President
Board Buddy to: M, P, U, V, AE, AL, AN, AO
Cel Bailey, D
celbaileypeo@gmail.com
(205) 937-1505
Roots give us a sense of identity that strengthens us to go through life and helps us feel grounded with a sense of meaning. My young parents welcomed me into this world on a very cold Thanksgiving eve at my grandparents’ home in the rural Southwest Alabama community of Dottelle. It is here where I learned 1) to cherish drinking icy cold well water out of a dipper, 2) the purpose of a slop jar and outhouse, 3) how wonderful smokehouse cracklins were, 4) how to make and sunbake mud pies, 5) to save every penny I could for the world’s best rolling store candy, 6) to pick out school clothes from the Sears catalog that would eventually provide my dream home and paper dolls, and 7) how to perfectly roll my grandfather’s cigarettes. This is also where I had my first exposure to money management from daily wages in a neighbor’s cotton patch. Life was blissfully simple in those days!
My high school days were spent studying, cheerleading, working in a local grocery store, and helping my mom, a single parent care for my three younger siblings. While some of my classmates were busy filling out college applications my junior year, I reconciled myself to taking my place next to my mother at Vanity Fair Mills. At the persistence of an older friend, I reluctantly entered the local County Junior Miss Pageant. Surprisingly, I found myself representing our county in the State Junior Miss Pageant far from Monroe County in the largest city I had ever visited—Birmingham, AL. It was obvious God had other plans for me. With the county winner’s scholarship and a second state scholarship, my mother and I traveled up Highway 5 to a school by the name of Judson College, a name I had never heard of in a town I had never heard of!
Attending Judson was lifechanging for me! What was to be one year of college paid for by two Junior Miss scholarships, $200 I had earned that summer, and my work study as school switchboard operator, library assistant and dining room girl turned into four remarkable years when I graduated with a degree in biology and chemistry. I departed those hallowed halls well equipped with substantial leadership skills, a much stronger faith, and many lasting bonds of sisterly love. I also met a handsome young Marion Military Institute cadet during my freshman year; whom I became engaged to my senior year.
After graduating from Judson College, I completed my internship in Medical Technology at Birmingham Baptist Hospitals. During my internship, I squeezed in enough time to marry that cadet. I retired in 2014 after enjoying a 43-year career as Blood Bank supervisor at Princeton Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham.
The true center of my life is my BIL of 50 years, Tim, 3 children, Courtney 43, Christopher 41, Caroline 39, 7 grandchildren who melt my heart when they call me “MuMu” and our 4-legged furry babies.
Service through volunteerism has been the cornerstone for our family through the years as we have sought God’s guidance with giving our hands to serve and our hearts to love in our church, our community and beyond with our commitment to lifelong service. Hebrews 13:36 says “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” In my spare time, I am quite the avid sports fan! I also love baking, antiquing, bird watching, surface gardening, playing bunco and bridge, and I savor quality time with our children and grandchildren.
Prior to 2014, I had never heard of P.E.O. Two church friends presented me the gift of P.E.O. that year when they initiated me into Chapter D as a 1st generation sister. I was filled with excitement and joy knowing it was a golden opportunity to “PAY IT FORWARD” in reaching out to women in hopes of awakening their potential and enabling them to open doors to a brilliant and fulfilling future as was done for me 48 years earlier! Little did I know when I took those first small steps, it would lead me to this point in my journey! Chapter D has provided me with many opportunities to develop and learn leadership skills in a nurturing, loving atmosphere where their loving hands have steadfastly held my hand as I promoted our projects, served in chapter and state leadership positions, hosted our Reciprocity leadership workshop, embraced other sisters, and offered the gift of P.E.O. to women near and far.
As I swap writer’s cramp for a trusty calculator and spreadsheet, I remain amazed at how quickly my first year on the State Board has passed by. Reflecting on my first year, I have experienced incredible and most heart-warming moments. And YES…I have, at times, been the board member looking a little bug-eyed and uncertain. In spite of those times, I’ve enjoyed an incredible fairy-tale year! Being a Board Buddy has brought such joy and laughter to my soul! I am deeply appreciative to my BIL who has chauffeured me all over Alabama for P.E.O. functions, faithfully cooked our meals when I needed to “Be P.E.O” and camped in his man-cave while I ZOOMED P.E.O. I am so THANKFUL to our Board and the PSPs for their shepherding, encouragement, and grace that they have so freely showered me with this year.
Vice President
Board Buddy to: E, H, O, W, AB, AF, AI, AJ
Paige McCormick, Ch AC
peopaige@gmail.com
(205) 344-3096
My story begins in Eku, a village in Nigeria, where early Baptist missionaries founded a hospital and nursing school as well as a school to train pastors, where my parents would eventually work. I was born at this hospital the year following Nigeria’s independence from England. It was an exciting time to grow up in this “new” country, where I attended preschool at the newly built University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Except for fourth and ninth grades in Boaz, Alabama, where my mother had grown up, I attended Hillcrest School in Jos, Nigeria, an international boarding school. After graduating, I attended Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, and completed a BA in History and English. I continued with a Master of Divinity at Southeastern Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina.I then embarked on a lifelong career in education, first at Wake Technical Community College as an instructor and later as the associate director for Adult Basic Skills. While working, I completed my MLS at North Carolina State University, exploring my academic interests in African literature and film, along with another very important project, the birth of my daughter. At the time, my husband had completed his PhD at UNC, Chapel Hill, and was hired by Stillman College in Tuscaloosa. With our young daughter, we were eager to be near our Alabama families again. I continued my academic pursuits at The University of Alabama, receiving my PhD in Post-colonial Theory and Anglophone African Literature. After graduating, I taught eight years as a full-time English instructor at UA. Six years ago, I accepted an Associate Professor position at Stillman College, and currently serve as the Chair of the Department of English, Journalism, and Media Communications.
I was given the gift of P.E.O. from Gayle Howell (PSP) and the loving sisters of Chapter AC in Tuscaloosa. During my ten years in P.E.O. I have held the offices of guard, chaplain, corresponding secretary, vice-president, and president.. Each office has taught me valuable skills that prepared me to become a state officer. As an educator, P.E.O. is a perfect fit for me! I know the importance of achieving academic degrees that empower women to make a difference in the world. In Nigeria, I saw how families sacrificed much to ensure that all of their children attended school. I see this same passion in our IPS recipients. As a P.E.O. I am able through the power of us all to help students here and around the world achieve their dreams.
I am married to an amazing BIL, Mark McCormick, Provost and Vice-President, Stillman College. I am so proud that our daughter Gwenafaye McCormick is also a P.E.O. (2019 AC/AL). She lives in Kaiyo, Japan, and works as a Coordinator of International Relations through the JET Program.
Organizer
Board Buddy to: A, B, D, F, K, R, T, AG
Nancy Newton, Ch AJ
nancynewton.peo@gmail.com
(719) 428-9360
I was born in Henry County, Virginia to parents who had married late due to my dad’s service in World War II. My brother and I were raised in a small town with strong ties to family and our Episcopal Church.
I started my academic career at Patrick Henry Community College in Martinsville, Virginia. I transferred to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (now known as Virginia Tech) to complete my degree and to be a member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. In later years, I would go on to obtain a master’s degree in Space Systems Operations and a doctorate in Organizational Leadership.
In 1977, as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force, I was assigned to the Cheyenne Mountain Complex, Peterson AFB, Colorado (the same place depicted in the movie “War Games”). I served in the USAF for nearly 8 years (in Colorado and Thule Air Base, Greenland.) Work in my military days was primarily detecting, tracking, and cataloging satellites. After leaving active duty, I became an Air Force Civilian Employee engaged in war planning, military wargames, field exercise design, and joint service training. My final assignment was as Chief of Plans and Exercises for 21st Space Wing, Peterson AFB CO.
It was at the 21st Space Wing I found the P.E.O. world. My office next door neighbor, Lt Col LJ Van Belkum (now retired and PSP Colorado), introduced me to P.E.O. with Chapter K, Manitou Springs. LJ went on to charter a new chapter in Colorado Springs (Chapter JA). I served as Recording Secretary in the start-up phase and then as Vice President once we were organized. Also, in that time at the Wing, I married my wonderful husband, David and was blessed to be stepmom to his adorable daughter Amanda. Yes, David is a Rocket Scientist. He has launched Space Shuttles and is now working on Artemis, our next moon rocket.
Finally, once I retired (early) from the government we made the big move to the Huntsville area to be close to our moms who were both in bad health. We had been in our first Alabama house, way out in Toney, AL about 10 days and I found Mary Wiley’s business card and a note on my front door. The rest is history. Chapter AJ welcomed me with open arms and big hearts. These are some of the most amazing and talented sisters.
Treasurer
Board Buddy to: : I, J, L, S, Y, AA, AD, AH, AK
Cheryl (Chery) Williams, Ch AG
cherypeo@gmail.com
(256) 506-0563
My life journey begins in the small Northeast Georgia town, Nicholson, following my birth on November 6, 1954 in Athens, Georgia. I grew up on our family poultry farm, learning early in life and by the example exemplified by my parents, grandparents, and extended family the importance of faith, family, a noble work-ethic, community, and civic duty.
I was active in 4-H achieving the recognition of Master 4-Her upon being named Georgia 4-H State Girls Achievement winner. As a senior 4-H’er I organized The Be Wise, Be Safe 4-H club in Jackson County, Georgia. The program assisted in the organization of a local 4-H chapter at the New Dawn Workshop for special needs individuals. This was one of the first 4-H programs in the Southeast for special needs individuals. The Be Wise, Be Safe club also organized and introduced the “Buckle Up for Safety” seatbelt campaign as a Georgia statewide 4-H program. I continued with the program throughout my college years. The Be Wise, Be Safe 4-H Club was recognized by the National Safety Council for our work.
I received my Associate degree in Agriculture from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) in Tifton, Georgia in 1974. While a student at ABAC I was involved in the Student Government Association as secretary. I was one of the first female delegates to the International Poultry and Egg Fact-Finding Expo. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture (Poultry Science) from the University of Georgia in 1976.
I married Robert M. Williams, DVM (whom I met in an undergraduate poultry disease class while we were students at the University of Georgia) on December 31, 1976. Family is extremely important to Robert and I. We have six wonderful children and seven awesome grandchildren. Our time with family is so very special to us, we are so very fortunate to have each other in our life endeavors.
I was employed by the USDA from 1976-1991. My work with the USDA was instrumental in the development of chicken nuggets and patties for the United States Military and United States School Lunch Program. I earned four licenses in the poultry industry and one in the beef industry.
When my family lived in Albertville, Alabama, I was involved in the Albertville City School System as an ESL aid, substitute teacher, class volunteer, and Odyssey of the Mind coach. I was instrumental in starting a tutoring center for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. I was president of the local PTA City School Council and served on the state PTA committees. These last several years I have volunteered at the Baldwin County South Baldwin Literacy Council as a youth and GED tutor.
I am a member of Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Foley, Alabama, serving as a member of the church choir, flower guild, and ECW (Episcopal Church Women).
Robert and I love to travel, especially to America’s national parks. Our goal is to visit all of the national parks. We were delighted to introduce our three children to the national parks during their youth. We are avid University of Georgia football fans and look forward each fall to tailgating with family and friends. We also follow UGA baseball. A highlight of our present life is following our grandchildren’s various athletics, fine arts, and 4-H activities.
One of the most significant adventures of my life was becoming a PEO in Chapter AG on April 21, 2016. I was so fortunate to join a wonderful group of ladies that have become family, that I now call sisters. In the words of PEO’s Objects and Aims, “To seek growth in charity toward all with whom we associate, and a just comprehension of, and adherence to the qualities of Faith, Love, Purity, Justice, and Truth.”
Secretary
Board Buddy to: C, G, N, Q, X, Z, AC, AM, AP
Sally Priester, Ch AD
607-280-5076
I was born and raised in central Illinois in a small factory and farming community. It was an idyllic upbringing, a time of being able to walk to school, play in the neighborhood all day and grow up as part of small town life. My father was determined that my older sister and I would have experiences outside of that small world so he filled our young lives with travel to cities large and small. When I was 13 my father drove 200 miles with me so I could see a live musical theater performance in Chicago and it changed my life. Three years later an audition for the School Chorus of America led me to a six week tour with their national choir in Europe when I was 16 – a very big adventure for a girl from a small town. I was so fortunate to be able to attend Agnes Scott College for my undergraduate degree and the University of Georgia for post-graduate studies. A love of music and theater gave me an education full of vocal performance and theater arts. I then made my home in Atlanta GA, starting an arts career that spanned over 40 years.
I met my husband David in the backstage of a small Atlanta theatre and during the many years with him I was fortunate to be able to continue singing professionally eventually establishing a small professional a cappella quintet, The Atlanta Notables. Over the years I directed over 40 musicals and revues, appeared in large and small shows, toured in theater productions, did voice-over and back-up recording work and sang throughout the South and Mid-west whenever possible. My son Tom was born in Atlanta, so I then continued working as a vocal coach and began a free-lance career as a fund-raiser and grant writer. In the meantime, my husband who was a television broadcast engineer working for Georgia Power and Southern Company, continued to design and build broadcast studios in Alabama, Georgia and North Carolina. In the 1990’s he changed careers and became a full-time engineer for a broadcast design firm and took on his first large project with the IOC (International Olympic Committee). Because of his work with the Olympics we were part of several Olympic Games projects and eventually moved to Sydney Australia while he supervised the construction of the main broadcast center. My son and I had a wonderful year living in Epping New South Wales, traveling all over Australia and even traveling to Asia when possible. Eventually we returned to the US and in 2003 we moved to upstate New York where my husband worked for Ithaca College Park School of Communications. I once again began to work for various churches as music director and singer and I eventually became the Interim Director of the Loaves and Fishes of Tompkins County NY, a large local community kitchen in Ithaca. During my time in New York I was initiated into Chapter BJ/NY. It had always been my mother’s and my grandmother’s hope that I could join PEO. Previously because of all my traveling and short-term employment I never resided anywhere long enough to fulfill residency requirement to join a local chapter. I will always be grateful to the sisters of Chapter BJ for inviting me to be a PEO sister in their chapter. In 2012 I relocated to Huntsville, moving closer to my older sister in Birmingham and my adult son who lives in Atlanta. I promptly joined the Huntsville Community Chorus Association where I worked as Administrative Director until the summer of 2025. I continue to write grants for not-for-profits, sing whenever possible and support the arts in Alabama. Chapter BJ/NY was determined to find me a PEO home in Alabama and I was able to transfer into Chapter AJ/AL the month after I arrived in Huntsville. Several years later I transferred into Chapter AD/AL to support this smaller chapter. I am truly blessed to have been part of Chapter AJ and to now be a current member of Chapter AD. I have created a lovely life in the South, surrounded by my PEO sisters.
Past President
Elaine Bassett, Ch AF
elaine.bassett.peo@gmail.com
(334) 372-7329
An only child, I was born in Columbus, Georgia, but moved to the country in Barbour County, Alabama, when I was twelve. There I spent wonderful years living next door to my grandmother, who taught me to cook, sew, grow vegetables, work hard, take care of people, and love Jesus. Even as a young girl, I knew I wanted to be a teacher, so when I finished high school, I headed to Troy State University to get an education degree. I finished my master’s degree and was invited to stay on as an instructor, and I discovered that I absolutely loved teaching composition and grammar to college freshmen. I also discovered that I absolutely loved one of the other instructors at the University, a cute linguistics professor named Marvin Bassett. Luckily, he felt the same, so we got married!
I took some time off from teaching to raise a family, two precious girls: Katie (who is now my sister in Chapter AF and who gifted our family with her precious husband, Kevin) and Mellie. Definitely, the best job I have ever had was being mama to these two. After they were both in school, I went back to Troy University and continued teaching. After a few years I moved to the Writing Center and served as its director for almost twenty-five years. I was involved in many academic organizations and honor societies, but nothing ever influenced me as much as my involvement with a small group called P.E.O.
One of my church choir buddies, who was a founding member of Chapter AF, told me about P.E.O., and I was intrigued. After meeting other members, I was sure I wanted to be a part of this special group. I was initiated into Chapter AF in 2005 and have enjoyed serving the chapter in almost every officer position and committee. You can imagine my delight when I found out that I would also be able to serve on the state level. I am beyond excited.
In addition to P.E.O., I am active in the Troy First United Methodist Church where I sing in the choir and teach Sunday school. I also work with the Troy University Foundation as chair of two scholarship committees. I think everyone, especially women who face their own unique set of challenges, deserves the opportunity to improve his/her life through education. If I can help someone succeed in that endeavor, then I also have succeeded.
I have a good life. I’m still in love with my husband after forty years, and we are still each other’s best friend. My children live close by, so I get to see them often, and they even still enjoy coming to see mama and daddy! I am also GaGa to a grandson, Ben, who always lifts my heart and makes me smile. I have been blessed with much love from my family, my friends, and especially my sisters in P.E.O. I love God and trust in His loving care for me, and I see my job in life as sharing that love with others. Life has not been without its troubles, heartaches, pain, and grief, but it has also given me much joy, love, and fulfillment, and for that I am very thankful.