BRATTLEBORO — Patricia Neer was recognized for her significant contributions to the American Association of University Women (AAUW) at the recent annual meeting of its Brattleboro branch.
Neer was cited as a woman of distinction for her volunteer work with the branch, especially during the annual book sale that raises funds for scholarships for local women. She is also active locally with Centre Congregational Church on its Mission and Service Committee, delivering food donated by church members to the Brattleboro Drop-in Center weekly.
A native of Englewood, N.J., Neer attended Keuka College for two years before enrolling in the Columbia University School of Nursing, where she earned a bachelor's degree and, later, a master's degree in public health.
After working and living in New York and New Jersey, Neer moved to Brattleboro to be closer to her twin daughters, Sydney and Charlotte. Now in her 90th year, she still enjoys a game of golf and attending local events.
The annual meeting also included a presentation by Kerry Secrest, founder of Watershed Coaching and a member of the Vermont Commission on Women, who spoke about challenges women leaders face in the workplace when the rules of friendship come up against the need to be the boss.
She cited the negative correlation between success and “likeability” as a hurdle. She said women need to celebrate and acknowledge one another's successes and thank one another for helping.
Plans were announced for the annual AAUW book sale to be held at Centre Congregational Church on Aug. 6, 7, and 8. A pre-sale book drop-off location and date are being planned.