Women in History celebration

Six Eunice African American women were honored during the National Association of University Women, Eunice Branch’s Women in History Program Sunday.

The theme of the program was “Generations of Women Moving History Forward...Inspiring Hope and Possibilities.”

The six honored for achievements in education, religion, medical services, social services and business included:

Mathilda Johnwell (business), owner and past operator of Mathilda’s Kitchen. She retired in December. She is married to Morris Johnwell and has three daughters.

Ranolviaun Landry (eduction), an Instructional Specialist for St. Landry Parish Schools. She taught English at Eunice Jr. High School for many years. She received a national board of certification of professional teaching standards in 2004.

Joyce Neville (medical), an RN and chief nursing officer at Acadian Medical Center. She is currently a senior at LSUE, pursuing her BS in Health Management. She is married to Elijah and has four children.

Phill M. Edwards, (religious services), she is a lawyer employed with Acadian Legal Services. She is married to the Rev. James Edwards and has one daughter and one grandchild.

Delores R. Johnson, (Social Services), employed at the Acadia Parish Medicaid Office and has three children and two grandchildren.

Marguerite Fruge-Simpson (Government), first black councilwoman for the city of Eunice. Simpson was elected in 2006. She has one daughter and one granddaughter.

Emcee for the program was Maryland Graham, founder of the branch and program chairperson, who was also named the branch’s woman of the year.

Special guest speaker was Bonnie Stelly, an inspirational public speaker from Opelousas.

Stelly talked about women and their roles in the community, home and church in past and present times.

She said to the women, “It’s time to rise up, step up... and go forward, and follow your dreams, and to do something great and positive for your yourself, your family, city and our country.”

Other special presentations and recognitions went to Nicole Rose, NAUW Single Parent of the Year.

Jalyn Frank, Miss NAUW 2006-’08, recited the pledge and was given a special gift by the NAUW officers.

Philomena Bernard is president of the NAUW branch.