Highlights of the October 2020 Executive Week

For more than a century, early October has meant the return of the National Board of Management to our headquarters to discuss and direct the important business of the National Society. Sadly, that could not occur this year due to the pandemic. However, that important business was completed using virtual platforms. In addition, Recording Secretary General Peggy Troxell and Historian General Laura Kessler were able to safely join with me in person throughout the Executive Week – it was a joy to spend time and to work alongside them, following all necessary safety protocols.

Much was accomplished, and this blog reflects only several highlights:

Three important items deserve special emphasis:

1. I express deep gratitude to all who have supported (and continue to support) The Next Act, the official project of this administration. No Daughter would recognize her beloved Constitution Hall were she to tour it today—scaffolding reaches to the ceiling; all finishes and fixtures have been removed; and even the floor has been demolished for re-pouring due to structural cracking. None of this construction would be possible were it not for your generosity. The cost of the project has now climbed above $10 million – but there is truly no going back at this point. There have been some exciting developments – we have been able to recreate the design for the fabric used for the seats at the original dedication; we are working to select the final design for the custom carpet; and we have seen a sneak preview of the overhead starlight LED lighting project. Ladies: this officer assures you that you will be immensely proud to say that you contributed to this restoration of our historic auditorium. When finished, she will be a showcase of both historic preservation and modern technology. Thank you for making it possible. A more comprehensive blog will follow next week regarding additional details on construction progress.

2. We have approved an important five-year initiative to increase awareness of Revolutionary War Patriots of minority descent as we approach the 250^th anniversary of the nation.  The effort, now proposed to be called the E Pluribus Unum Educational Project, was launched on the Opening Night of the 129^th Continental Congress as a way that DAR can help to raise appreciation for the sacrifice and courage of ALL Patriots, hence its call to remember that “From many, we are one.” The cross-functional effort will be led by the DAR Library team and will seek to not only increase the number of known Patriots of color in our Genealogical Research System but also contribute to consciousness raising through videos, lesson plans, forums and other outreach materials. It is proposed to expend $100,000 per year for a total investment of at least half a million dollars in commitment to this important purpose. We are committed to better telling the stories of these Patriots, who have all too often been left out of the pages of history – and to welcoming their descendants into our Society.