Branch Meetings and Programs
Interested in AAUW but not a member? Come share a meal with us during a monthly meeting and see what you’re missing! Guests may come for the program only at no charge.
Saturday, February 7, 2026 Branch Meeting
Social starts at 8:45 am, Brunch at 9:00 am, Program at 10:15 am
Brunch is $25. Student members $15. Attending the program only is free.
University of Redlands, Casa Loma Room, 1173 E. Brockton Ave., Redlands, CA.
Reservations: Reservations are now being made online until January 25, 2026 at https://forms.office.com/r/KcekjZMaLn. After Jan 25, RSVPs are accepted on a space availalbe basis only via email or phone. If you have issues with online reservations, please email AAUWrsvp@AAUWRedlands.org or call 909-362-4955.
Program: Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers will speak on the “Role of an Elected School Board Member 101” at the AAUW Redlands branch meeting on February 7, 2026. She is a dynamic and respected leader, currently serving as President of the San Bernardino County Board of Education and President and CEO of the Arrowhead United Way. Previously, she completed two terms as a board member for San Bernardino City Unified School District and continues to spend countless hours working in the community, serving on boards, and is also a commissioner for San Bernardino First 5 Children and Families Commission.
In 2023, she was profiled on PBS SoCal, where she talked about the importance of citizens getting involved in government meetings. Similarly, Dr. Rodgers will discuss public participation in school board meetings, active involvement during public comments, and how to contribute to policy discussions at the meeting. She said, “Whether it’s advocacy or policy making at the school board meeting, the focus should always be on students.”
She is a wife, mother, and lifetime resident of San Bernardino. She holds a bachelor’s degree in behavioral health, a master’s degree in human resource management, and a doctorate in educational leadership. She spent over 20 years in finance management, followed by 14 years as a foster youth mental health community development specialist, before joining Arrowhead United Way.
Almost two decades ago, she created the Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWE), a social, emotional, and academic enrichment program where the mission is to empower young women 12-21 to reach their highest aspirations. To date, YWE has mentored four thousand plus young women and provided scholarships.
Dr. Rodgers is a champion of the people and fights every day to make sure there is equity for all students, parents, staff, and community. She continues to work on educational issues to close the equity gap while providing advocacy to ensure all school sites have wellness centers to address the social, emotional, and mental health needs of everyone.
Future Meetings:
- Saturday, March 7, 2026
- Tuesday, April 7, 2026
- Tuesday, May 5, 2026
- Saturday June 6, 2026
Board Meetings
2nd or 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 PM, both in person and online.
Board meetings are open to any AAUW Redlands Branch Member.
Contact Amy Bisek for online access or other information.