PORT TOWNSEND — In an unprecedented move, the Port Townsend chapter of the American Association of University Women chose two women to honor Saturday with its Woman of Excellence award.
Sue Sidle, a longtime community volunteer, and Anne Schneider, co-founder of Skookum Working Image, accepted their awards from Gay Eisenberger at the AAUW luncheon meeting at the Fort Worden State Park Commons.
“This is an incredible honor and means a lot to share it with Anne, who is an incredible friend,” Sidle said.
Sidle, who has lived in Port Townsend for more than 25 years, spearheaded the effort to build the extension onto Port Townsend’s Carnegie Library which was completed in 1990.
“As a result of her involvement and others, her dream became a reality,” Eisenberger said, quoting from one of the letters of nomination.
Helping the state park
Sidle is also one of the founders of the Friends of Fort Worden, which raises money to enhance the state park.
Schneider, who joined the Port Townsend AAUW in 1993, was honored for her work establishing a clothing bank for women entering or returning to the work force.
Linda Haskell, development director of Olympic Community Action Programs, commended Schneider for her commitment, energy and enthusiasm she exhibited in overcoming challenges and getting the program off the ground.
The program has provided business wardrobes for more than 1,000 women, Haskell said.
“It’s wonderful to be recognized for something you enjoy doing,” Schneider said.