Installation Day, May 12, 2025

Installation Day was a lovely ceremony to install new officers and chairs for GFWC Ossoli Circle.  The Day began with a processional of officers where they took their respective places on the platform.  Installation Chair Nancy Christmas welcomed the audience and gave the Invocation.  Nancy was joined by Joyce Condry, Parliamentarian Advisor and the Installing Officer.  Each category of Chairs was installed followed by the installation of officers. 

Once President Coley was installed, she received the President’s gavel, the keys to the Clubhouse, the Black Book of Ossoli Knowledge plus the President’s Pin.  There is a wonderful tradition in Ossoli that before the new president is given the President’s Pin, all Past Presidents in attendance, each touch the pin to ensure their good wishes for the new president.  President Coley thanked and recognized all the work and leadership President Hillis had provided Ossoli.  Sherry was presented with and presented her with a STAR award plaque, engraved with the years of her Presidency along with the Ossoli logo. Sherry Hillis was also given a photo book which highlighted the year of her presidency. Lastly, the appointed chairs were installed.  Jan thanked the appointed chairs and welcomed all installed officers and chairs.   Vice president Linda Williams was presented a book of the history of Ossoli Circle.  Pamela Schwartz presented two copies of the yearbook, one for the President and the second was presented to Nancy Christmas as the 2025-2026 Yearbook was dedicated to her. 

 The President’s speech was delivered, and she announced her theme. “Together we are a guiding light, symbolized by a lighthouse.  Friends of the Smokies is the President’s Project.  Linda Williams lead the members in reading the “Collect”.  Words of thanks were expressed to Janet Oakes, Courtsey Chair, Tonya Whittle, Tamme Beal, and Joy Kelly for decorations, and Kim Overman and her committee for the wonderful reception.  The meeting was adjourned  for the reception.