The Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics is pleased to recognize the accomplishments and activities of its faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters:
Dianne Bystrom, Catt Center director, is one of 33 political experts nationwide serving as “coaches” for USA TODAY’s 2016 GOP Power Rankings. Inspired by college football’s Amway Coaches Poll published by USA TODAY Sports, the GOP Power Rankings rely on a diverse group of analysts, activists and other experts to size up the Republican presidential field each week. The power rankings debuted on Sept. 1. Other coaches include former GOP presidential candidate Herman Cain; Maria Cardona, Democratic strategist and CNN commentator; and Iowans Doug Gross, attorney and former GOP gubernatorial candidate; O. Kay Henderson, news director of Radio Iowa; and Craig Robinson, founder and editor of TheIowaRepublican.com.
Kristine Perkins, public relations/student programs coordinator for the Catt Center, was selected to participate in Leadership Ames XXIX. Leadership Ames is facilitated by the Ames Chamber of Commerce and is designed to develop informed, involved and concerned community leaders in the Ames area. Beginning in September 2015 and ending in May 2016, Leadership Ames gives both experienced and developing leaders a broader view of civic leadership responsibilities and opportunities through direct contact with a wide spectrum of institutions and people who shape the Ames community. Perkins also spoke to the Pella Professional and Business Women’s Forum in Pella, Iowa, on Sept. 10 about how they can get more involved in their community and the status of women in politics around the state.
Laura Wentworth, ISU political science alumna and center public relations and events planning intern from 2011-2013, was one of 29 attorneys and law students who assisted in putting together the 11th edition of the Iowa Women and the Law publication. This publication gives an overview of some of the areas of law that affect women, such as: citizenship and voting rights, credit and finance, criminal law, domestic violence, education, employment, housing, marriage and divorce, parental responsibility/children and adoption, privacy issues, public assistance, sexual assault, small business and the law, stalking, and wills and probates. Wentworth is currently studying at Drake University Law School and will graduate in 2016.