Aubri Davidson the A.B.L.E. Women Club president, knew she wanted to be involved on campus even before she was an official student at the University of Nevada, Reno. Transferring from Truckee Meadows Community College, she was searching for a club focused on sisterhood, education, serving and leadership, while being flexible with her busy work and school schedule. This search led her to A.B.L.E. Women, where those values are at the core of its mission. 

A.B.L.E. Women stands for ambition, beauty, leadership and equality. A.B.L.E. was founded at the University on April 1, 2000, by students Imani Bessem and Serenity Sweet, now alumni. They created an organization dedicated to empowering women to grow personally, support one another and remain actively involved in the Reno community. 

With the slogan “Queens on Campus,” A.B.L.E. Women is the first club of its kind at the University that brings together women of every culture for one mission. 

“Our mission is to create a home away from home, encourage meaningful engagement with the local community, uplift women who support other women and promote educated women of poise, elegance and diversity,” said Davidson. 

The club quickly gained momentum early on through community engagement, social events and step-off competitions that raised money for community organizations.  

Today, A.B.L.E. continues to bring the community together with several events throughout the year. Last year a highlighted event was line dancing day “Dance With Me” at The Joe Crowley Student Union. 

“30 to 40 people attended, and they all got hot pink fans and were taught line dances. Both men and women were included. It was fun, and this event specifically was for anyone to enjoy,” Davidson said. 

Events aside, the club’s focus is on fostering empowering women and leaders. A.B.L.E does this through extensive volunteer work. 

This April, A.B.L.E. Women hosted their second annual Girls Day at the William N. Pennington Youth and Teen Facility, hosting girls ages 5-11. This year’s theme was “Baking and Bonding,” the goal was to help girls build independence, teamwork and confidence through decorating cupcakes, playing team bingo and decorating aprons.  

The A.B.L.E. Women members also volunteer in community service efforts through park cleanups. They adopted Sky Country Park located in Reno near the University's campus and they help maintain the park.

At the end of the semester,A.B.L.E. Women’s Club will host a member appreciation social, where it will recognize and crown new executive board members and celebrate graduating members. This marks the first year the club is hosting this type of appreciation and recognition event.

Looking ahead, the club is preparing to welcome its next group of leaders. This year, A.B.L.E. Women will also be holding an official board election. With huge member growth, the current board is looking for members who will continue to enhance their community service work. Every e-board member receives a pink blazer, a huge honor and staple to the club’s history. 

“Working with the women on the board has taught me to grow into a leader, delegate tasks, and to stand firm, not to crumble under pressure. It also helped me learn to take ideas and bounce off each other,” said Davidson. 

This experience doesn’t just speak for Davidson, but reflects the impact A.B.L.E Women has on its members. 

A.B.L.E. Women continues to grow every year. Offering every woman on campus a space to join. After 26 years, A.B.L.E. continues its mission of empowering women through leadership, service and sisterhood. 

Those interested in joining or learning more about the A.B.L.E Women can follow them on Instagram @a.b.l.e.women or send an email to pres.aimtobeable@gmail.com.