REHOBOTH BEACH — The Coastal-Georgetown branch of the American Association of University Women, a 141-year-old national organization, celebrated its 65th year with a luncheon at Big Fish Grill on Sept. 22.

At the event, the group honored women who have been members for 20 years or more and recognized its Member of the Year.

Branch president Sharon Stein presented certificates of honor to Penny Deiner (52 years), Linda Fischer (50), Nadine Noble (48), Karen Allen (38), Mary Friedlander (35), Laura Troxell (30), Dawn Lekites (28) and Virginia Sullivan (22). Not present were Ann Alexander (45), Lucille Payne (28) and Lane Stone (20).

Ms. Deiner, the longest-tenured member, was working on her Ph.D. dissertation at Penn State when she applied for a national AAUW fellowship in 1971. Almost immediately, she joined the local entity as a lifetime member and has been returning the favor of helping girls and women pay for their education with scholarships ever since.

She was president of the branch for four years and Delaware state president for another four. She is currently the state public policy chairperson, coordinating activities with other organizations, such as the League of Women Voters. Ms. Deiner is also an active proponent of legislation aimed at helping transgender and nonbinary student-athletes, as well as the area of women’s health.

Cristi Gillean, state president and past president of the Coastal-Georgetown branch, gave a presentation highlighting its history.

“Though times have changed,” she said, “our mission continues, as we advocate for education, equity and public policy that reflects social justice.”

Ms. Stein presented roses to recent past presidents: Ms. Fischer, Ms. Sullivan, Marty Johnson, Betsy Baumeister, Ms. Deiner, Kathleen Thompson and Ms. Gillean. Not present were Linda Thetford and Sheri Borrin.

Carolyn Newcott, communications director of the branch, was named Member of the Year for her outstanding dedication to the mission of reaching “gender equality in education, economic security and leadership.”

Barb Shamp, scholarship chairperson and board member, stated that, during her two terms as communications director, Ms. Newcott’s technical leadership — particularly during the pandemic — was invaluable. Last year, Ms. Newcott piloted the program to put the branch’s scholarship application online. For her service, she was presented an engraved vase of daisies — symbolic of the Member of the Year’s traditional name, “The Daisy Award.”

The Coastal-Georgetown branch of the American Association of University Women welcomes new members. For information, email membership vice president Pat Sheehy at pqsheehy@comcast.net.