CHESTERTOWN — Celebrating three-quarters of a century of community, history and unwavering support for local students, the Women’s League of Washington College hosted its annual scholarship luncheon on May 12.
The Diamond and Decades-themed event, held in the ballroom of Chester River Yacht & Country Club, brought together members, faculty, students and community friends for an afternoon that honored the organization’s rich past while securing a bright future.
The ballroom sparkled in tribute to the diamond anniversary, featuring an interactive fundraiser flower shop that allowed attendees to take home a piece of the day’s beauty.
The program focused on the deep history of the WLWC, which was founded on May 12, 1951 by then Washington College first lady Helen Gibson.
Attendees were treated to a nostalgic journey through the decades, featuring reflections from past club presidents and intimate, personal stories shared by Helen Gibson’s daughter, Jillian Gibson, who brought the founder’s early vision vividly to life.
Among the guests were Washington College current first lady Sue Matthews, various college staff and the individuals who represent the core of the Women’s League of Washington College mission, its scholarship recipients.
The event bridged the club’s legacy by honoring both current scholarship recipient Kailey Drain and past recipient Kathryn Nordhoff Ralfs, who now works at Washington College.
A highlight of the afternoon was the raffle drawing for the grand prize, a two-night stay at Chestertown’s historic White Swan Tavern paired with a dining gift card to Watershed Alley.
Sue Matthews drew the winning ticket held by Peggi Fisher, a familiar face to locals as a vendor at the Chestertown Farmers Market where she runs Our Greek Market.
Fisher surprised the WLWC’s scholarship committee by immediately turning her win into a moment of philanthropy.
“I am pleased to kickstart your next scholarship fundraising efforts in the name of my parents, John and Norma Michels,” Fisher said.
The surprise donation, which will be formally made through the Fisher Family Fund, “served as the perfect finale for the diamond jubilee, proving that the legacy of giving started by Helen Gibson 75 years ago is still going strong in Chestertown today,” a news release states
2 Responses
LOVED seeing and reading about WCWL….. The ladies looked devine.
Thanks to all the people behind the scene.
And thank you, Alice, for your dedication to the WLWC. You always brought your contagious enthusiasm and bright ideas to the League. We still fly balloons on our cars when collecting items for our various fundraisers in the mall parking lots. We thank you for your continued support.