
process of the potential, helping him/her learn the rules and traditions of AWA.
Membership Coordinator will have plaques available for each potential member. The
designing of the plaques will be done by each potential’s big sister before initiation.
Membership Coordinator will facilitate an activity for all potentials. This activity should
be done as a group to encourage bonding and sisterhood between class members during
the education process.
Membership Coordinator will have a professional activity designed to familiarize student
and potential members in a formal business discussion each semester. This activity
should build professional skills.
Membership Coordinator will work with the Activities Coordinator to plan a social event
for students and potentials each semester.
Membership Coordinator will plan the Initiation Ceremony of potential members with the
Executive team and the committee members.
Membership Coordinator will serve on the Marketing Committee of the Association of
Women in Agriculture, Inc.
Activities Coordinator:
 Activities Coordinator will plan the AWA Spring Formal.
 Activities Coordinator will contact the UW Homecoming Committee to obtain
information and inform members of homecoming activities and promote participation
during homecoming week.
 Activities Coordinator will plan other social events for the membership.
Public Relations Coordinator:
 The Public Relations Coordinator will update the AWA booth and take it to functions to
inform people about AWA.
 The Public Relations Coordinator will keep stocks of business cards, stationary, and
envelopes full.
 The Public Relations Coordinator shall provide information to female high school
students about AWA. Mailing lists come from Agriculture Hall acceptance lists and signup sheets from the AWA promotional booth
 The Public Relations Coordinator will serve on the Communications Committee of the
Association of Women in Agriculture, Inc.
Alumni Coordinator:
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Alumni Coordinator will plan AWA Day with the Alumni.
Alumni Coordinator will send the names, phone numbers, and addresses of graduating
AWA members to the alumni membership coordinator each semester.
Alumni Coordinator will plan an alumni social event when alumni and students have the
desire for such an event.
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Alumni Coordinator will help plan Real World Workshop with the Marketing committee.
Alumni Coordinator will serve on the Corporation Board and the Corporation Board and
the Communications and Programming Committees of the Association of Women in
Agriculture, Inc.
Fundraising Coordinator:
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Fundraising Coordinator will organize events to raise money for the membership.
Fundraising Coordinator will organize the auction at AWA Day with proceeds going to
the Education Committee of the Association of Women in Agriculture, Inc.
Scholarship/Awards Coordinator:
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Scholarship Coordinator will provide members with the AWA scholarship applications
from AWA, Inc. and will inform members of other scholarships they may apply for.
Scholarship Coordinator will get plaques/awards for outstanding members as merited.
Scholarship Coordinator will monitor the test files. He/she will encourage and remind
members to donate quizzes and exams to keep the file up-to-date each semester. Files
should not leave the house.
Scholarship Coordinator will head the Formal Interviews Scholarship Program.
Scholarship Coordinator is responsible for AWA member of the month recognition.
Scholarship Coordinator will serve on the Education Committee of the Association of
Women in Agriculture, Inc.
Sentinel Coordinator:
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Sentinel Coordinator will familiarize him/herself with the by-laws of the Association of
Women in Agriculture and the newly revised edition of Roberts’ Rules of Order to keep
order at meetings.
Sentinel Coordinator will assemble slide shows for any appropriate events. Content of
each show should be varied for each audience: use of old pictures should be minimal.
Sentinel Coordinator will have photos taken at all AWA activities and placed on WalMart website and AWA Website for viewing.
Sentinel Coordinator will be in charge of scheduling speakers for selected meetings.
Sentinel Coordinator will be in charge of setting up and taking down the Great Room for
meetings.
Sentinel Coordinator is responsible for planning senior recognition night.
Sentinel Coordinator will assemble a by-laws revision committee when deemed
necessary.
Sunshine Coordinator:
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The Sunshine Coordinator will update the birthday list at the beginning of each year and
add new members throughout the year.
The Sunshine Coordinator will recognize members’ birthdays and meetings with cards
and small gift or candy.
The Sunshine Coordinator will decorate the house for holidays and seasons, including
obtaining and decorating the Christmas tree.
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The Sunshine Coordinator will recognize the graduates each year with a gift.
The Sunshine Coordinator will send cards, flowers, etc. for events deemed necessary.
Communications Coordinator:
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The Communications Coordinator will maintain and update the website on a regular
basis.
o Articles on the website may be written by AWA members.
o Copies of bills must be sent to the Corporation Board Treasurer and Marketing
Committee.
o Communications Coordinator position may be taken for internship credit
dependent on department approval and individual decision.
The Communications Coordinator will serve on the Marketing Committee of the
Association of Women in Agriculture, Inc.
Communications Coordinator will send out e-alerts to the students, alumni, and friends of
AWA as deemed as necessary.
Communications Coordinator will work closely with alumni to proof read and approve
the e-alert prior to being sent.
Communications Coordinator will keep updated email addresses for all those receiving
the e-alert.
The copies of bills must be sent to the Corporation Board Treasurer and Communications
Committee.
Service Coordinator:
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Service Coordinator will coordinate all service activities deemed appropriate by the
membership.
House Manager and House Steward Responsibilities:
House Manager:
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The House Manager will recruit residents by giving out contracts to interested AWA
members, and set up tours or weekend visits for incoming freshman.
The House Managers will maintain equipment and house appearance inside and out,
including but no limited to:
House job assignment (weekly/monthly)
Leaf raking, lawn mowing, snow shoveling/removal
Shampooing carpets, waxing floors for special events
Repair/painting
Responsible for collecting check-in and check-out forms
The House Manager will plan meetings with the House Steward and house residents to go
over/explain house rules and expectations and go over house jobs and fining system. Outof-House Representative shall be notified of all such meetings.
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The House Manager will collect rent, parking, and fines and send to appropriate accounts.
(Rent and parking to AWA Corporation Board Treasurer, fines to house checkbook.)
The House Manager will attend all Corporation Board meetings and serve on the House
Management Committee. A report stating house needs and problems should be given at
these meetings. The House Manager will send a report to the meeting in their absence.
The House Manager will assign rooms according to the established and approved point
system. Parking will be assigned similarly. House Manager and House Steward will have
first pick in parking.
The House Manager will collect a second set of keys from those parking at the house.
The House Manager will plan Parent’s Day with the House Steward.
House Steward:
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The House Steward will purchase food and supplies based on residents’ preferences, the
cook’s grocery list, needed cleaning supplies, etc. Other supplies can be purchased
through distributors or can be purchased by the House Steward.
Large cost items and major house supplies should go to the House Management
Committee for approval and possible funding.
The House Steward will plan meetings with the House Manager to set quarterly House
Bills, assign K-Crews, and evaluate cooks’ performances.
The House Steward will be responsible for the AWA House Cook.
Update contracts as necessary, hire/fire cooks, complete all federal and state tax
forms and pay the cook from the house account.
The House Steward will attend all Corporation Board Meetings and serve on the House
Management Committee. A report stating house needs and problems should be given at
these meetings. The House Steward will send a report to the meeting in their absence.
The House Steward will plan Parent’s Day with the House Manager.
The House Steward will be responsible for encouraging out-of-house members to take
advantage of their free meals and for keeping record of this.
In/Out of House Representatives:
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In and Out of House Representatives will attend all meeting of the Executive team,
House Management Committee, and any house resident meetings.
In House Liaisons will be selected from the elected In-House officers by the
elected In-House Officers.
Out-of –House Liaisons will be selected from the elected Out-of-House officers
by the elected Out-of-House officers.
If there are no Out-of-House officers elected, the Out-of-House Officer will be
nominated from and elected from the membership.
AWA Inc. Board of Directors:
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The board includes thirteen offices – five alumni of the student’s organization, the senior
advisor of the student organization, an off-campus advisor of the student organization, the
active president, the house manager, house steward and alumni coordinator. There is also
a faculty member (either from CALS or the School of Veterinarian Medicine).
AWA Activities
Professional
AWA Day- a day convention for actives and alumni. This day involves seminars/workshops to
build professional skills, the corporation annual meeting, the installation of new officers, silent
auction, slide show and awards.
Officer Retreat – officers and chairpersons spend weekends in August and January planning the
upcoming semester’s activities.
Formal Interviews – actives interview potential members in a professional atmosphere to build
interview and social skills.
Guest Speakers – at selected meetings, professionals from various agricultural careers or AWA
alumni are invited to share their experiences and offer advice and insight to the members.
CALS Career Fair – Each year, many members attend the Career Fair to speak with Companies
and businesses that are offering internships and permanent jobs in the agricultural industry.
Social
Potential Dinner – invite potential members for a picnic/pizza party at the house and hold an
informational meeting. This is a good opportunity to have potentials meet the actives and find
out more about AWA.
Homecoming – Each year AWA participates in many homecoming activities. The biggest task is
teaming up with Sigma Alpha or the Babcock House and decorating a float for the parade.
Parent’s Day – potentials of AWA travel throughout CALS campus to find clues and things. It is
a great opportunity to get to know each other.
Dinner at AGR – AGR invites both active and potentials of AWA. This is a great way to get to
know another student organization affiliated with CALS and to get to know one another better as
well.
Christmas Party – before finals week, the club has a big celebration with food, drink, and music.
Big and Little sisters exchange gifts.
Spring Formal – our major social event, actives and dates enjoy a day and evening of activities at
a unique location each year.
Sports – active in intramural sports since the very beginning. Possible participation in volleyball,
baseball, football, and basketball teams.
Service
Christmas Caroling – go to area convalescent centers, nursing homes and retirement homes to
spread holiday cheer
Food Drive – before Thanksgiving and Christmas, members collect canned goods that are taken
to food kitchens in the area.
Cleanup – once during the school year, members clean up along the Lakeshore Path.
CALS Day for Kids – In the spring, members work at a booth and teach 4th graders about
agriculture in Wisconsin.
And many more service opportunities offered. They vary from year to year.
Fundraisers
Breakfast on the Farm – located in the Stock Pavilion on campus. Events of the day include the
petting zoo, guest speakers, informational club booths, milk mustache pictures, a visit from
Bucky and various entertainment acts such as polka band and cloggers. A vast amount of time is
put into promotions and preparation.
Diggin’ It – AWA Alumni hire members to come help with yard work, projects around the
house, etc.
Restaurant – AWA teams up with local restaurant to participate in their fundraising programs
(ex. Mia Za’s and Qdoba).
Football Parking – at home games, the parking lot at the house is cleared out and Badger fans
can park their vehicles for $15. Many fans tailgate before the game. This is one of AWA’s
biggest sources of funds – especially for scholarships.
Fundraisers vary from year to year. Some past fundraisers include selling cook books, popcorn,
cringles, bagels, and other food items, handing out milk at WDE, and gift wrapping.
AWA HISTORY
In the spring of 1973, ten women majoring in agriculture at the University of WisconsinMadison felt a need to unite. The group included Phyllis Agnew (Gerner), Sue Hyslop
(Lazaricik), Emily Uhlenhanke (Knigge), Donna Cooper, Sue Gall (North), Lois Legatt (Setter),
Aue Alderman (Fritz), Barb Lee, Maureen DeBruin, and Patty Prust (Gonzales). They wanted to
encourage their personal development to prepare themselves for careers in agriculture.
Furthermore, they wanted the camaraderie that the men’s living units on agriculture campus
shared.
These ten women formed an organization called the Ag Women’s Cooperative. They
sought to for a unified group that would aid women in agriculture to achieve their goals and to
improve communication among agriculture women, men, and faculty.
In the fall of 1974, the name was changed. After some investigation, the women found
that they legally could not be called a co-op. So, the group became the first Association of
Women in Agriculture. With the new name, the membership grew. Nellie McCannon was the
first advisor. An early goal was to find a house for the group. Kathy Waite organized the first
house on 308 N. Prospect St. This was AWA’s home for three school years (’75-’78). A letterwriting campaign during 1974 to CALS women graduates raised $300 and attracted interest in
AWA. The money was used to purchase and upright freezer. During these first years, activities
with the men’s agriculture living units (DTS, AGR, and Babcock) helped AWA become
accepted by the men’s units. In 1978, AWA members rented 1935 University Ave. and 4123
Paunack Place.
One early challenge of AWA was being recognized by Ag Hall as being eligible for the
Ag living unit grade point traveling trophy. After recognition, AWA won this award often. The
first spring banquet was held in 1976. Seniors were honored and a dance followed. The annual
banquet also included the installation of new officers and honored outstanding alumni and
actives. A corporation annual meeting was also held at this time. Today, this is replaced with
AWA Day.
Fundraising has always been an integral part of AWA. In 1976, the first Farmer’s
Olympics was held. Teams from all of agriculture campus could participate in the events like
grain slack slide, fecal fling, and numerous eating contests.
A “slave sale” was held in the spring from 1977-80. Because of controversial name, the
name was changed to “Foot Follies” in 1981. People bought the services of AWA. Members
cleaned and washed cars, etc. However, buyers on saw the feet of people they bid on. The
student newspaper, the Daily Cardinal, wrote an article on the slave sale condemning it as
“unethical, antifeminist and setting back the women’s movement.” This prompted to end the
favorite event.
For several years, the group has sold Tupperware. However, one of our biggest sources of
income from 1983 to the present is football parking. On days of the Badger home games, we
clear out the house lots, and the AWA Fundraising Coordinator and members volunteer time to
pack in cars into the lot. Raffles, bake sales, and car washes have also been sponsored. There was
never a complete agreement among members (both active and alumni) as to whether this was the
direction AWA should head. In the spring of 1984, the affiliation was dropped by a vote from
AWA members. We felt we wanted out own identity and chance to expand on our identity and a
chance to expand on out own on a national level.
The first spring formal, then called Spring Fling, was held in 1979. It’s a formal occasion
and our major social event.
As a service organization, we also sponsored the Ag Campus Blood Drive, went
Christmas Caroling at an area convalescent center and volunteer to work for community events.
We helped freshman students in CALS register for classes before it was done by phone.
The Alumni officially formed in 1979, and in 1981, we became incorporated. The change
tied us closer to CALS. Through the corporation, the alumni and actives are one organization.
The Board of Directors acts as the corporation’s governing body.
The first newsletter also came out in 1979. It has served as a way to keep alumni and
actives informed of what is happening, four times a year. The summer picnic, where actives and
alumni gather at the home of a member or at the house, began in 1980.
An advisory committee including Dr. Larry Satter, Rick Daluge, Nadine (Johnson) Miller
and Jan Wheaton, was formed to look into housing. After a long and difficult search, the houses
on University Avenue (1909 and 1915) were purchased in 1983. The blue and white houses held
19 girls. Members started living here in the fall of 1983 and continued to do so until the new
house was built at 1909 University Ave. in 1994. Rural Insurance helped in financing the two
houses. Phil Harris did the legal work and Dr. Satter, along with many others, helped to achieve
the major goal of AWA.
After many years of planning and fundraising, AWA’s dream came true. At 1909
University Avenue, the new house stands where the old blue house once stood. This dream was
made possible by the relentless efforts of our alumni including: Sharon Brantmier, New House
Committee Chair and Jodi Saevre, Fundraising Chair.
On the professional side, AWA hosted its first National Ag Women’s Conference in 1985
and continues the regular event called AWA Day. We also organize an annual careers
conference. A database was started on all members by Barb Cooper Sherman and Roger
Sherman. This keeps all addresses, parents and other information on all the corporation’s
members and supporters.
AWA’s past and present members have made it what it is today. We hope that you as
new members will find AWA to be rewarding and find last friendship as we have.
AWA HOUSING HISTORY
Our first house was located at 308 North Prospect and organized by Kathy Waite Braun
in 1975. Twelve members lived there the first two years and it was rented through 1978.
In April of 1978, Daphne (Johnson) Holterman and Eloise (Wettach) Saeman made
contracts with a University Avenue area landlord to rent properties at 1935 University Avenue
and 412 Paunack Place for 11 AWA members. Rent was divided and one meal a day was eaten
together.
AWA members lived around the area for the next five years at the following addresses:
2005, 2009, 2014, and 1837 University Avenue. Several of these houses acquired nicknames like
the “Green Goddess” and the “Blue Lagoon.”
During the summer of 1979, area realtors were contacted to discuss AWA permanent
housing. Dave Stark of Stark Realty got together with AWA and CALS to work out a financial
plan. Possible houses were located at 150 Langdon Street and Arlington Place. However, there
were problems with both these sites. Arlington Place was a residential area and wasn’t zoned for
our needs. Neighborhood associations were reluctant to allow college organizations in its area.
Property at 1900 University Avenue was considered, but it was decided that the
investment was too great. The houses at 1909 and 1915 were found in 1983. They became
known as the blue and white houses. The white and blue houses were homes to AWA members
for 10 years, until the completion of the new house in 1994. In the fall of 1994, the new house
had its first 26 residents.
AWA has gone through many channels to gain support for our housing. In 1980, Delma
Woodburn became an active AWA supporter, along with WALSAA.
Many people have volunteered their time to AWA. Volunteers include: Rick Daluge, Phil
Harris, Larry Satter, Albert Krummins, Rodger Palmer, as well as many students and alumni.
Deb Boyke adied in the sale of the white house, with the help of Ellery Jensen. Sharon
Brantmeier headed the new house building committee, while Jodi Saevre headed fundraising.
The new house building and building design were completed through the Renchler
Company and Design Coalition. Rural Insurance financed the new mortgage.
AWA TIMELINE
Ag Women’s-Coop formed
1973
1974
Name changed to the Association of Women in Agriculture
First fundraiser was a letter-writing campaign
First house at 301 N. Prospect
1976
First Spring Banquet
Farmers Olympics began
1977
Slave Sale began
1978
Rented 1935 University Ave. and 412 Paunack Place
First Homecoming Warm down held
1979
AWA began affiliation with the Farm House Fraternity
First Spring (Fling) Formal held
Newsletter begins
Alumni organizations formed
1980
Summer Picnic started
1981
AWA incorporated to AWA Inc.
Slave Sale renamed to Foot Follies; died due to controversy
1983
Affiliation with the Farm House ended
1985
Ag Women’s conference began
1989
First representative on Homecoming Court
Fundraising started for new house
1990
Participated in Homecoming with Babcock House for the first time
AWA Day and Ag Women’s conference combined
1994
Blue house torn down, building began in spring
Building completed in August, first residents moved in for the fall semester
Hundreds of donors, faculty, actives, and alumni attend dedication
1995
New house featured in Wisconsin State Journal, receives Community Award
1996
First Kickoff Dairy Breakfast
1997
Record attendance at Dairy Breakfast – over 1000 people served!
1998
AWA celebrates its 25th Anniversary at AWA Day at the ne Monona Terrace Convention Center
1999
Received Cancer Walk regocnition for our outstanding performance and fundraising for the cause
AWA had a member on the Homecoming Court
2000
Record attendance at Dairy Breakfast – over 1,500 people served
2003
AWA celebrates its 30th anniversary
2004
AWA House celebrates its 10th Anniversary
2006
AWA had a member on Homecoming Court
2007
Breakfast on the Farm is successful back at the Stock Pavilion
2008,2009
AWA had a member on Homecoming Court
AWA PRESIDENTS
1973-74
1974-75
1975-76
1976-77
1977-78
1978-79
1979-80
1980-81
1981-82
1982-83
1983-84
1984-85
1985-86
1986-87
1987-88
1988-89
1989-90
1990-91
1991-92
1992-93
1993-94
1994-95
1995-96
1996-97
1997-98
1998-99
1999-00
2000-01
2001-02
2002-03
2003-04
2004-05
2005-06
2006-07
2007-08
2008-09
2009-10
2010-11
2011-12
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
2015-2016
Jody Spanul
Beth Wilhelm
Sue Fritz Alderman
Maureen DeBruin
Barb Spanbauer Flynn
Lynnette Becker Pozorski
Daphne Johnson Holterman
Jeanne Larson Alling
Dorothy Farrell
Eloise Lohr
Laurie Wegner Konech
Cathy Lins
Valerie Johnson Breunig
Julie Straffrude Schleicher
Leslie Debels
Dianne Deaton Vielhuber
Jodi Klusmyer Saevre
Lisa Mullen Konkel
Janet Steiner Brown
Kari Slark
Sonja Jensen
Mary Ellen Lerum Karls
Kim Badtke
Katy Duwe Katzman
Tammy Voegeli
Deanna Drissel Kovar
Sara Brantmeier Harbaugh
Tonya Bockhop Birkrem
Kristin Barlass Paul
Mary Knigge
Jessie Ivey Potterton
Kristina Duwe Hopkins
Devon Frei McWilliams
Eliza Ulness
Christina Wendorf
Danyel Hosto
Stephanie Paull
Abbie Jo Holig
Ashley Nimtz
Sami Benz
Megan Nelson
Kayla Krueger
Emily Selner
AWA ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Honorary Members
Occasionally, AWA Inc. chooses an Honorary Member. This person is someone who has helped
AWA a great deal in the past. The award was started in 1985. In that particular year, AWA felt
that there were several people who contributed to AWA and helped the organization accomplish
many of their goals. When AWA chooses to show their appreciation and thanks to a special
friend of the group, they are elected as Honorary Members. With this honor they receive an
AWA pin and their name is added to a permanent plaque in the AWA house.
1985
Delma Woodburn – A farm girl, her late husband was an engineer professor at the University of
Wisconsin-Madison. She was one of the first woman to graduate from Short Course in 1940. She
donated $1,500 to our study room project. Delma lived just a few blocks from the AWA house
on Prospect Ave. She passed away November 9, 2001 at the age of 102.
Gordon Berg – A dairy farmer and a owner of Virgo Farms near Brownsville, WI. Mr. Berg
attended the Farm and Industry Short Course some years ago. He also contributed $1,000 to the
study room project.
Phil Harris – Phil taught Ag Economics 336, better known as “Farm Law.” He donated many
hours of his time during AWA’s incorporation, house purchase, etc. He also is a Farmhouse
Alumnus.
Lyman Farzer – As head of investments for Rural Insurance, Mr. Frazer approved money for our
house below current interest rates to a fairly risky group! He passed away in 1991.
Dr. Larry Satter - A longtime faculty advisor, Dr. Satter worked at the U.S. Dairy Forage
Research Center. He assisted the student chapter with events and served on the corporation
budget. He passed away in 2006.
Jan Wheaton – Jan was the Minority Affairs Coordinator for CALS. She has helped AWA by
assisting in miscellaneous details such as copying and reserving rooms for AWA meetings.
1987
Dr. Dave Dickson – “Dr. Dave” was a former chairman of the Dairy Science Dept. Each year
AWA members cleaned his house and he generously donated funds to AWA for our efforts. In
addition, Dr. Dave always promoted our group off Ag campus. He was a major contributor to the
New House Fund. Annual dinners in honor of Dr. Dave’s birthday were held at the AWA house
in appreciation of his longtime friendship. Dr. Dave continued to be a valued friend to AWA
until and after his death in 2010.
Joan Stanstadt – Jan was a longtime corporation board member who helped to promote AWA at
the state level through her reporter position at both the Wisconsin State Farmer and the AgriView. She has written numerous articles on the organization, its successes and new house
fundraising.
1992
Barb Tensfield – Barb served as the off-campus advisor on the corporation board along with
playing a role on the new house fundraising committee. She also contributed to several other
AWA committees and was a former staff member of the UW-Extension.
Honored Guest
This person or organization is recognized by the active chapter because they have donated a
significant amount of time or resources to AWA. This individual or organization has
demonstrated outstanding support for the active chapter and their interest is sincerely
appreciated.
2015 – Dave Black, WSUM
2014 – Q106
2013 – Blain’s Farm and Fleet
2012 – Jill Armbruster
2011 – Susan Orth
2010 – Sharon Brantmeier
2009 – Barb Lee
2008 – Gourmet Delight Mushrooms
2007 – Larry Satter Family
2006 – Richard Barrows
2005 – Elton Aberle
2004 – Cheryl McCarthy Family
2003 – WALSAA
2002 – Daughters of Demeter
2001 – Cargill Animal Nutrition-Ana Gleason
2000 – Sunny Fresh Foods
1999 – Foremost Farms
1998 – Badgerland Farm Credit Service
1997 – Wisconsin State Farmer
1996 – Dr. Dave Dickson
1995 – Marjorie Stieve
1994 – Jodi Saevre
1993 – Gretel Dentine
1992 – Roy Hughs
1991 – James Armbruster
1990 – Dick Detlor
1989 – Roger Sherman
1988 – Deb Wendorf-Boyke
1987 – Fonna Morton
1986 – Sue Krull
1985 – Jan Wheaton
1984 – Dr. Larry Satter
1983 – Barb and Fred Flynn, Phil Harris
1982 – Dr. Larry Satter
1981 – Barb Lee
1980 – Maureen DeBruin
1979 – Phyllis Gerner Agnew
1978 – Kathy Waite
1977 – Dr. Dave Dickson
Friend of AWA
The Friend of AWA is awarded to someone who has been very involved with the active chapter
of AWA throughout the year. This person has provided us with guidance and support and has
served as a mentor to us by setting a positive example. We recognize this person for going above
and beyond the call of duty to help AWA and its members.
2015 – Melissa Cheeks
2014 – Kylene Anderson
2013 – Jessie Potterton
2012 – Ted Halbach
2011 – Molly Jahn
2010 – Vita Plus
2009 – Ron Curran
2008 – Norlin Benevenga
2007 – Katy Katzman
2006 – Karen Topel
2005 – Jim Deley & Parking Crew
2004 – Ronna Morton Balmer
2003 – Tom Wright & West Madison Crew
2002 – Bob Williams
2001 – Gene Blabaum
2000 – Bob and Lisa Hagenow
1999 – Barb Mickelson
1998 – Marjorie Stieve
1997 – Bonnie Bungert
1996 – Joylenne Nagel
1995 – Dick and Joanne Detlor
1994 – Ellery Jensen
1993 – Jayne Krull
1992 – Dwayne Brickson
1991 – Liz McCarthy
1990 – Valerie Breunig
1989 – Barb Cooper Sherm
Outstanding Alumnus
The Outstanding Alumnus award goes to an AWA alumnus who is excelling in a career in
agriculture. We recognize this individual for their commitments to their family, community, and
the agriculture industry. The Outstanding Alumni is an excellent role model for AWA members.
2015 - Sharon Brantmeier
2014 – Susan Riedan
2013 – Marcy Tessmann
2012 – Jenny Dierickx
2011 – Jessie Potterton
2010 – Naomi Uhlenhake
2009 – Becky Mentik
2008 - Julie Larson
2007 – Jill Makovec
2006 – Marjorie Stieve
2005 – Daphne Holterman
2004 – Shelly Mayer
2003 – Lisa Mullen Konkel
2002 – Jayne Krull
2001 – Cheryl Zimmerman
2000 – Barb Cooper Sherman
1999 – Sandy Trustem
1998 – Mary Ellen Lerum
1997 – Jill Armbruster
1996 – Dianne Delton
1995 – Barb Mickelson
1994 – Sharon Brantmeier
1993 – Daphne Holterman
1992 – Diane Moll
1991 – Barb Lee
1990 – Sharon Brantmeier
1989 – Barb Lee
1988 – Valerie Breunig
Outstanding Woman in Agriculture
This Award goes to a woman whose dedication to the agriculture industry has been a great asset
to women. They have continually shown sincere interest in AWA and are an asset to our
organization.
2015 - Julie Larson
2014 – Kim Bremmer
2013 – Ann Hoskins
2012 – Elizabeth Henry
2011 – Daphne Holterman
2010 – Rosalie Geiger
2009 – Susan Crane
2008 – Pam Jahnke
2007 – Sheila McGurik
2005 – Keri Retallick
2004 – Joann Maedke
2003 – Mary Hasheider
2002 – Cris Peterson
2001 – Joan Sanstadt
2000 – Jennie Maier
1998 – Deborah Lins
1997 – Ardath DeWalle
1995 – Ayse Somerson
1994 – Judy Klusman
1993 – Carol Ward Knox
1992 – Delma Woodburn
Other Notable Individuals
Mr. and Mrs. Ira Baldwin – Former Dean of CALS, Ira then became Vice-President of the
University. They lived in Shorewood Hills and have taken an interest in AWA, They have
donated a sewing machine among other things.
Marcy Schultz Heim – An AWA alumnus, Marcy was the Development Director for the UWFoundation of CALS. She set up our education foundation and has chaired the committee to raise
funds.
Rick and Peggy Daluge – The Daluge’s helped AWA search for a house and get organized.
Peggy has served on the House Management Committee as well as on the New House
Committee. Rick was a former CALS Short Course Dean.