Gail Dendy's surprise birthday party and room dedication

This past Tuesday, September 16, Jeannette Rankin Foundation founder Gail Dendy was honored with a very special birthday present from her family and friends. When Gail walked in to the new JRF headquarters (in Athens, GA) on Tuesday, she was greeted with flowers, cards, cake -- and a room named in her honor!

Gail's husband, Larry, wanted to give a special gift that would honor Gail and help JRF raise money for our new headquarters. He and several family members gathered together and pledged $5,000 to name one of our offices the "Gail Carter Dendy Room." Gail received a copy of the sign that now stands outside the Gail Carter Dendy Room, highlighting some of her achievements and contributions to JRR.

Gail is one of our organization's "Founding Mothers," a title she is proud to own. Gail, along with founding friends Reita Rivers, Heather Kleiner, Margaret Holt and Susan Bailey started the foundation in 1976 with a charter and 501(c)(3) charitable letter of approval from the IRS.

Pre-order your copy of Daring to Dream today!

Here at Jeannette Rankin Foundation, we are anxiously awaiting the release of our anthology, Daring to Dream: Women Succeeding Through Education. Edited by Sue Lawrence and Suzi Wong, the book recounts the fascinating stories of 30 JRF scholars, told by the women themselves. Each of the book's five chapters features a different uplifting theme: "I've Waited Long Enough," "Overcoming Obstacles," "The Power of Education," "Giving Back" and "Changing Myself and My World." A history of Jeannette Rankin Foundation, written by founder Gail Dendy, is also included.

Daring to Dream makes a wonderful gift and, of course, proceeds will help to further an important cause. The book will be available for purchase later this month, but we are currently accepting pre-orders on both our limited edition hardcover ($26.70, signed by the editors) and our softcover edition ($16). All pre-orders will receive free shipping.

To Order: e-mail info@rankinfoundation.org with your name, number of copies (and hardcover/ softcover specifications) and shipping information. We would also be happy to take your order by phone, at (706) 208-1211.

As the release date of Daring to Dream rapidly approaches, please stay tuned for information on upcoming launch events, including book signings and more!