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.
Left: Janice Chambers, Julie Townsend Smart, Peggy Townsend, Guy Townsend
and Joe Chambers; Right: Libby Blair (2008 philanthropic), Judith Frame (2001 philanthropic),
Jan Kauk (2001 civic) and Freddie Nichols (2007 civic)
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.
Left: Freddie Nichols (2007 civic) and Nancy Dillingham (1992 philanthropic); Right: Bernice Williams, seated (1995 civic); center, Linda Ward (1998
business), Mary Ann Litras (2009 business) and Betty Knight (2003
civic); back, Yvonne Seckington (2004 business), Andy Staley (1999
business) and Jennifer Short (2008 business)
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."
Left: Patty Garney (1989 philanthropic) and Sandra Aust (2000 business)
; Right: Linda Ward (1998 business) and Bernice Williams (1995 civic)
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."
Left: Freddie Nichols (2007 civic), Mary Srack (2005 civic) and Anne
Sizemore (1997 philanthropic); Right: Patsy Triplett (1999 civic) and Fran Bussey (2009 philanthropic)
