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2026 Women in STEM District 6 Award Recipient: Dr. Nicole Vander Schaaf

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 23:50:19 GMT

District 6 congratulates Dr. Nicole Vander Schaaf on being the district recipient of the Zonta 2026 Women in STEM award.

Dr. Vander Schaaf has a B.S. degree in Biology and a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology, and is currently an Asst./Associate Professor of Biology at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL.

Her recent research has been in Papua, New Guinea where she was co-leader of the Shalom Project, to advance and obtain HPV testing for underserved women, researching test options that are more affordable so women can get tested and obtain treatment to increase their survival rates. The urgency of this work is clear as Papua has one of the highest rates of cervical cancer in the world, and her research will provide a screening method that is affordable and practical for hospitals with limited resources.

Thank you, Dr. Vander Schaaf and your team, in making a difference for the women and girls in New Guinea and soon, around the world.

'Their Story' Hosted by the Zonta Club of Kankakee

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 03:22:05 GMT

Experience Their Story to understand the real life challenges faced by domestic violence survivors.

Join the Zonta Club of Kankakee for an interactive event and discussion about challenges faced by domestic violence survivors on October 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm at the Grow Center.

Proclamation Recognizing October 24, 2026 as United Nations Day in Illinois

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 22:41:15 GMT

The Governor of Illinois signed a proclamation recognizing United Nations Day in Illinois.

Governor JB Pritzer has signed a proclamation recognizing October 24, 2026 as United Nations Day in Illinois in recognition of the commitment of the United Nations, Zonta International, and the Zonta Club of Kankakee to the advancement of the status of women and girls internationally, nationally, and in the State of Illinois.

Thank you to the Zonta Club of Kankakee for your efforts to support women and girls locally and globally, and for your work to have this day recognized throughout the state of Illinois!

>>Learn more about the Zonta Club of Kankakee

2026 Amelia Earhart Fellow: Lauren Henderson

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:31:54 GMT

Lauren Henderson

District 6

Citizenship: United States

Proposed Program: Astrophysics at University of Notre Dame, USA

Lauren Henderson is a Ph.D. candidate in physics and astronomy at the University of Notre Dame, under the leadership of Dr. Evan Kirby. She received her bachelor’s degree from Calvin University in physics and philosophy. Her current Ph.D. research in galactic archeology focuses on studying old dwarf galaxies in the Local Group, a series of galaxies that includes the Milky Way.

These dwarf galaxies hold important clues as to how the heaviest elements on the periodic table are created. Ms. Henderson uses stellar spectroscopy to measure the composition of ancient stars in these galaxies, helping to understand their galactic evolution and uncover how supernovae and other energetic events produced the heavy elements.

After graduation, Ms. Henderson looks forward to continuing research in the field of galactic archeology, as well as teaching classes in physics and astronomy. She is passionate about increasing the representation of women in her field and has been involved in the Graduate Physics and Astronomy Society leadership at Notre Dame. She has helped organize many outreach events to share physics and astronomy with the South Bend, Indiana community.

Outside of research, Ms. Henderson enjoys rock climbing, backpacking and baking vegan desserts.

2026 Amelia Earhart Fellow: Emma Nicotra

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:27:08 GMT

Emma Nicotra

District 6

Citizenship: United States

Proposed Program: Aeronautics and Astronautics at Purdue University, USA

Emma Nicotra is a Ph.D. candidate in aeronautics and astronautics at Purdue University, specializing in experimental hypersonic aerothermodynamics and plasma-actuated flow control methods. She is a member of the Boeing/AFOSR Mach-6 Quiet Tunnel Lab under Dr. Joseph Jewell, and the Plasma and Flow Visualization Lab under Dr. Sally Bane.

Ms. Nicotra’s research focuses on understanding the flow physics and dynamic behaviors of hypersonic shockwave/boundary-layer interactions (SWBLI). SWBLI result in unsteady flow structures which can cause critical vehicle failure if not addressed, but there is no single conclusive understanding of the mechanisms at work. For her dissertation, Ms. Nicotra conducts experiments in a low-disturbance hypersonic wind tunnel where she uses controlled plasma discharges to introduce tailored perturbations to the SWBLI system. Her goal is to shed light on the frequently debated origins of SWBLI unsteadiness and the nature of the dynamic system behind this phenomenon, while exploring options for active flow control that will improve vehicle safety.

Ms. Nicotra is also the student director of Purdue University’s Center for Integrated Physics of Hypersonics and Extreme Regimes (CIPHER), which is a university research center focusing on interdisciplinary research in the field of hypersonics. She holds a Master of Science in aeronautics and astronautics from Purdue University.

Before her graduate studies, Ms. Nicotra graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach. In 2022, the EmbryRiddle College of Engineering named her the Outstanding Undergraduate Student of the Year in aerospace engineering.

After finishing her doctoral studies in spring 2027, Ms. Nicotra plans to pursue a career in academia, with hopes to continue researching novel topics in high-speed aerodynamics and plasma applications.

Outside of her graduate work, Ms. Nicotra enjoys baking, woodworking, traveling and fostering kittens for her local humane society.

2026 Amelia Earhart Fellow: Haleigh Nyberg (nee Brown)

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:18:18 GMT

Haleigh Nyberg (nee Brown)

District 6

Citizenship: United States

Proposed Program: Astrobiology at Purdue University, USA

Haleigh Nyberg (nee Brown) is a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow and a Ph.D. candidate in earth, atmospheric and planetary sciences at Purdue University, where she conducts research under the guidance of Dr. Stephanie Olson. Her research focuses on the computational modeling of exoplanetary urability, the potential for a location to host an origin of life.

Ms. Nyberg’s dissertation aims to establish a new framework for prioritizing exoplanet mission targets, explicitly differentiating between a planet’s capacity to sustain life versus its potential to originate it. By simulating exoplanetary environments using general circulation models, she tracks how factors like planetary obliquity influence wet-dry cycles and the accumulation of prebiotic organics. This work will culminate in the Origin of Life Index, a metric designed to guide future missions like NASA’s Habitable Worlds Observatory, toward exoplanetary targets most likely to originate life.

Complementing her foundational astrobiology research, Ms. Nyberg is deeply invested in applied space mission development. As a lead data science researcher, she guided a 16-member multi-university team to build a dynamic, Unreal Engine-based visualization tool for NASA’s Lunar Gateway project.

Ms. Nyberg also holds a bachelor’s degree in computational physics from the University of Montana, where she optimized high-altitude balloon trajectory predictions. Dedicated to Zonta International’s mission of women’s empowerment, she is the founding treasurer of the Purdue Golden Z Club and served as a graduate mentor for the Amelia Earhart Leadership for Space Careers program. She also co-founded PortAL Linking Artists and Scientists (PALLAS) to enhance interdisciplinary scientific communication.

Outside of academia, Ms. Nyberg enjoys mending old CRT TVs, digital art and spending time with her two cats and husband.

2026 Zonta Young Women in Leadership Awardee

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 18:19:38 GMT

Aditi Muduganti

District 6

Citizenship: United States

Aditi Muduganti is a recent high school graduate from Wisconsin with a passion for STEM, leadership and community impact. Throughout high school, she pursued opportunities that combined innovation with service, from scientific research to mentoring and advocacy. She conducted award-winning research in astrophysics, including machine learning applications for galaxy classification, exoplanet detection and nebula modeling. Through a NASA internship, she collaborated on projects related to space debris mitigation and aerospace engineering, strengthening her interest in using science and technology to solve real-world challenges.

Aditi served as the Wisconsin Association of School Councils Region 6 president, working with student leaders across the region to promote service, collaboration and student engagement. She was also a columnist for the Coulee Region Sierra Club, where she advocated for environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives. In addition, she helped lead a planting day for Wisconsin's first Miyawaki forest, organizing volunteers and supporting local environmental restoration efforts.

Aditi also volunteers in mentoring programs and community outreach initiatives focused on youth engagement and education. She founded initiatives to increase sustainable technology literacy and created accessible educational opportunities for students. Through these experiences, she learned the importance of collaboration, empathy and empowering others through leadership.

This year, Aditi will begin her undergraduate studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she plans to pursue technology and global advocacy with the goal of creating meaningful change in her community.

In her free time, Aditi enjoys ballet, coding projects, traveling, spending time with her friends and family, exploring different scientific topics, listening to music and volunteering in her community.

Zonta Madison Film Festival

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 03:48:31 GMT

Women Make Movies: 6 Short Films By and About Women

Zonta Madison presents its annual major fundraiser, a film festival highlighting films by and about women

When: Thursday, October 15

Time: 6:00 pm

Location: Barrymore Theater, Madison, WI

,This event will take place with a new film distributor, Women Make Movies. Tickets are now available at barrymorelive.com .

Zonta Club of Chicago Millennium Park Summer Music Concert – June 15, 2026

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:06:43 GMT

Join us June 15 for a free evening of music in Millennium Park

The Zonta Club of Chicago is planning a summer outing on June 15, which is the opening day for the Summer Music Series in Millennium Park. The gates open at 5 p.m., and the music begins at 6:30 until 9:00 p.m. It is a free event featuring Arrested Development, Linda Sol, and DJ Ca$h Era. The music will be a jubilant celebration of Juneteenth with D-Composed and Kahil El'Zabar's Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, including special guests Nona Hendryx and David Murray.

We will meet in the lobby of 70 West Madison in Chicago at 5:00 p.m. From there, we will walk to Millennium Park. Bring along a beverage, snacks, and a blanket or chair. You are welcome to invite a guest. If the weather is not permitting, we will stay at the Copper Club restaurant for snacks and drinks.

Let me know if you plan to attend, so we will leave no one behind. If you need to reach me the night of the event, you can contact me (Anna) by phone/text at 630-988-0625.

Help us start off the summer with a fun evening to network and get to know each other better. Invite others who may be interested.

Computer Recycling Sponsored by Oak Brook Club

Sat, 23 May 2026 16:05:22 GMT

RECYCLE YOUR DESKTOP/LAPTOP COMPUTERS

Empowering communities through technology.

Equip. Connect. Inspire.

The Zonta Club of Oak Brook is sponsoring a computer recycling event with Compudopt, which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to provide technology access and education to under-resourced youth.

Saturday, June 20

10:00am - 2:00pm

Oak Brook Public Library

600 Oak Brook Road (31st St.)

Oak Brook, IL 60523

Contact the Oak Brook Club at zontaclubofoakbrook@gmail.com .

Zonta Club of Springfield Dinner for Contact Ministries

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 02:09:14 GMT

The Zonta Club of Springfield prepared a hot meal for 30 residents of the Contact Ministries Emergency Shelter in Springfield, IL on March 15, 2026.

Contact Ministries provides food, shelter, clothing, financial assistance, referrals, and life skills education and training. Their Emergency (Crisis) Shelter operates overnight every night of the year for single women and women with children of all ages (up to 17 years of age). This provides a safe place for those staying to eat a meal, take a shower, do laundry, and have access to additional services and programs. Case Management and Mental Health referrals are available.

The Zonta Club of Springfield has made this dinner an annual event.

Learn more about the Zonta Club of Springfield .

Learn more about Contact Ministries .

Zonta Club of Kankakee and the Zonta Club of Joliet Upcoming Events

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:25:49 GMT

The Zonta Club of Kankakee and the Zonta Club of Joliet would like to invite you to their upcoming events! Please see the attached flyers for more information. You can reach out to me if you have any questions. I will be happy to pass them along to the clubs.

We have so much to celebrate! We hope to see you there!

Blood Drive Sponsored by Lincoln Club

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 02:23:02 GMT

The Zona Club of Lincoln is hosting a blood drive through ImpactLife.

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Zonta Club of Janesville Meat Raffle

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 03:12:49 GMT

Join us for an afternoon of fun, prizes, and community support at the Zonta Club of Janesville’s Meat Raffle!

All proceeds help fund Zonta’s Women With a Vision Scholarship, empowering local women through education and opportunity.

Date: Sunday, April 12, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Location:
Mo’s Taasbag
2339 Milton Ave
Janesville, WI

What to Expect:
-Meat raffle rounds throughout the event
-Bucket raffles for extra chances to win
-Gift baskets and other great prizes
-A lively afternoon at Mo’s TAASBAG Sports Bar & Grill!

Come out, bring friends, and support a great cause while having a blast. Your participation helps make a real difference for women in our community. The Women With a Vision Scholarship is awarded annually by Janesville Zonta to a single mother living in Rock County who is completing a degree at Blackhawk Technical College or UW-Whitewater at Rock County. The recipient receives $1,250 per semester for a total of $2,500. Funds may be used for tuition, books, fees, and equipment required for course work.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/share/1Afrja8GFZ/ to stay informed on event updates.

New Golden Z Club at Purdue University

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 23:11:05 GMT

The Newest Zonta Club Has Been Chartered at Purdue University

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the Charter Ceremony for the new Golden Z Club of Purdue University was held. After only one campus meeting, the club has 14 members already, all of which were inducted at the Charter Ceremony along with installing the officers for the new Club. The newest Zonta-sponsored college club includes four undergrads in Business and 10 PhD candidates in Planetary Sciences and Geology.

The club is sponsored by the Zonta Club of Frankfort and you can follow along with the Purdue Golden Z Club on Instagram: @goldenz_purdue.

Please join us in welcoming our newest members!

Area 3 Spring Workshop

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 22:41:52 GMT

Sustainability: Our Clubs, Our Planet

Spirit: Amplify in our Clubs and Communities

Human Rights are for Everyone

This Spring Workshop, hosted by the Zonta Club of Springfield, will focus on two Zonta International goals: Sustainability and Spirit. We will share best practices for sustaining our clubs and our planet while fostering a spirit of collaboration within our organization and the broader community. Specifically, you will learn about the environmental risks of microplastics and mitigation strategies, as well as other topics of sustainability. Attendees will also participate in a collective Task Force Practice. Most importantly, this will be an opportunity to network and renew friendships with the engaging women of Area 3 across Central and Southern Illinois.

DATE: May 2

TIME: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

LOCATION: Illini Country Club, 1601 Illini Rd, Springfield, IL

Download the registration form to complete and mail back to the Springfield Club. Registration deadline is April 20, 2026 .

Registration fee: $40 (Includes breakfast, lunch, beverages)

Area 2 Spring Workshop

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:54:02 GMT

Sustainability: Our Clubs, Our Planet

Spirit: Amplify in our Clubs and Communities

Human Rights are for Everyone

The Spring Workshop, hosted by the Zonta Club of Belvidere, is on March 28th, 8:30 a.m.- 2:15 p.m. The workshop will focus on sustaining yourself through food sources, mental health, and physical health, and sustaining your club through membership and leadership. Members of different clubs can share stories, ideas, and concerns with each other throughout the sessions.

Registration fee: $40

Includes breakfast, lunch, beverages, snacks

DEADLINE: MARCH 21, 2026

Janesville Club International Women's Day Celebration

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:26:14 GMT

The Zonta Club of Janesville invites you to join us for an International Women's Day Celebration on March 5, 2026.

Join Janesville Zonta in honoring local women entrepreneurs with complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a keynote speech from Amanda O’Leary Stefl, Founder and CEO of Timber Hill Winery. This event is free and open to the public.

The event will take place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Janesville Woman's Club, 108 S. Jackson St. The social hour will begin at 4:30 pm and the program will begin at 5:30 pm.

Join us in person to honor and celebrate amazing local women entrepreneurs who are making waves in our community! It's a great chance to connect, share stories, and get inspired by real success. Let's come together to support and uplift each other this International Women's Day. Don’t miss out on the fun and empowerment — see you there!

Register for the event at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-local-women-entrepreneurs-for-international-womens-day-2026-tickets-1980368373114?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobile

Zonta Club of Lincoln Afternoon Tea

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:57:36 GMT

Zonta Club of Lincoln Afternoon Tea

The Zonta Club of Lincoln invites you to an Afternoon Tea on Saturday, March 7 from 1-3 pm at the First Presbyterian Church in Lincoln, IL.

Enjoy delicious refreshments, wonderful conversation, and great company in celebration of International Women's Day. All are welcome!

International Women's Day Breakfast

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:50:13 GMT

International Women's Day Breakfast

The Zonta Club of Oak Brook is hosting our annual International Women's Day Breakfast on Monday, March 9 at the Westin Hotel in Lombard. Registration and networking begin at 7:30. The Breakfast and Program begin at 8:00. The featured speaker is Dr. Suzanne Rivera-Mills who is the President of Aurora University in Aurora, IL. She is the first Latina President of the University. She will speak on Women in Leadership.

If you wish to attend, you can send a check for $35.00 payable to the Zonta Club of Oak Brook or any member of the club or contact Mary Kay Nelsen to pay online.

If you are unable to come, I hope you will celebrate International Women's Day in your own special way.

2026 Glo Bingo

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 21:04:22 GMT

2026 Glo Bingo

Join the Zonta Club of Mascoutah for an evening of fun at GloBingo on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Doors open at 6:00 pm; Bingo begins at 7:00 pm.

Located at 1535 N County Rd, Mascoutah, IL.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door and can be purchased by visiting glo-bingo.com/events or contacting Beth at 480-540-1571.

Human Trafficking Webinar

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:28:02 GMT

The ZCK Advocacy Committee presents a Human Trafficking Webinar on Friday, January 30, 2026. 12:00 pm to 12:45 PM.

Join us for a virtual roundtable discussion focused on understanding human trafficking and how it impacts our communities. This conversation will bring together professionals from advocacy, healthcare, and law enforcement to share insights, answer common questions, and discuss how individuals and organizations can better recognize and respond to trafficking. Featured panelists include Jayden Anderson-Baker, CDVP, Development Director at Harbor House; Ashley Villarreal, Director of Community Engagement at Clove Alliance; Detective Sean Prophet at Manteno Police Department; and Brook Coutant, RN at St. Mary's Hospital. The discussion will be moderated by Janice Krizik-Schmidt, Zonta Club of Kankakee Board Director and Advocacy Committee member. This session is designed to provide practical, surface-level information for community members, advocates, and service providers who want to better understand the realities of human trafficking and the role we all play in prevention and response.

Please share with anyone who you think would be interested in this information. This is another free advocacy event. I hope you can attend virtually!

Registration Link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/uhfWr9U5TYGWskJuu4i95w

Panel Discussion

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 16:32:41 GMT

2026 District 6 Fall Confrence

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 15:21:25 GMT

More Info Coming Soon

Home Sweet Home Ministries Donations

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:16:57 GMT

Wow! District 6 delivers at their 2025 Fall Conference!! Thank you to our D6 members for donating so generously to Home Sweet Home Ministries! #homesweethomeministries#ZontiansInAction #endfoodinsecurity #EndPeriodPoverty

Thank you so much for your partnership and large donation to Home Sweet Home Ministries!

We are so grateful for the support and appreciative you all chose us as your donation recipient.

Please thank your members and team for their dedication to helping others!

Blessings, Rody Swaney

2025 Zonta Young Women in Leadership Awardee

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:04:13 GMT

Angeline Valentina Morgado Romero

District 6

Citizenship: Venezuela

Angeline Valentina Morgado Romero is a youth activist committed to strengthening democracy through open government and youth advocacy. As a Venezuelan migrant living in Chile, she has consistently worked to uplift migrant youth and defend their rights, and to advocate for platforms and spaces for dialogue, recognizing the importance of protecting democratic principles.

Angeline's activism began at the community level, where she served as an ambassador for a women-migrant-led initiative where she learned the impact of grassroots organizing. Through efforts like painting community murals, the project promoted positive messages about the migrant community and provided young women safe, creative spaces for interaction and expression. The work led to the establishment of a Youth and Diversities Office.

That experience led Angeline to found "Incidentes," a youth-led organization dedicated to the comprehensive development of Latin American youth through active participation in the political sphere, the democratization of opportunities and information and dialogue.

Now a first-generation college student in the United States, Angeline continues her advocacy as the associate director of global connections with the Wisconsin Union Directorate, where she promotes cultural awareness and education. She continues to advocate for the Venezuelan diaspora as a youth delegate at UN conferences, advancing intersectional frameworks in policymaking. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she serves as both communications chair and co-fundraising chair for the campus chapter of She's the First.

In Angeline's free time, she enjoys reading fiction, immersing herself in different worlds and perspectives, hiking and watching documentaries.

2025 Zonta Women In Business Leadership Award Nominee

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:30:24 GMT

Roxanne Ibe

Encouraging women to drive innovation and impact in the business world

Roxanne Ibe is the founder and managing partner of Talisman Development Group, a boutique real estate development firm with in-house construction management and architectural design services. Her firm specializes in adaptive re-use of existing underutilized commercial properties and historic buildings – transforming overlooked spaces into vibrant, purpose-driven places. With a background in architectural design, development, finance, and hands-on experience in construction estimating, preconstruction, and project management, Roxanne brings practical expertise and creative vision to her projects.

She began her career at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, earning a Bachelors in Architecture, and recently completed her Master of Real Estate Development at Iowa State. She is currently finishing a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Real Estate Finance, further deepening her ability to blend real estate design, strategy, and financial performance.

Beyond her professional work, Roxanne is passionate about community engagement. She volunteers with several local nonprofits serving as a CASA advocate for children navigating the foster care system, after-school tutoring at her local homeless shelter, and mentoring youth from underserved backgrounds. Her dedication to both place and people reflects her belief that good development should create lasting value – not just for investors, but for communities too. In her free time, Roxanne loves traveling, swimming, cooking, and reading.

2024 Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholar

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:23:16 GMT

Victoria Taperova

District 6 Citizenship: Russia

Pursuing dual bachelor's degrees in finance and comprehensive design and a minor in Spanish from Indiana University, Bloomington, USA

Victoria Taperova is an international student at Indiana University Bloomington, pursuing a double major in finance and comprehensive design with a minor in Spanish. Her education combines analytical and creative disciplines, equipping her with a multidimensional perspective to approach complex problems.

Victoria's professional experiences highlight her expertise in financial modeling and operational efficiency. Two summers ago, she interned as a Financial Analyst at JSC Opticom in Russia, where she analyzed investment projects and implemented financial strategies to improve business performance. Building on this foundation, she further honed her skills as an intern in financial planning and analysis and business operations at Tesla in San Francisco. There, Victoria automated complex workflows, including creating a 1,000-line SQL forecasting tool that significantly streamlined processes for supply chain and finance teams. Additionally, she developed a comprehensive financial dashboard that provided Tesla's leadership with actionable insights to improve decision-making.

Beyond her internships, Victoria contributes to student success as a peer tutor in business technology courses and demonstrates leadership in extracurricular activities such as business case competitions.

Fluent in English, Spanish and Russian, Victoria combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving and global awareness. She aspires to integrate her skills to drive impactful solutions in both financial and design-focused industries, leveraging her diverse educational and professional background to innovate and lead.

2025 Amelia Earhart Fellow

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:10:08 GMT

Lisette Melendez

Citizenship: United States

Proposed Program: Planetary Sciences at Purdue University, USA

Lisette Melendez is a planetary geologist and Ph.D. candidate in planetary science at Purdue University. She conducts her research in the Laboratory Studies of the Evolution of Airless Planetary Surfaces (LEAPS), under the advisement of Dr. Michelle Thompson. Her work focuses on understanding how the surfaces of hydrated, carbon-rich asteroids are altered by space weathering processes, including micrometeoroid impacts and solar wind irradiation.

Space weathering plays a critical role in shaping the optical properties of airless bodies, which affects how scientists interpret data from remote sensing missions, our primary method for studying solar system objects. Ms. Melendez uses coordinated laboratory techniques to analyze asteroid samples at the micron scale, including electron microscopy, x-ray computed tomography and nano-infrared spectroscopy. Her research involves materials returned from two major space missions: asteroid Ryugu samples from JAXA's Hayabusa2 mission and asteroid Bennu samples from NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission.

Ms. Melendez earned her Bachelor of Science in geology with a minor in astronomy from the University of South Florida. As an undergraduate, she interned with NASA, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and Brown University, working on projects that ranged from asteroid geology and Martian surface processes to echinoderm fossils. She also contributed to the digital preservation of Florida's natural history and archaeological collections at the USF Library and Institute for Digital Exploration.

Outside of the lab, Ms. Melendez enjoys studying art history, traveling to new countries and curating personal collages from her collection of travel mementos, tickets and keepsakes.

2025 Amelia Earhart Fellow

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:00:57 GMT

Émilie Laflèche

Citizenship: Canada

Proposed Program: Planetary Sciences at Purdue University, USA

Émilie Laflèche is a Ph.D. candidate in planetary sciences at Purdue University. Her research combines biogeochemical, photochemical and radiative transfer modeling to explore how seasonal changes on Earth-like exoplanets may influence future life detection efforts. Her work is directly tied to NASA's upcoming Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), the first space-based telescope designed specifically to search for signs of life on exoplanets.

Ms. Laflèche's research contributes to several key science cases that will shape the design and instrumentation of HWO, helping to define humanity's search for life beyond Earth for decades to come. She received her Bachelor of Science with honors in planetary sciences from McGill University, where she conducted research on surface mapping of simulated exoplanets, remote sensing of lunar impact melt deposits, and experimental precipitation of Martian analog bioclays.

During her time at McGill, Ms. Laflèche founded and chaired the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada's Next Gen Youth Committee, for which she was awarded the RASC President's Award. In 2022, she was selected to command a lunar analog mission at the LunAres Research Station in Poland, where she led research projects on 3D-printed geological tools and food growth in lunar analog soils. Following this mission, she founded and led Purdue's Student-Analog Astronaut Training Program (SA2TP) from 2022-2023, a training and support network for the next generation of analog astronauts.

Ms. Laflèche is also passionate about space ethics and is currently co-leading an interdisciplinary study on ethical issues in astrobiology research alongside a team of philosophers and astrobiologists. She actively contributes to several STEM mentoring and public outreach initiatives at Purdue and beyond.

After completing her Ph.D., she aspires to join the Habitable Worlds Observatory science team as a research scientist at NASA, and one day become an astronaut.

District 6 2025 Fall Conference

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 18:14:13 GMT

Dear District 6 members, I am honored to invite you to attend the 2025 Fall Conference 10/10-10/12 at the Bloomington-Normal Marriott Conference Center in Normal, IL. We are entering the last year of this Biennium. Zonta International asked us to look to the future and plan for the sustainability of District 6 and Zonta International. This includes looking at what we do well and considering what may need to change moving forward. We created a Strategic Plan for District 6’s growth and paths to be taken over the next 7 to 10 years to guarantee we remain a moving force behind building a better world for women and girls. We worked on and launched a Strategic Plan process for the Clubs to go through the same analysis in our Area Workshops this Spring.

Without a strategic approach to the future, we may fail as an organization and become irrelevant. All members are requested to enthusiastically be involved and assist in determining paths for our success, which is this year’s theme: Navigating the Future, Our Path to Success. Our agenda will address our new website, election of our new District 6 Officers and Area Directors, plus opportunities to attend sessions on topics you suggested at the 2024 Fall Conference in Carmel, IN and at the conclusion of each of the Area Workshops this Spring. Change can be challenging, but in this instance, we must face it, embrace it, and use it to our advantage to plan our District’s future. Failure is not an option, what we do is too crucial to the survival of organizations in our communities that make learning and living a meaningful life possible for the women and girls in our District. Thank you for all you do and for attending this 2025 Fall Conference. We do what we do because of your dedication and generosity.

Isabel M. Vidal District 6 Governor, 2024-2026 “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -- Margaret Mead

District 6 Service Project Donation Reminder

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 18:06:10 GMT

Donations for the District 6 Service Project will be picked up Saturday morning, and every contribution big or small makes a meaningful difference. Thank you for helping us support our community and for being a part of this important effort. Your kindness truly means the world!

Zonta 2025 Young Women in Leadership Award International Recipient

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 18:10:25 GMT

Submitted by the Zonta Club of Madison, WI

Congratulations to Angeline Morgado Romero, 2025 Zonta International Young Women in Leadership Awardee. Angeline has received a Zonta International Award of $5.000.

Angeline is a native of Venezuela and her family immigrated to Chile several years ago. She is a student at UW Madison, Wisconsin, currently studying political science with a double major in international studies and pursue a certificate in Gender and Women’s Studies as well.

Angeline hopes to contribute to academic narratives and research about the Venezuelan exodus, youth representation in politics, and public policies that address the needs of historically marginalized communities.

Angeline has already begun to make a difference in the lives of her community here and abroad. This is a just a few of the many activities she is involved in: She works for the WI Union Directorate as Associate Director of Outreach and Global education. She is a member of “She’s the First” chapter, a global organization that advocates for and works to ensure girls have the right to choose their own future. https://shesthefirst.org/ . Angeline is a part of the Wisconsin Madison Model United Nations Student Organization and

currently serves as the vice chair of one of the general assemblies on the WHSMUN staff.

Internationally, she is a member and spokesperson for America Solidaria, a non-profit whose activities advocate for the underserved & disadvantaged youth. https://americasolidaria.org/ She is the founder of “Incidentes”, a youth-led organization promoting comprehensive development of Latin American youth. This group participated in a UNICEF youth organization agenda event. Angeline is also a Spanish tutor and is learning Portuguese.

As the Zonta Club of Madison 2025 Young Women in Leadership award recipient, Angeline

spoke to their membership at the April meeting. Congratulations from District 6!

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2026 Women in STEM District 6 Award Recipient: Dr. Nicole Vander Schaaf

District 6 congratulates Dr. Nicole Vander Schaaf on being the district recipient of the Zonta 2026 Women in STEM award.

'Their Story' Hosted by the Zonta Club of Kankakee

Experience Their Story to understand the real life challenges faced by domestic violence survivors.

Proclamation Recognizing October 24, 2026 as United Nations Day in Illinois

The Governor of Illinois signed a proclamation recognizing United Nations Day in Illinois.

2026 Amelia Earhart Fellow: Lauren Henderson

Lauren Henderson

2026 Amelia Earhart Fellow: Emma Nicotra

Emma Nicotra

2026 Amelia Earhart Fellow: Haleigh Nyberg (nee Brown)

Haleigh Nyberg (nee Brown)

2026 Zonta Young Women in Leadership Awardee

Aditi Muduganti

Zonta Madison Film Festival

Women Make Movies: 6 Short Films By and About Women

Zonta Club of Chicago Millennium Park Summer Music Concert – June 15, 2026

Join us June 15 for a free evening of music in Millennium Park

Computer Recycling Sponsored by Oak Brook Club

RECYCLE YOUR DESKTOP/LAPTOP COMPUTERS

Empowering communities through technology.

Equip. Connect. Inspire.

Zonta Club of Springfield Dinner for Contact Ministries

Zonta Club of Kankakee and the Zonta Club of Joliet Upcoming Events

Blood Drive Sponsored by Lincoln Club

The Zona Club of Lincoln is hosting a blood drive through ImpactLife.

Zonta Club of Janesville Meat Raffle

Join us for an afternoon of fun, prizes, and community support at the Zonta Club of Janesville’s Meat Raffle!

New Golden Z Club at Purdue University

The Newest Zonta Club Has Been Chartered at Purdue University

Area 3 Spring Workshop

Sustainability: Our Clubs, Our Planet

Spirit: Amplify in our Clubs and Communities

Human Rights are for Everyone

Area 2 Spring Workshop

Sustainability: Our Clubs, Our Planet

Spirit: Amplify in our Clubs and Communities

Human Rights are for Everyone

Janesville Club International Women's Day Celebration

The Zonta Club of Janesville invites you to join us for an International Women's Day Celebration on March 5, 2026. ﻿

Zonta Club of Lincoln Afternoon Tea

Zonta Club of Lincoln Afternoon Tea

International Women's Day Breakfast

International Women's Day Breakfast

2026 Glo Bingo

2026 Glo Bingo

Human Trafficking Webinar

The ZCK Advocacy Committee presents a Human Trafficking Webinar on Friday, January 30, 2026. 12:00 pm to 12:45 PM.

Panel Discussion

2026 District 6 Fall Confrence

More Info Coming Soon

Home Sweet Home Ministries Donations

Wow! District 6 delivers at their 2025 Fall Conference!! Thank you to our D6 members for donating so generously to Home Sweet Home Ministries! #homesweethomeministries#ZontiansInAction #endfoodinsecurity #EndPeriodPoverty

2025 Zonta Young Women in Leadership Awardee

Angeline Valentina Morgado Romero

2025 Zonta Women In Business Leadership Award Nominee

Roxanne Ibe

2024 Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholar

Victoria Taperova

2025 Amelia Earhart Fellow

Lisette Melendez

2025 Amelia Earhart Fellow

Émilie Laflèche

District 6 2025 Fall Conference

District 6 Service Project Donation Reminder

Zonta 2025 Young Women in Leadership Award International Recipient

Submitted by the Zonta Club of Madison, WI

The Zonta Club of Janesville invites you to join us for an International Women's Day Celebration on March 5, 2026.