Melinda Arentsen
Sandpiper of the Year
Each year Sandpipers nominates one of the Associate Members to hold the highest honor we offer - Sandpiper of the Year. I am thrilled to be our honoree for 2023-2024, in recognition of my contributions to Sandpipers beyond my active years.
I was introduced to Sandpipers by a friend - who didn’t end up joining! But, after the Prospective Member Orientation, I was sold! That was in 1997. Some of the women that inspired me that day are still involved in Sandpipers. In my eyes, the willingness of many Sandpipers to stay involved long after their required years are over truly speaks to who we are as an organization.
My first committee placement was on the Holiday Homes Tour Facilitating Committee. I was hooked immediately! I co-chaired the Homes Tour the very next year with a Provisional classmate who has since become one of my best friends.
My enjoyment of Sandpipers led me to get a few of my “mommy group” friends to join. Several of them have served in leading roles in Sandpipers and three have been Sandpiper of the Year! Sandpipers are all truly like-minded people. The power of friendship among Sandpipers is unparalleled. Many of these women have helped each other through thick and thin over the years. My Book Club is made up entirely of Sandpipers and we have been drinking wine & reading books together since 2002!
In my President’s message in 2002, I stated “As members of Sandpipers, we believe that we can make a difference in our community. We know that a group of women united for a common cause is a powerful force.” I love that 21 years later, this is still true.
As Sandpiper of the Year this year, I am looking forward to working with both Active and Associate members of Sandpipers to have another successful year!