The Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. (TLOD) held the 43rd Area VI Leadership Conference on Feb. 22-25, at the Westin LAX Hotel in Los Angeles. National Area VI Director Yolande R. Bankston led the program. The theme was “Area VI in Action…Navigating Our Way Forward Toward Continuity of Service.”
The conference was hosted by the Inglewood Chapter where Cheryl Franklin is the president and Betty Edwards and Juanita Dawson serve as co-chairs. Also, National President and CEO Eddie Lee Marsh and Immediate Past National President and CEO Sharon J. Beard were in attendance.
Activities at the conference opened with a memorial service in remembrance of members who passed away, induction of 22 new Top Ladies, a panel discussion for new members, and Area Director’s Reception. Friday’s agenda included a business session and workshops along with a Literacy Café where Top Teens answered questions related to the book, “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. Also, the Inglewood Chapter hosted an evening program celebrating African American heritage.
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On Saturday, the TLOD 50th Anniversary/Awards Luncheon was held, which recognized Top Ladies and Top Teens, and the Black and White Ball/Presentation Gala took place where newly inducted ladies and Top Teens were acknowledged. Also, Attorney Benjamin Crump shared remarks.
The conference concluded with a Gospel Fest/Brunch saluting Historically Black Colleges and Universities, supporting the United Negro College Fund, and presenting TLOD’s newest initiative, “Project Connect,” which provides book scholarships to former Top Teens.
Leadership seminars included presentations by National Area II Director Hope Ruffin and National Recording Secretary Regina Dickson. National 1st Vice President Jackquline Wilcher and National 2nd Vice President Kendra Gillespie conducted the town hall forum.
Top Ladies of Distinction is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of youths and adults through national programs, projects, and partners. TLOD focus areas are status of women, senior citizens, community beautification and community partnership. National Partnerships include the National Council of Negro Women, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, United Negro College Fund, March of Dimes, St. Jude, Literacy, and Sickle Cell Awareness. Recently, TLOD connected with the American Red Cross to increase the blood supply to those suffering from sickle cell disease through community blood drives.
To learn more, visit www.tlodinc.org.
