Women for Madison hosts blooms and brunch

On Saturday, Sept. 23 Women for Madison supporters and friends gathered to enjoy brunch, beverages and blooms in Leeolou Alumni Center’s sunny Great Room. The event was open to anyone with an interest in JMU and amateur floral arranging. Women across the generations met, talked, sipped, laughed and designed their own take-home bouquets. 

A colorful cut flower buffet was provided by Harmony Harvest Farms, a local woman- and family-owned business with ties to JMU. 

Harmony Harvest Farm is owned and operated by sisters Jessica Hall (above, center) and Stephanie Duncan, and their mom, Chris Auville (’93, ’97M). The farm is a Certified American Grown farm, growing nearly 400 varieties across 100 different types of flower, including heirloom chrysanthemums.

After enjoying brunch, guests were invited to assemble their own bouquets, carefully selecting from a variety of freshly-cut flowers and greenery.

Long-time friends Linda Elliott (’00) and Kathy Moran (’87M), right, enjoyed the opportunity to catch up. Linda is a former director of JMU Donor Relations, and Kathy is a generous supporter of the JMU Forbes Center and serves on the Women for Madison Executive Advisory Council.

Generations of Dukes come together as LaRhonda Horton (’08) chats with Sandra “Dutie” Dutemple (’62, ’67M) during brunch. 

Every guest left the Women for Madison event having made a beautiful, custom bouquet and at least one new connection. On Sunday, Oct. 29, Women for Madison will host Coffee and Conversations at the Leeolou Alumni Center during Homecoming Weekend.