2024-20 Guild President
Dear Ladies of The Guild,
It is truly a privilege to serve as Guild President this year, our 50th anniversary! The seed for our organization was planted in November 1974 by a group of Christian women with hearts dedicated to supporting HBU, under the guidance of The President, hence the name, President’s Advisors. It was a unique opportunity for these women to not only support campus events, but to also spread information throughout the community about this amazing Christian university. Within two years, the first Guild Christmas luncheon was held. This event has become a tradition for our group and provides an opportunity to introduce the community to HCU and The Guild, but most importantly to our Savior, Jesus Christ. Mary Fischer and Ellen Heller have planned a wonderful celebration for us this year that you will not want to miss!
In 1994, The Guild established their Scholarship Program for graduate students in Education, and later added programs in Theology. Another traditional event began as a pathway for funding these scholarships – The Silver Tea, held in the Spring. Lisa Ammerman and Madeline Collier are finalizing the details for this year’s tea. We are so grateful to Elizabeth Stevenson for serving as the Underwriting Chair again!
In 2009 The Guild created The Guild Institute in Christan Family Studies. Katie Alaniz and Vickey Giles have planned this year’s event, HCU’s All-Star Panel of Guild Scholars. We will hear updates from the Department of Education, including some past Guild Scholarship recipients.
The Guild has continued to grow and expand their outreach over the years. We assist Sue Sloan with University events at their home, and we have added social events to our calendar, such as our Fall Membership Coffee. Trish Greaser and Gina Saour are chairing the Fall Coffee this year. We will also have a Special Event for our membership in the Spring, being chaired by Martha Downs and Jennifer Townsen. I am so grateful to have a fabulous executive board for this 50th year!
The word ‘grow’ in the dictionary is followed by the example of seed growing – a process of expanding in size and evolution. Over the past 50 years, The Guild has grown tremendously in its programs, its influence in the community, and its support of students. This growth is so special because we have been led and blessed by God to continue growing as we seek to support HCU, a university that is “deeply rooted in the authoritative Word of God.” I look forward to continuing our mission to support HCU as we “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18
In His Love,
Cathy Wheatley