Glenda DeShazo named PBW Woman of the Year

ADA — Glenda DeShazo, a member of Ada Business and Professional Women (BPW) since 1983, was recently named 2008 Ada BPW Woman of the Year in appreciation for her exceptional qualities of leadership and integrity and her distinguished achievements for the betterment of her community.

The announcement and presentation of the Woman of the Year plaque was made by Sherri Curry, 2007 Ada BPW Woman of the Year, at the group’s Aug. 27 noon meeting held at Mrs. B’s.

“Her participation is encouraging and her sharing of herself makes us better women," Curry said. "She is there to answer questions and advise us based on her experience and vast knowledge of BPW. She is understanding, patient, quick to express appreciation and give praise for efforts made.

"She is an excellent example of BPW’s philosophy of ‘Women Helping Women.’ She serves as a role model for her family, friends, co-workers, members of our community, and BPW members across the state. She unselfishly helps other to grow and develop personally and professionally—mostly unaware of the difference that she is making in the lives of those that she knows.”

Not only has DeShazo been active in Ada BPW, she has served in every state office including 2007-2008 Oklahoma Business and Professional Women’s State President. In 2008-2009, she was privileged to serve as a National Representative on the Board of Directors of BPW/USA. Other accomplishments and awards include being a charter member of the Board of Directors for the OK/BPW Foundation and serving as Vice President for four years, 2007 OK/BPW Mentor of the Year, recognized as a BPW/USA PowerWoman, 1985 Ada Woman of the Year, Member of the Year, District Director, District Woman of the Year, and 1989 Ada Working Mother of the Year.

In addition to BPW, DeShazo was a charter member and officer of the Ada Professional Secretaries International, served as a member of the Byng Future Business Leaders of America’s Advisory 1986-1998, Ada’s 1993 Outstanding Businesswoman recognized by the Oklahoma Future Business Leaders of America, was Co-Chair for the Ada Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors for two years, is currently the Treasurer and a Board member of the Ada Recycling Coalition, a member of the Salvation Army Ladies Auxiliary, and teacher and pianist at Francis First Baptist Church.

Glenda DeShazo recently completed 30 years of employment with Horne & Company P.C., Certified Public Accountants. She is married to Steve DeShazo, Director of Vegetation Management for PEC. They have three grown sons, Mark DeShazo, Upland, California, a program developer with Netcellent System, Inc.; Chris DeShazo, Bozeman, Montana, computer tech for Montana State University – School of Architecture; and Maj. Brian DeShazo, Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, Operations Officer at the National Guard Armory in Okmulgee. The DeShazoes also enjoy their eight grandchildren: Kevin, Hannah, Christian, Sierra, Kurstie, Kane, Karlie, and Miles.

Since 1919, BPW has been promoting equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information.  Ada BPW continues to address the issues of concern to working women in our community by hosting several events throughout the year to raise awareness of these issues, provide networking opportunities and career development programs.

Ada BPW meets the 2nd & 4th Thursday of every month at noon at Mrs. B’s., 1004 E. 32nd. For more information, email adabpw@yahoo.com.