The 18 women honored for their contributions to the community include, from left, Jane Campbell, Randi Clemens, Kathy Daust, Reiko Sato Donnellan, Chris Gauthier, Tara Gluski (in memorium), Janet Harry, Lynn Johnson, Paulette Lindbergh, Debra Lucas, Sue Madden, Joan Nystrom, Carole Pence, Anna Rink, Tia Rodda, Jenna Smith, Phyllis Michael Wong and Ruth Ziel. (Photo collage courtesy of Zonta)

MARQUETTE – Zonta Club of Marquette celebrated its annual “Honor a Woman” event on May 15 to a sold-out crowd at Barrel + Beam. At the event, 18 local women were recognized for their contributions to the community.

Northern Michigan University (NMU) served as the Headliner Sponsor for the event, with NMU President Brock Tessman and First Lady Kristin Tessman in attendance. Zonta President Joan Nystrom welcomed attendees and introduced Elizabeth Peterson of 906 Adventure Team, who served as the evening’s emcee.

Kristin Tessman introduced the guest speaker, author Phyllis Michael Wong. Wong, who penned “We Kept our Towns Going: The Gossard Girls of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula,” shared compelling stories of the Gossard Girls, accompanied by a slideshow illustrating their work environment.

The program continued with recognition of 18 nominated women, representing a diverse group who have demonstrated inspiration, mentorship, volunteerism, support for those in need, kindness, compassion, strength, leadership, and friendship. The honorees included a special tribute to the Gossard girls and Phyllis Wong.

Each honored woman’s picture and narrative were displayed as they were called forward to receive a yellow rose and certificate from Zonta.

The event featured beautiful centerpieces donated by Forsberg Flowers. Additional sponsors included Eagle Mine, Upper Peninsula Health Plan, Incredible Bank, Range Bank, Nicolet Bank, AHP CPA’s and Advisors, Kara Applekamp State Farm, Embers Credit Union, Prime Specialty Contracting, Marquette GMC, First Bank, Upper Peninsula Power Company, Vango’s and Great Northern Title and Abstract.

Zonta Club of Marquette Area, is one of over 1,200 clubs of Zonta International, a worldwide service organization. Zontians volunteer their time, talents and energy to local and international service projects that are designed to build a better world for women and girls. https://zonta15.org/find-a-club-near-you/marquette-area/