Today's DAR
Later this month a new DAR Administration will take the helm, and while we still have several events to look forward to as the Wright Administration concludes, I wanted to take a moment to reflect and express my gratitude to all our members and staff for what you have accomplished these past three years.
Reflections from the Executive Officers: President General
A few weeks ago, I was asked what I had learned from all my DAR travels as your President General. Reflecting on my visits to 51 “DAR States” (including the District of Columbia and France), I was struck first by how beautiful our country is. I will never forget the grandeur of seeing Mount Rushmore for the first time, or the unexpected splendor of the plains. Each visit showed me a new side of American culture, and even the excitement of attending events like the Indy 500 Qualification Day. What was common throughout my travels were the amazingly friendly and generous Daughters I met wherever I went. I am so grateful for the many acts of kindness and the incredible gifts you gave, and I know that this is the true spirit of the DAR.
During the previous weeks you have read about the Administration accomplishments through our Executive Officers. Whether it’s celebrating the more than 21 million hours of community service we completed or the millions of dollars we have contributed for projects and scholarships across our mission areas, we have a lot to be proud of.
One of the projects most dear to my heart is the restoration of Memorial Continental Hall. The Wright Administration took this on with love and care for our history, our DAR predecessors, and reverence for our Revolutionary War Patriots to whom the building is dedicated. The project has been a massive undertaking and the most substantial renovation to the building in more than 50 years. From the restored façades to updated plumbing and meticulous detail work on fixtures and trim, we are grateful for the opportunity to secure our building for generations to come.
As we look to America’s 250th, there has never been a time as now for DAR service. Each of our members need to know that we are having a real and positive impact across the country. We are an organization of “doers” and will remain focused on advancing historic preservation, education, and patriotism wherever these missions need a champion. Our success starts at the chapter level through service and is compounded across the layers of the organization.
I have been in DAR for 38 years and went to my first meeting knowing no one. I leave office full of fondness for our National Society and with a heart overflowing with gratitude for the many talented women who I have served with and learned from these many years. Thank you to my fellow Executive Officers, the members of the National Board, our tireless staff, and all those who have helped to propel our success these past three years. Serving as your 46th President General has been the honor of my life and I am so grateful for each and every one of you.
Change is healthy for the National Society, and I look forward to stepping into a new role while continuing to serve alongside you and in my community for years to come. Let’s Rejoice in our DAR Ties of Service and Friendship!
