I joined UFDC after moving to Pensacola, FL, in 2007, where I joined the Pensacola Doll Study Club. I especially enjoyed being the chairwoman for our club luncheon, "By the Sea," held at the Pensacola Naval Air Station, and then served four years as the club president. I have attended many doll shows and conventions and have made many doll friends.

My career as a high school drama teacher for thirty years in Palm Beach County, FL, began my interest in dolls. I enjoyed the idea of costuming dolls to showcase my students' costumes in play productions. Also, I've always enjoyed traveling and began collecting dolls from the various countries I visited. I believe dolls and their costumes can represent the history and culture of a country and are excellent teaching tools. My collection of dolls is eclectic, from antique to modern. I enjoy dolls by current artists like Helen Kish and Robert Tonner and past artists like Emile Jumeau. I look at dolls as more than playthings; I look at dolls as art.

As the incoming Regional Director for Region 9, I am eagerly looking forward to visiting many clubs and attending their doll shows.