This is a printer friendly version of an article from www.thedailytimes.com
To print this article open the file menu and choose Print.
Article published Apr 6, 2008 Thompson receives 2008 Crystal Award
By Linda Braden Albert of The Daily Times Staff
Patricia Sparks Thompson, founder and president of the Joshua Resource Center in Maryville, was named the winner of the American Association of University Women's 2008 Crystal Award on March 31 during a reception at the Blount County Public Library. She was one of three finalists, including Robin Devereaux, nominated by her students at Dream Street Infusion Dancers, and Sharon Hannum, community volunteer and founder of a mentoring program through her church, St. Paul AME Zion.
Thompson founded Joshua Resource Center four years ago as a safe haven where women escaping difficult situations -- including domestic violence and abuse -- can find unconditional acceptance as they are given the tools they need to change their lives. The multi-faceted, faith-based program, appropriately called New Beginnings, includes educational, life-management and work skills training components, which increase clients' employment income opportunities.
The winner was chosen by a judging panel of AAUW Tennessee state officers, none of whom live in Blount County. They were given the applications without identification attached.
Thompson said, "Being selected as the 2008 Crystal Award winner is such an honor and has touched me in a very special way. I believe this recognition will help others understand the win-win for all of us when we believe in and actively help women who seek self-sufficiency. To empower a woman is to empower her children, her community and beyond. What a wonderful gift the women of American Association of University Women have given through their time, resources and heart to make the Crystal Award possible."
Surprise proclamation
Claudia Brady, 2005 AAUW Crystal Award recipient, presented the award to Thompson. In addition, a proclamation in Thompson's honor was presented to her from the State of Tennessee House of Representatives. Speaker of the House Jimmy Naifeh wrote: "... At the request of and in conjunction with Representative Doug Overbey, (I) do hereby proclaim that we recognize and honor Patricia Thompson for her unflagging commitment to serving her community, congratulate her for winning the 2008 American Association of University Women Crystal Award, and wish her every continued success in her future endeavors."
The proclamation described Thompson as a public-spirited citizen of the highest order and an exceptional asset to the community. "Patricia Thompson is an extremely giving person who often reaches out with compassion to people whom life has treated unkindly, and she epitomizes the ideal of the consummate professional, dedicated public servant and reliable friend and neighbor. ... "
Inspirational women
The annual Crystal Award recognizes a person, male or female, who works for the betterment of women and girls in Blount County. The theme for the 2008 award was "Who Inspired You?" Bonnie Hinds, with Ann Meyer, Valerie Segar Spence and Christy Walsh highlighted the Crystal Award theme with reflections on the people who have inspired them. Educators, government employees, business and organization leaders and the community-at-large were invited to nominate individuals who inspired them because of their efforts on behalf of women and girls. Supporters of AAUW honored friends and relatives who inspired them by listing their names and accomplishments in the event program.
Camille Crumpton, Maryville High School harpist, provided music while guests enjoyed refreshments catered by Lisa Williams of Grounded.
Charlotte Crawford, president of the AAUW Maryville Branch, said, "Each of the 2008 finalists has a story of struggle behind her achievements and contributions. They provide inspiration for all who work to better the lives of women in Blount County and Tennessee."
For more information on AAUW, contact Crawford at 671-9415 or visit the Web site at www.discoveret.org/aauwmvil/