Altrusa International of Tucson Annual Installation Luncheon Welcoming New Officers for 2025–2026

Posted on: June 1, 2025 Posted by: Altrusa Tucson Chapter Comments: 0

Altrusa International of Tucson Annual Installation Luncheon Welcoming New Officers for 2025–2026

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Altrusa International of Tucson gathered for its annual luncheon to celebrate another year of service and to install its newly elected leadership. The elegant event was graciously hosted by Gail Dent, whose hospitality and warm spirit set the tone for an afternoon of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to Altrusa’s mission.

Elda Lopez, President
Elda Lopez, President

Elda Lopez was officially installed as President for the 2025–2026 club year, along with a dedicated team of officers, directors, and Foundation trustees. Surrounded by fellow members, supporters, and friends, the group looked back on a year of service and forward to new goals for the year ahead.

 

2025–2026 Elected Officers and Board Members

  • President: Elda Lopez
  • President Elect: Sheila Hugunin
  • Vice President: Elaine Wilder
  • Treasurer: Ann Banwell
  • Recording Secretary: Gwen Gallegos
  • Corresponding Secretary: Marcia Lucas
  • Directors 2024–2026: Cindy Mansfield and Elsa Nelson
  • Directors 2025–2027: Ella Gomez and Pat Young
  • Immediate Past President: Bonnie McPherson

Altrusa Foundation Trustees

  • 2025–2028: Gail Gurney, Cindy Mansfield, Elsa Nelson
  • 2024–2027: Barbara Arissa, Marcia Lucas, Bonnie McPherson
  • 2023–2026: Ann Banwell, Sheila Hugunin, Adrienne Kleiboemer

Nominating Committee

  • Ann Banwell, Sharon Reilly-Dye, Adrienne Kleiboemer, Elda Lopez, Bonnie McPherson

Continuing a Legacy of Service

Altrusa International of Tucson is a volunteer-led, service-focused nonprofit that promotes literacy, education, and community engagement. Founded in 1941, the club has a long history of uplifting those in need through hands-on service, fundraising, and collaborative partnerships.

Recent initiatives include:

  • Coordinating and judging the Young Authors Contest, which saw over 100 submissions this year and culminated in a public awards ceremony and a private reception for winners

  • Supporting early literacy by reading to students and donating books and classroom materials at Tully Elementary, Bonillas, and White Elementary

  • Providing ongoing support to the Steve Daru Boys & Girls Club, including serving Thanksgiving meals and participating in literacy enrichment through writing classes, readings, and stocking the free library

  • Stocking Little Free Libraries across Tucson with books collected through donations and book sales

  • Contributing to global efforts like Libraries for the World and Days for Girls, which provide essential resources to underserved communities around the world

  • Providing scholarships for students at the University of Arizona and Pima Community College

This year’s club leadership brings both continuity and new energy to Altrusa’s mission. With deep roots in the Tucson community and a strong network of dedicated members, Altrusa Tucson continues to prove that service, compassion, and action can change lives.

Congratulations to all the newly installed officers and trustees—and thank you to all Altrusans who give their time, talents, and hearts to make our community stronger.