Jean Schrader has been awarded the title Zontian of the Year.

“Any one of the current local members of the international organization could have been chosen, but the outstanding accomplishments of Mrs. Schrader made her selection by the committee as Zontian of the Year an easy one,” Kathy Steadman said during the surprise presentation.

Schrader’s family was hidden away in the Marvin House prior to the award. When her name was announced, after a skit of hints at who it might be, her family proudly appeared with hugs and kisses for a very deserving woman. Her award included a plaque engraved with her name to be displayed at the Marvin House, as well as a Wonder Woman tiara, because according to Steadman, that is who Mrs. Schrader is.

Mrs. Schrader professional career has included being an instructor, professor, and current dean of science, technology, engineering and math at Jamestown Community College. She has been a member of Zonta since 2008 serving on a variety of committees including her current committee work of Zonta Day at Chautauqua and the Awards committee. She has also recently served two terms as the club’s treasurer.

The first chapter of Zonta International was started in Buffalo in 1919. Jamestown’s chapter was fourth. There are more than 1,100 Zonta clubs in 63 countries now. One of the club’s first missions of the organization was for women’s rights and the right to vote. Today the international club continues to strive for the improvement of the legal, political, economic, health and professional status of women globally and locally through service, advocacy and education. For more information on our local Zonta club and activities in Jamestown, visit ZontaJamestown.org.