HUGHESVILLE, Md., May 23, 2025 — The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) marked a significant milestone with the launch of its American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC) campus chapter. The inaugural Officer Installation and New Member Pinning Ceremony, held at the Regional Hughesville Campus, celebrated the chapter’s commitment to leadership, equity, and the advancement of women in higher education.
Dr. Kandace Foreman, chapter president-elect and emcee, opened the event, emphasizing its importance. “This is a momentous occasion,” Foreman said. “A celebration of leadership, service, connection, and new beginnings.” The ceremony featured the installation of the chapter’s first executive officers for the 2025–2026 term: Foreman as president, Sylvia Royster as vice president, Tamara Gibbs-Franklin as secretary, and Lesley Quattlebaum as treasurer. Each officer took a public oath to uphold AAWCC’s mission of supporting women in community colleges.
A keynote address by Dr. Yolanda Wilson, CSM president and president-elect of the national AAWCC, highlighted the chapter’s role in fostering professional growth. “Our AAWCC-CSM chapter represents more than a local milestone. It is a meaningful step forward in our shared commitment to foster connection and belonging at CSM, while expanding leadership and professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. And with the strength and synergy that comes with being part of a national network of women dedicated to expanding opportunity, uplifting one another, and leading with purpose, our impact will be that much more powerful,” Wilson said. As a national leader, Wilson guided the chapter’s formation, connecting it to AAWCC’s broader network.
The ceremony also recognized over 60 new members, each receiving a membership pin and certificate. Members collectively recited a pledge affirming their dedication to professional development, inclusion, and advocacy. Gibbs-Franklin, the chapter secretary, presented a reading of Empowered Journey, a poem reflecting themes of resilience and unity.
Foreman closed the event with remarks on the chapter’s future, announcing a Fall Mixer in August at the Velocity Center. “We built this chapter from the ground up—and we are just getting started,” she said. “Leadership is not about titles; it is about presence, purpose, and people. You belong here.”
The AAWCC–CSM Chapter aligns with the national organization’s mission, established in 1973, to champion women’s leadership and equity in community colleges. As an affiliate of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), AAWCC supports women through education and community engagement. Membership is open to all CSM faculty and staff, fostering an inclusive environment for professional growth.
The chapter’s formation reflects CSM’s commitment to creating opportunities for women in higher education. With a robust membership and a clear vision, the chapter aims to host events and initiatives that promote leadership and collaboration. The upcoming Fall Mixer will provide a platform for networking and planning future activities, strengthening ties among members and the broader CSM community.
The ceremony underscored the importance of community colleges in advancing equity and opportunity. By joining AAWCC’s national network, the CSM chapter gains access to resources and support for its members’ professional development. The chapter’s leadership team, backed by Wilson’s national involvement, positions it to make a lasting impact at CSM and beyond.
