Term: 2002 to 2003

Photo by Jeannette Michelson

Mrs. Andrea Rodner’s background as a businesswoman along with her degrees and expertise in the fine arts, enhanced and benefited The Garden Club of Long Beach Island during her tenure as president from 2002 to 2003. Andrea and her husband, Lawrence, purchased a home in North Beach Haven after living and working in New York for many years. Through her job as a retail and product developer, Andrea traveled around the world until her retirement. She settled into Life on LBI where a friend urged her to join the club in 1997. However, after Sandy, Andrea made the move to Manahawkin where she now resides.

Before becoming President of the club, Andrea held other various positions. She specifically felt being the Holiday House Chair gave her the confidence and background knowledge of the club’s workings to say “yes” when asked to become the garden clubs president.

During her presidency, Andrea‘s passion for art was clearly demonstrated in her bringing Art and Bloom to the club. Andrea had observed the project in Montclair, New Jersey’s Garden club, and thought it would be a great fit for LBI. Along with several other members, Andrea worked with Pine Shores and the Noyes Museum to make this program a reality for The Garden Club of LBI. This project continues today under Andrea‘s watchful eyes and dedication. Another special accomplishment during Andrea‘s time as president was helping to start our club’s newsletter. At this point in time, the newsletter continues to be each members monthly connection to the news of the club.

After her term as President, Andrea was contacted by the Garden Club of NJ to be its District VIII Director. She held this position from 2004 to 2006 along with bringing two of these state meetings to LBI. Andrea shared that in doing this, it initiated a change as to how The Garden Club of LBI was viewed at the state level – a club to be respected and admired.

In conclusion, besides being Past President, Andrea is a Lifetime Member and an Honorary Member. Honorary Members are a small group of members who have received this honor for exceptional service to the club giving them the rights and responsibilities of active members. Andrea’s influence is still felt in the club where she continues to be respected and a knowledgeable member.