June 2015

The Junior League of Houston, Inc., an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers, recently announced its 2015 – 2016 Executive Committee and revealed the theme for the year, “Heart of a Champion.” The newly selected leaders bring a great deal of experience to the organization.

Incoming Executive Committee of the Junior League of Houston:

• President: Mary Margaret “Mimi” Fraser Foerster
• President-Elect: Shannon Beirne Wiesedeppe
• Community Vice President: Abigail Swalick Khatiblou
• Development Vice President: Katie Montgomery Mears
• Financial Vice President: Jennifer LeGrand Howard
• Membership Vice President: Jennifer Scheifley Roberts
• Recording Secretary: Mary Catherine Sharman Sears

The gavel was officially passed on Sunday, May 31, as the Junior League of Houston turned over its executive leadership team and Board of Directors during The President’s Tea, which was held at the West University home of 2011 – 2012 League President, Perry Ann Davis Reed. Members celebrated a successful 2014 – 2015 year, during which the Junior League of Houston celebrated its 90th anniversary and contributed over $2 million in volunteer time and direct financial support to the Houston community. Outgoing President Elizabeth Graves Love accepted an antique, hand-engraved sterling silver tray generously donated by Tenenbaum & Co. as a token of appreciation and support for her rock solid leadership over the past year.

Newly minted President Mary Margaret “Mimi” Fraser Foerster introduced her theme for the year, “Heart of a Champion,” as a representation of the Junior League’s legacy for education and empowerment. This year, Junior League volunteers will serve as champions of change in the community, contributing more than 65,000 hours of service through 38 community projects, including partnerships with Texas Children’s Hospital, Child Advocates, Inc., Bo’s Place, Children’s Museum of Houston, Houston Food Bank and Dress for Success Houston. The Junior League also offers one of the only free CPR certification courses in the city.

“After celebrating the League’s 90th anniversary, it is fitting to appreciate the members who freely give their time and energy back to the Houston community. These women embody the heart of a champion,” said President Mimi Foerster. “Each new committee member provides diverse expertise that will augment the League’s efforts to better Houston and our members during the process.”