DAA Treasurer Resigns

by CFN Staff

December 2010

 

 

CFN-Memphis TN – The 2010 Douglass Alumni Association’s (DAA) Christmas Celebration got kicked off with a shocking announcement. Carolyn Lawrence, Douglass High graduate and DAA Treasurer announced her resignation from the DAA.

 

After giving her monthly financial report, Lawrence delivered a very emotional address and stated the reasons for her resignation. She then rather quickly exited the facility.

 

(Ms. Lawrence is the latest casualty in the battle between the NDAC’s determination to have complete control over the DAA, and the DAA’s resolve to resist such.)

Ms. Lawrence has been a valuable part of and a key member to the DAA’s executive team and her service has been described as being one of great value to the DAA.

 

Lawrence brought professionalism and a sense of thoroughness to a very dysfunctional Douglass leadership. Her efforts were appreciated and will be greatly missed.

 

Lawrence has not been available for contact since her resignation and is not expected that she will be discuss this issue anytime soon.

 

John Bernard, DAA President addressed members immediately following Lawrence’s departure stating that he had no idea her resignation was to come.

 

Bernard later stated that he thought outside influences from DAA members in California was the reason for Lawrence’s resignation after a series of emails were shared with him questioning the lack of financial reporting that was provided to the NDAC on monies raised at a recent fundraising event which Lawrence was the Chairperson.

 

It is widely known that while professionals exist within DAA and are willing to promote and uplift the organization in the right direction, at every turn it seems as though DAA is short changed by these “outside influences” that operate from within the DAA itself. They are fellow DAA members.

 

DAA members are torn between the DAA and the NDAC. Both organizations claim to represent the Memphis Douglass’ community. (see DAA’s Absolute Authority)

 

501 (c)3 organizations into one. Resulting in its dysfunctional relationship and a myriad of problems facing both organizations.

 

 

Bernard stated that he would appoint another Treasurer to take the position of Lawrence; he was not willing to release anyone’s name that he may be considering for the position at this time.

 

Both organizations are tax exempt under the Internal Revenue Service code section 501(c)3, the NDAC insist on controlling the DAA through a membership that wants no part of change.

 

This remains the biggest stumbling block for Bernard’s administration as they seek to educate DAA members and to bring them under one organization that can represent all of Douglass.

 

In the middle of this chaos there are bound to be causalities, disrespect and a lack of acknowledging those elected officials voted in by the DAA general membership.

 

Hopefully DAA will rally around Lawrence while correcting that which needs to be corrected.**