A paper entitled ‘Why Women In Politics?’ published by the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs states: “women’s political participation has profound positive and democratic impacts on communities, legislatures, political parties, and citizen’s lives, and helps democracy deliver.” Two area women, Marsha Waggoner and Rosella Rowlison, who have participated in the political process themselves – one currently and the other a number of years ago – will speak to members, prospective members and guests of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), Oakdale-Riverbank-Escalon Branch at the April 11 meeting. Their talk will focus on why we need women elected officials and how important it is for women to vote.

In 1983 Marsha Waggoner ran for the Sylvan Elementary School Board in Modesto. She won, ending her tenure in 1999. She has also been an active member of the League of Women Voters for many years serving on their voter services committee, which plans and prepares non-biased information on ballot measures, candidates, positions and priorities. Rosella Rowlison, who recently ran as a write-in candidate in the March 5 Primary Election for Assembly District 9, got her feet wet in the political arena, serving as the President of the College Democrats while attending San Jose State University. Before earning her teaching credential, she worked for a number of Congress members, and interned at the White House for four months in 1996. In 2004 she started teaching Government, Economics, and History classes at Galt High School and Liberty Ranch High School. She is completing her 20th year teaching in Galt. The Thursday evening, April 11 meeting will be held at the Escalon Library Community Room beginning at 7 p.m. For more information about the meeting and its location, call Judy at (209) 480-0387.

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. The nonpartisan, nonprofit organization has more than 170,000 members and supporters across the United States, as well as 1,000 local branches and more than 800 college and university members. Learn more at www.aauw.org. Branch information is at http://ore-ca.aauw.net or by emailing the branch at AAUW.ORE@gmail.com. Graduates holding an associates or higher degree from an institution of the AAUW list of qualified institutions and persons holding an honorary degree are eligible for membership in AAUW.