The Peterborough Woman’s Club (PWC) recently gathered at Beepa & Lulu’s Restaurant for its 126th annual meeting for fellowship, scholarship presentations and the installation of the 2023-2024 board. Each year the club awards three scholarships to females in the community.

The Virginia Peterson Memorial Girl Scout Campership, given in memory of past PWC member Virginia Peterson, who was the oldest Girl Scout in New Hampshire, was awarded to Sophie Wilsher. The scholarship pays for Sophie to attend Girl Scout camp this summer. Sophie thanked the group, showing excitement for her plans to make new friends, learn about camping, animals and more at her first sleepaway camp.

The Maciocci Scholarship was awarded to Eva McCullough. McCullough graduated from ConVal High School this year and plans to go to Northeastern University in the fall. The Maciocci Scholarship is awarded to a high school senior woman who has demonstrated outstanding service to her school and greater community. McCullough spoke about how important it is to give back to others and take the time to talk and learn about people from all different backgrounds. Spending time volunteering with Farmsteads of New England in the summer has been one of her most-meaningful experiences.

The Janet Achille Scholarship, given in memory of longtime PWC member Janet Achille, is awarded to a woman age 21 or older residing in the ConVal district who plans to obtain educational credentials or skills so she may return to work or further or change her career. This year’s award went to Alexandra Allen-Byam. Allen-Byam plans to become a funeral director, a profession she said was like a “coming home” when she realized this is how she could make a difference. She explained the industry is now 70% woman-run and is evolving to include a caring support system for families long after funeral services have ended, an area she looks forward to nurturing. This scholarship is made possible by the Achille family.

The evening concluded by thanking outgoing President Barbara Goodwin and installing new co-presidents, Terri Hummel and Jackie Kremer.

“Each one of you makes a difference in this community,” Goodwin stated. “I am humbled to be a part of this amazing group of women.”

The Peterborough Woman’s Club is a nonprofit organization started in 1897 that connects, educates and empowers women of all ages and backgrounds to actively participate in their community through mentoring, networking and volunteering. Started in Peterborough, the PWC is comprised of members residing in all towns of the ConVal School District. The club encourages and welcomes new members. To become a member, go to peterbroughwomansclub.org or email info@peterbroughwomansclub.org.