August 2024

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

I hope this letter finds you well. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, it is important that we lean on, support, and learn from one another. The Delaware ACE Women’s Network (DAWN) is here to do just that. DAWN is the statewide chapter of the American Council on Education (ACE) Women’s Network whose mission is to support you. We do this through professional development programs and networking events organized by DAWN’s Executive Committee (EC).   

We currently have 17 members on the EC representing Delaware State University, Delaware Technical and Community College, Goldey-Beacom College, University of Delaware, and Wilmington University. These women are responsible for the daily operations required to run our organization and our events. Serving on the DAWN EC and in my current role as president has been a highlight of my career because of the women I work with, what we do, and how we do it. We are committed to working together collaboratively in service to our members. It is amazing to see what we can accomplish when we work together!

Speaking of amazing women working together, I am pleased to announce our 2024–25 officers:

  • President-Elect Dr. Karen Sheats, Wilmington University
  • Vice President Dr. Debra Troxler, Delaware Technical and Community College
  • Secretary Ms. Joy Jordan, University of Delaware
  • Treasurer Ms. Sarah ElShawarby, Goldey-Beacom College

Many thanks to outgoing members of the EC, Eleanor Kelly, Jocelyn Moses, LeaNora Ruffin, and Valdese West for their many years of service to DAWN and its members.

As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible work our network has accomplished. We hosted eleven webinars, two volunteer events, a networking event, a provost’s luncheon, a craft night, multiple podcasts, and our annual leadership summit and awards dinner. We also transitioned to a new web platform that will allow us to provide you with more timely information and streamlined registration and payment processes.

I encourage you to spend some time perusing our new website and getting to know us. To stay abreast of all DAWN and ACE national activities, please become a member of our chapter today. Membership is only $30. 

As a DAWN member, you play a vital role in shaping the future of higher education. Please help us to continue to amplify our impact by championing women’s leadership and promoting positive change within our institutions.

Warm regards,

Kathy Murphy, MPA

President, DAWN
Associate Director, Institute for Public Administration
Biden School of Public Policy and Administration
University of Delaware