Today marks the first day of women’s history month and I am very excited to introduce our readers to the Junior League of New Orleans 2022 Sustainer of the Year Laura Shields. As you will read in our feature article she comes from a long line of not only Junior League of New Orleans members, but also Sustainer of the Year recipients! This honor is a testament to her dedication to JLNO, the community, and family values.Â
Speaking of women’s history month, we recognize the efforts of all of the amazing women that have broken barriers, pushed forward to advance our lives, and spoken up for those unable to. Although it may seem difficult to feel like we are making a historical difference in the lives of those around us at the moment, I feel it is important to pause and reflect. As an educator and mother it is sometimes difficult to recognize the long term impact of our day to day actions. The students that I taught years ago that came to me unable to read and some not yet able to communicate are now in high school thriving with the foundational skills learned in Kindergarten. Our collective efforts may not be on the news, but they are life changing for sure. From signing up for a volunteer shift at the JLNO diaper bank to supporting fundraising efforts that further the reach of advancing the wellbeing of women. When women are supported in the community, we all benefit!Â
In this issue we feature a Q & A of ways members can stay active and connected to the league during the age of Zoom. Our membership has a variety of comfort levels and JLNO is happy to provide opportunities for members to participate in person as well as virtually to accommodate the varying needs of our members.Â
For those members who feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or at a standstill, take this as your opportunity to take small steps to reconnect to the league, invest in your community, and lean on your fellow JLNO member. No one person can do the work alone, but if we all work together doing what we can, when we can, in the capacity that we have then we can make large historical impacts.Â
By supporting women, JLNO elevates the entire local community.Â
Ashley Millet, 2022 Lagniappe Editor
