The Oakdale-Riverbank-Escalon Branch (ORE), founded in 1962, is committed to the educational, cultural and environmental improvement of our area as well as our world. We offer thought-provoking programs, varied interest groups and the opportunity to socialize with a diverse group of educated, interesting women. We share a common commitment to continued learning, women’s issues and community betterment. Our common mission in AAUW is to break through barriers for women and girls. Our branch’s primary function is to support and mentor young girls from our community, beginning in junior high with Tech Trek and continuing through high school and college.
Our membership base draws from the three Central Valley towns – Oakdale (population 23,045), Riverbank (population 25,001) and Escalon (population 7,246). There are no barriers to membership based on gender, race, creed, age, sexual orientation, national origin or disability. We are privileged to share membership in the National AAUW and the California AAUW communities.
Current Events – 2026
Chat with Stanislaus Community Foundation CEO, Marian Kannon! Thursday, January 8, 2026, 6:00 P.M.
Marian Kannon, CEO Stanislaus Community Foundation
President Leah Silvestre Franklin has invited Marian Kannon, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Stanislaus Community Foundation to sit down with us at our January 8th meeting to chat about the Foundation. When issuing the invitation Leah stated: “Some members are familiar with SCF – some are not. It would be great if we understood what you do, the impact you make and how you support us with our scholarship funds and process.” The Stanislaus Community Foundation, started in 2002, has granted more than $42 million in charitable funds to nonprofits and scholarship recipients in Stanislaus County and houses over 190 funds. One of those funds is AAUW-ORE’s Scholarship Fund. Each year we offer scholarships to two Tech Trek alums.
Kannon has deep roots in Stanislaus County having grown up and worked in Modesto for many years. After graduating from U.C. Davis with a communications degree, she began her career as a broadcast journalist, then moved on to working in public relations, marketing and lobbying/legislative affairs. In 2012 she became the CEO of the Stanislaus Community Foundation, which is headquartered in Modesto. In 2006 The Modesto Bee named her as one of “20 under 40” young civic leaders to watch, and in 2015 she was named an Outstanding Woman for Stanislaus County.
The January 8th, Thursday evening meeting will start with a social time at 6:00 P.M. at Judy K’s home in Oakdale and is open to members, guests and those interested in possibly joining the organization. Individuals interested in attending or who want more information about the meeting or AAUW’s mission are asked to RSVP by emailing membership director, Gail Marganelli at gmarganelli@att.net .
Oakdale, Riverbank, Escalon Branch Leaders
2025-2027 ORE Officers: Leah Silvestre Franklin, President; Mary Wolgamot, Co-Secretary; Sharon Hawley Crum, Treasurer; Diane Korupp, Co-Secretary
Meetings are open to members, guests and prospective members. Individuals wanting more information about meetings, locations, or about AAUW’s mission can email membership director, Gail Marganelli at gmarganelli@att.net .