Civic clubs played a key role for the public good when Liberal was still a fledgling town. Women’s clubs raised money to establish the local library, parks, and more. The PEO Chapter AP continued the tradition with a donation to help propel construction of the Sharp Champions Center on the campus of Seward County Community College. The indoor, multi-sport complex is part of the college’s “Students First Community Always” capital campaign. 

PEO — acronym for Philanthropic Educational Organization — boast a quarter million members nationwide, and has three local chapters, noted longtime member Linda Moeller. While many civic clubs were once viewed as a part of exclusive society, “we focus on education and improvement for all,” she said. 

PEO, established in 1869, is one of the oldest women’s organizations in North America, and awards more than $200 million in assistance of higher education each year. Locally, PEOs focus on scholarships and grants that “motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations,” states the organization’s mission statement. 

Several local members of the AP Chapter count three generations of family participation, said member Jo Ann Sharp. 

To join PEO in contributing to the SCCC Capital Campaign, contact the Development Office, 620-417-1131, or by email, [email protected].