About DAWN
Our History
In May 1982, inspired by Mary Scott Welch’s book Networking: The Great New Way for Women to Get Ahead, Charlotte Hanks, Chris Neeley, and Mickey Robertson invited a small group of women in Decatur, Illinois, to brainstorm about organizing a local networking group. In August 1982, DAWN filed Articles of Incorporation with the State of Illinois, and just two months later, twenty five charter members pooled their resources to fly Alina Novak (a networking pioneer mentioned in Mary Scott Welsh’s book) in from New York City. She spoke at an informational meeting with 200 women in attendance. Ms. Novak considered networking the “next stage in the women’s movement” and many responded. One year later, in October 1983, the organization had grown from 25 to 160. An article appeared about DAWN in the Decatur Herald and Review with the headline, “DAWN Shines.” More than 30 years later, DAWN continues to shine by following the vision of the charter members-providing networking opportunities for women in the Decatur area. DAWN is proud to have encouraged hundreds of women in their career and life journeys.
Our Mission
DAWN's Mission is to use networking for the development and promotion of women.
Our Purpose
to provide professional development and community awareness
to promote communication and networking among women
to encourage women to develop their leadership skills and talents
to enrich the lives of members by sharing resources
to support members in their professional and personal pursuits and goals
to cultivate the spirit of fellowship among members and other community women
to continually seek new members to expand our networks
Our Distinct Advantage!
diverse membership
commitment to the further development of women in our community
no service or volunteer hours required
no organizational business conducted at monthly meetings
