In response to feedback on the 5-Star recognition program from more than 400 branch and state leaders, AAUW is launching the new 21^st Century Branch Recognition Program. This initiative will replace the 5-Star program beginning in 2001-02.

AAUW leaders across the country told us that the recognition program should:
• Increase recognition opportunities for branches
• Recognize states for their role in supporting branch efforts
• Provide a framework for branch and state planning efforts by outlining goals in priority areas
• Reward different levels of achievement/milestones that indicate progress for a particular branch
• Promote AAUW priorities while allowing greater flexibility in the focus of branch action
• Simplify the application process

Branches will be recognized for implementing one or more projects each year that result in progress in any or all of the following priority areas for AAUW.
• Membership growth
• Development of new initiatives
• Member action resulting in impact on AAUW priority issue(s)
• Community outreach to diverse populations
• Leadership development
• Technology use
• External visibility

If a branch chooses to do so, it can be recognized for just one project or event that incorporate each of these priorities. Branches will receive points for their achievements in any of these areas, and will also garner points for attaining Foundation and Legal Advocacy Fund fundraising goals. Every branch that submits an application (which will be in narrative form, rather than requiring branches to complete an application) will be recognized through this program. Depending on the number of areas a branch chooses to focus on and the number of points it receives, the branch will be designated for recognition at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum level.

States will be recognized for their role in supporting and promoting branch achievements in the -priority areas identified above, as well as meeting the Foundation and LAF fundraising goals for the state level. In September, states that wish to participate in the recognition program will send to the Association a brief overview of the priority areas they will focus on in providing support to branches, of their specific goals related to each focus area, and of anticipated needs for resources and technical support from Association leaders and staff. In April, states will submit a narrative describing the results of their efforts to support branches, along with information regarding the results of their fundraising for the Foundation and Legal Advocacy Fund. All states that want to be part of this program will be recognized for their efforts to help branches be recognized in the 21^st Century Branch Recognition Program.

Detailed recognition program information will be available at the Austin Convention and launched on AAUW's website July 1. Program materials will provide action strategies and sample goals related to each of the AAUW priority areas so that branches can use the program materials as a strategic planning tool.

Updated 23-Apr-01
From information made available at AAUW-NC Convention
Back to http://rtpnet.org/aauw