Previous Story
Soroptimist International-NMI awards $1K grant
Leah Murphy cries tears of joy as Soroptimist International of Northern Mariana Islands president Jill Arenovski hands over a $1,000 check to her for winning the group?s Women?s Opportunity Award. (Jayson Camacho)
Leah Murphy became teary-eyed as Soroptimist International of Northern Mariana Islands president Jill Arenovski handed a $1,000 check to her last Friday at the 360 Restaurant.
The award was part of the group’s Women’s Opportunity Award for the 2013-2014 and judging was conducted by non-Soroptimists in accordance with criteria set by Soroptimist International of the Americas. A total of four applied for the award.
Murphy, who came to the award with her daughter, told Saipan Tribune that she was both happy and surprised to have garnered the award.
After receiving the check, Murphy said, “The money will be saved and spent wisely.” She also said that she would immediately celebrate with a cookie party.
According to Arenovski the money is Murphy’s to spend in any way she sees appropriate.
“It is intended to ease her financial burden so that she can finish her education and provide a better future for herself and her children,” she said.
Murphy and the three others who vied for the award all met the criteria—they’re women, currently attending college, and are the financial head of their household.
It was the first award ceremony by the club and Arenovski said it will become an annual event.
Club members, applicants, and other women from the island community attended the celebration.
A raffle drawing for one lucky winner of a hot pink Coach bag up for grabs was also held with Murphy’s daughter pulling out the lucky ticket and Arenovski announcing the winner.
Arenovski said Soroptimist International-NMI is pleased to grant the award and club members were delighted to meet two additional applicants at the event.
“It was wonderful to meet three of the applicants and to let them know how amazing they are! Each one is a wonderful example of strength and determination,” Arenovski said.
For more information on the club, call 287-9395 or email sinorthernmarianaislands@soroptimist.net.
