The 100 Ladies of Deering is a philanthropic circle of women dedicated to preserving the Deering Estate. Joined in friendship, they work to bring about meaningful change through investments that advance awareness, public engagement, and protect the cultural and natural resources to further Charles Deering’s legacy in South Florida. The 100 Ladies of Deering is governed by the bylaws and works in partnership with the Deering Estate Foundation. For more information visit 100LadiesofDeering.org.
Our Mission
To connect, collaborate and bring about impactful change through our investments in projects that advance awareness, public engagement and the conservation & preservation of the Deering Estate’s cultural and natural resources.
The Originals
Throughout 2012-2013, several ladies who would become known as the “Originals” hammered out different versions of the Mission Statement, the logo, the colors…everything. Their membership and faith in the Philanthropic Circle now known as the 100 Ladies of Deering laid the groundwork for the group today. Members of the Originals were: Patricia Baxter, Liede DeValdivielso, Suzuyo Fox, Lori Haas, Karen Hoffman, Barbara Ludovici, Becky Matkov, Pamela Mullins, Christine Stiphany, Jocelyn Tennille and Jamie Thomas. A category of “Founder” was created to help raise funds. Becoming a Founder was a three year commitment of $5000 a year. Several ladies stepped up to become a Founder. The title was retired in 2016. The Founders were honored at the January 2017 Annual Foundation Board Awards. The Founders honored: Suzuyo Fox, Lori Haas, Karen Hoffman, Barbara Ludovici, Susan McArthur, Sandy McCarthy, Heather O’Brien, Jocelyn Tennille and Marta Weeks-Wulf.
Leadership
The 100 Ladies of Deering select and focus on specific projects, goals and initiatives advancing their mission that the membership is passionate about and go about organizing, strategically planning and acting as a group to pursue their goals with the support of the Deering Estate and Deering Estate Foundation’s staffs.
The leadership within the circle is as follows:
Executive Committee 2019-2021
- President: Nancy Eggland
- Vice President: Elizabeth Battaglia
- Secretary: Nancy Michelson
- Assistant Secretary: Terry Long
- Treasurer: Pam Mullins
- Assistant Treasurer: Ann DeStefanis
- Immediate Past President: Maria McDonald
- Past Presidents: Lieda DeValdivieso, Lori Haas, Suzuyo Fox
Sub-Committees
- Activities & Education: Susan Tilson, Chair
- Archive & Documentation: Judy Parker, Chair
- Coffee Table Book: Barbara Bass, Lori Haas, Nancy Michelson, Chairs
- Furnishing & Design: Maredith Ehrman, Chair
- Holiday Decorating: Ann DeStefanis, Chair
- Marketing & Communications: Elizabeth Battaglia, Chair
- Membership & Hospitality: Suzuyo Fox, Terry Long, Co-Chair
Deering Estate Foundation
The Deering Estate Foundation, established in 1989, is a charitable, 501(c)3 community based organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Deering Estate for this and future generations. The Foundation’s Board of Directors, members and volunteers are made up of a diverse group of business and community leaders who are dedicated advocates of the Estate and active Supporters of education, research, exhibits and collections, environmental conservation and historic preservation.
Our Mission
To raise public awareness, outreach, understanding and the enjoyment of the Deering Estate and to raise funds to support education, research, exhibits and collections, natural conservation and historical restoration and preservation.
Our Vision
The Deering Estate Foundation will be the premiere voice and perpetual partner of the Deering Estate, providing the resources and support necessary to achieve and sustain national recognition as a diverse cultural and educational destination for future generations.
