Women In Leadership Award presented to Ann Swenson

The Rotary Club of Edina presented the seventh-annual “Chrysanne Manoles Women In Leadership Award" at the Thursday, May 26, meeting. Ann Swenson, Edina City Council member, was the 2016 recipient of the award. 

Reflecting society in 1905, the Rotary organization was limited to male members and remained so officially until 1989, when the Council on Legislation, Rotary’s parliament, voted to eliminate the male-only provision, opening up membership to qualified women across the world. However, the forward-thinking Rotary Club of Edina welcomed its first female member, Chrysanne Manoles, a year earlier in 1988. Manoles continues to be active in Rotary.

In Manoles’ honor and to celebrate the work of women in the community, the Rotary Club of Edina established an annual women’s leadership award in 2008. Previous winners include Dr. Laurel Wills, Ann Byrne, Donna Tilsner, Katey Taylor, Kim Foote and Kris Marshall.

Nominees for the award are found by soliciting the public for candidates. Nominees cannot be current Rotarians and must live, work or volunteer in Edina. Female nominees must demonstrate Rotary’s “Four-Way Test” of the things we think, say or do: Is it the truth? Is if fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

 

While honoring this year's winner, Ann Swenson, Chrysanne mentioned all the ways she has served the city and community. She shared some of the many projects Ann has tirelessly pioneered for the city, including public art such as the sculpture of "Spaulding" the dog at 50th and France; and the 66 West Apartments in Edina, supportive housing for youth and young adults who have experienced homelessness. 

The 2015 "Chrysanne Manoles Women of Leadership Award" winner Kris Marshall spoke at the meeting about her work with the Edina Community Foundation. 

 

Congratulations Ann!