FAU Publishes Book to Honor 100 Women of Distinction

The contributions to FAU by 100 women are celebrated in “Legacymakers: 100 Women of Distinction at Florida Atlantic University.”

From left, Christine E. Lynn; Marleen Forkas; FAU First Lady Carolyn Kelly; Ellie Baldwin; Barbara Schmidt; and Marilyn Weinberg.

By lisa metcalf | 3/30/2016

The contributions to Florida Atlantic University by 100 women are celebrated in a new book, “Legacymakers: 100 Women of Distinction at Florida Atlantic University.” These outstanding individuals were chosen based on the legacies they’ve created that positively influenced the growth of the University over the course of a half-century. The book is available for purchase with proceeds going toward scholarships.

“This book is meant as a small token of thanks, not only to those whose contributions are recounted here, but to all the women who make up the proud and dedicated sisterhood of Florida Atlantic University,” said FAU First Lady Carolyn Kelly. “The intention of this book is to provide an overview of the many ways in which women have built FAU’s reputation for excellence.”

Since FAU opened its doors in the fall of 1964, the role women have played in moving the University’s mission forward has proved vitally important. It continues each day in FAU’s ongoing development as a world-class center of education, research and community service.

“It is a privilege to support a university that has exponentially grown and evolved,” said Barbara Schmidt, FAU benefactor and an honoree in the book. “I am honored to be included in the company of women who have worked hard to serve the students, community, and global research endeavors of Florida Atlantic University.”

Kelly recently hosted the 100 women and debuted the book at a tea party at the Eleanor R. Baldwin House at FAU’s Boca Raton campus.

“The education I received from FAU has served as an invaluable asset to me both personally and professionally,” said Mary Beth McDonald, member of FAU’s Board of Trustees and one of the 100 women highlighted in the book. “I am so honored to be included among these remarkable and inspiring women who never found an obstacle they could not overcome, a challenge they could not master or a difficulty they could not rise above. These women are the essence of the true spirit of Florida Atlantic University.”

The women of “Legacymakers” also will be honored at the FAU Gala on Saturday, April 2, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at FAU Stadium.

To purchase the “Legacymakers: 100 Women of Distinction at Florida Atlantic University” book, visit http://ibidmobile.net/auction/bidgateway.php?lot_id=102149. To purchase tickets for the FAU Gala, visit https://faugala.info/tickets.

-FAU-