Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do the initials AAUW mean?
American Association of University Women Mission>>
2. What are the requirements for membership in Poughkeepsie AAUW, Inc.
A graduate holding an associate or equivalent, baccalaureate, or higher degree from a qualified educational institution or a foreign degree acceptable as a basis for admission by graduate schools at qualified universities of the United States shall be is eligible to receive admission to AAUW membership; such membership shall be granted upon payment of AAUW dues. How to Join>>
3. What is an Interest Group?
Small groups of AAUW members meet who share a common interest. Groups that currently exist have interest in reading; playing bridge, Mah Jongg or golf; cooking or dining out; creating crafts or art; touring, walking or hiking, and attending movies. Members may attend as many interest groups as they like. Non members may attend two meeting but must join Poughkeepsie Branch AAUW, Inc. to continue participation after these two meetings. Interest Groups>>
4. Who can attend a Poughkeepsie Branch AAUW, Inc. Monthly Membership Meeting?
All Monthly Membership Meetings are open to the public. Some require a fee for a meal served or entertainment provided. Membership Meetings>>
5. What are Community Outreach Programs? How can I get involved?
The Poughkeepsie Branch sponsors a number of outreach programs which further our mission and help meet community needs. They focus on areas such as health care, early literacy, domestic violence, equity for women globally, diversity, and educational opportunities for women and girls. Some sponsor special programs, such as a conference or seminar, and others provide ongoing projects throughout the year. Information on the outreach programs is available in the monthly newsletter, The Branch, at the Open House each fall, and on the website (Select Programs/Community Outreach). Any member is welcome to contact the chairperson and join the committee.
6. What scholarships and fellowships do we currently support?
The Educational Opportunities Fund ( EOF) is the scholarship and fellowship arm of AAUW. Fellowships include American and International Fellows and Selected Professionals. Grant programs include career development and community action grants. The EOF is the largest fellowship fund in the United States and provides approximately $3 million in grants each year. EOF>>
In addition, the Poughkeepsie Branch supports scholarships for non-traditional students graduating from Dutchess Community College. DCC Scholarship>>
7. What is LAF?
The Legal Advocacy Fund (LAF) provides financial and staff resource support for litigants in sexual discrimination cases. The focus is both on college campuses and the workplace. The LAF has provided significant support to those whose cases have the potential to affect all women. LAF>>
8. Are donations to the Poughkeepsie Branch AAUW, Inc. tax deductible?
Poughkeepsie Branch AAUW, Inc. is a 501(C)(3) organization. All donations to AAUW and the scholarship or fellowship funds are tax deductible. Donations for special fundraising events, such as the Authors’ Writers’ Tea, are deductible to the extent that the donation exceeds the fair market value of goods and services received.
9. The national AAUW supports a great deal of research and lobbies for women’s issues. Where can I find this information?
The Association website provides a great deal of information about research, publications and initiatives. The Lobby Corps regularly meets with legislators and has been instrumental in the passage of key legislation in recent years. Current research focuses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), the gender pay gap, and girls’ academic achievement. Numerous publications, such as the AAUW Outlook, LAF Update, and position papers provide up to date information on current projects. National AAUW>>
10. What events are included on the Poughkeepsie AAUW, Inc. calendar? Whom do I contact to have an event included?
Any events sponsored or co-sponsored by AAUW will be included on the calendar. For additions or corrections to the calendar notify the Newsletter Editor at 845/635-8612 or