By Kellie Houx, Editor of KC Studio
Since 1988, 66 women have been honored as part of a cadre of
dedicated women committed to improving first, their families, the
Northland community and beyond through their business, philanthropic
and civic endeavors. These women are Anne Robb Townsend Award
Recipients.
In 1988, the late Harold "Hal" Townsend, publisher and founder of Townsend Communications, initiated the Anne Robb Townsend Tribute to Excellence Awards named after his mother. The awards recognize women in the Northland community who excel in business, civic endeavors and philanthropy. The awards have been part of an annual event with honorees nominated by their peers and celebrated with a tea.
Townsend Communications Publisher Guy Townsend said one of the
tremendous benefits of being in the newspaper business was getting to
know those in the community, especially those who have contributed
greatly to the Northland. "I was looking at the plaques and noticed
the first year recipient for philanthropy, Doris Frank (an advocate
for special needs youth and adults). I thought about ... these
extraordinary people making significant contributions without a lot
of recognition. I have learned from the women honored. When Anita
Gorman (civic, 1988) came calling, she came prepared. Then there is
Nancy Dillingham (philanthropic 1992) and Patty Garney (philanthropic
1989), Andy Staley (business 1999) and Judge Jane Brown (business
1994). I have known Sarah Snow (civic 1992) the longest. She visited
our seventh-grade civics class. She was such a trailblazer in
politics. It has been a tremendous honor for the Townsend family to
present these awards."
Peggy Townsend, Guy's mother and Hal's wife, said her husband was close to his mother who lived a life of service. "She brought Hal up in a tradition of service. We then imparted that to our children. It has been so much fun to honor all of you and look at all of what you have inspired."
