PORT TOWNSEND — Women in Today’s Politics is the focus of the AAUW Port Townsend meeting Saturday, April 16.
The free program — hosted by the Port Townsend branch of the American Association of University Women and its affiliate, the University Women’s Foundation of Jefferson County — will be from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Elks Lodge, 555 Otto St.
Guest panelists will be Ruth Gordon, Jefferson County clerk; Kathleen Kler, Jefferson County commissioner of District 3; and Catharine Robinson, deputy mayor of Port Townsend.
The panel will discuss current trends in running for political office, challenges unique to women candidates and how to prepare for a career in politics.
Gordon has served as Jefferson County clerk since 2005.
The role of the county clerk is to protect the integrity and accuracy of court records, conduct jury management, and act as the primary financial officer and department administrator for the Superior and District Courts.
Kler, elected in 2014, is one of three Jefferson County commissioners.
She represents District 3, which covers a geographic area including the south and southwest sections of Jefferson County.
The commissioners provide general oversight of county employees, develop and implement policies and ordinances, manage the budget and revenue, and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
Robinson has served on the Port Townsend City Council for more than 20 years and is currently the deputy mayor.
The City Council oversees city government functions, adopts and updates city ordinances, makes policy and budget decisions, and ensures compliance with state and county regulations.
Robinson also has served on a variety of local boards and advisory boards.
For more information on AAUW projects and membership, visit www.pt-wa.aauw.net or contact Anne Englander at 360-390-5896.
