Installation Message

Wow! What a historic moment!

I am honored, humbled and proud to stand before you as the 1st woman Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

This title didn’t happen over night or by myself. It has been a journey with the support of many people. I would like to thank my Brothers and Sisters from Caledonia Lodge #299, Canfield Lodge #155, the Executive Board and numerous members from the other Lodges and Branches.

I would like to thank some individuals that mentored me: Bob Henderson, Chuck Lusk, Paul McAfee and Marion F. Owens, Jr. Thanks to my family for their support and last but surely not least, the person that got me into this from the beginning, my best friend, partner, and husband Paul.

To my elected, appointed officers, and District Deputy Grand Masters: I thank you for all you have done and will do for Odd Fellowship. I have a challenge coin for each of you and I challenge you to step forward and be the best version of yourself as you fulfill your respective obligations.

It is indeed a privilege to be elected as Grand Master. My program is:

Motto:             Stepping Forward Together

Scriptures:       "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of   these is love."  1 Corinthians 13:13

“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

Colors:             Purple and Blue

Flower:            Carnation which symbolizes love, fascination, and distinction

Project:            Youth Pilgrimage of the Grand Lodge of Ohio

My goal is to visit each of our Ohio Odd Fellow Lodges and I challenge each Lodge to find ways to increase their membership. I promise to give you my best work, my modest pride, my earnest faith and my deepest loyalty. I ask that you join me in stepping forward together. Together we will strengthen our links of friendship, love and truth and make this a great year to be an Odd Fellow.

As the 1st woman Grand Master of the jurisdiction of Ohio I will continue to build on the foundation and principles of my Brothers and Sisters that have gone before me. When my term is complete, I hope you can look back and say that I left it better than when I started.  

I am looking forward to working with you, President Judy Ogden, and the Rebekahs and hope you have a great and successful year.