ABWA Rochester Charter Chapter
Rochester, MN 55903
Click here to go to the site – www.abwa.org
ABWA History
Per ABWA’s website, women have always worked, whether it was in the home or in the business sector. During the height of WWII, women were not only encouraged to enter the workforce, they were deluged with propaganda to join the workforce because it was their patriotic duty. When the war was over, many women lost their jobs, and were reminded that their first responsibility was to their home and their family.
On Septeber 22, 1949, Shirley Cupp, Irma Beisel, Frances Stuckey and Mr. Hilary Bufton Jr. met in a coffee shop in downtown Kansas City to incorporate the American Business Women’s Association at a time when it was considered socially unacceptable for women to pursue a full-time career, have a girls night out or even join an association.
A statement made by Mr. Bufton in the early 50s summarizes ABWA’s impact on societal norms: “in many ways, the first generation of ABWA members were the breaking tradition … Without even knowing it, I guess they were paving the way for today’s women.”
We are still a relevant organization for all working women, offering online learning, and networking. We have a high proportion of women business owners, many who got their start through ABWA, learning skills and monitoring from other women and gaining the confidence to take that next step. There is still work to be done. Breaking barriers for women and on behalf of women is nothing new in ABWA. We’ve been doing so since 1949!
Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund
The Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund (SBMEF) has been assisting women to succeed in higher education ever since its inception in 1953. Today it is considered one of the most highly respected grant and scholarship programs for women.
SBMEF assists women who are pursuing advanced educational goals to achieve both business and professional success to become role models, mentors, and leaders for the future. Since it was established in 1953, the fund’s Board of Trustees has awarded close to $18 million in scholarships to more than 18,000 women thanks to the generous contributions of ABWA members.
To learn more about each scholarship opportunities, visit the SBMEF website at https://sbmef.org.
ABWA Proud Code of Conduct
As an ABWA member, I will serve as a goodwill Ambassador for the American Business Women’s Association.
As an ABWA member, I will adhere to the Association’s Bylaws and comply with the Association’s Brand Guidelines.
As an ABWA member, I will not use my personal power or influence to advance my own business or personal interests.
As an ABWA member, I will not allow my actions, personal beliefs or convictions to alienate sponsors, members or prospective members at any level of the ABWA organization (local, regional or national).
As an ABWA member, I will always treat members, the ABWA National Team, guests, speakers, vendors and sponsors with dignity and respect.
