Lake Sunapee VNA Shares Annual Luncheon Highlights
On May 13, 2026, a sold-out crowd of 235 attended the 27th annual Women Who Make A Difference Luncheon to honor extraordinary local women and raise funds for Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice (LSRVNA).
Annual traditions continued as the New London Elementary School third graders welcomed guests with uplifting songs directed by music teacher Nicole Densmore. Event traditions also included a cash raffle, door prizes, speaker, awards and a moving song to close the event, sung again this year by New London resident Nora Gantner.
This year’s speaker—Vivien McCurdy, RDN, MPA, MJ, and Presidential Spouse at Colby-Sawyer College—shared her personal journey, emphasizing how courage and community often carry us through. A native of Hong Kong, Vivien navigated life and education in North America with English as her second language, building a path shaped by courage and the support of those around her.
Callie Dixon from Newport High School received the High School Student Who Makes A Difference Award. Callie’s resume includes impressive achievements in academics (ranked number five in her class and member of the National Technical Honor Society), athletics (Division 2 shot-put state champion), school activities (such as Prom Committee and Lock-in Committee), community service (more than 130 hours during her four years of high school) and more. "We are proud to recognize such a remarkable young woman in our community," said Cathy Raymond, Development Officer at LSRVNA.
The much-anticipated Woman Who Makes A Difference Award was presented to Susan Chase of Andover. For decades, Susan has been a driving force behind initiatives that bring people together, strengthen community bonds and improve everyday life for residents. She helped to found The Andover Community Hub, transforming a former town hall into a vibrant, inclusive gathering place. She has also played a pivotal role in the Andover Energy Group, served as a dedicated library trustee, supported local arts through the Coffeehouse, engaged residents in civic and political life and so much more. According to those who nominated her, “Susan’s ability to inspire others, bring people together and turn ideas into meaningful action embodies what it means to make a difference.” Raymond shared, “We are also delighted to note that Susan is the first recipient of the award from the town of Andover!”
LSRVNA also recognizes the leadership of this year’s STAR sponsors, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust and Ellie Snyder, and ANGEL sponsors, Francoise Crowell, Mary & Greg Gutgsell, Ledyard Bank, Mascoma Bank and Gail Matthews. “Every supporter, and there are so many, makes a difference to the success of this joyful occasion and helps sustain Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice as an enduring presence,” said Raymond.
Additional thanks goes to the community members on the 2026 Luncheon Committee: Katie Blake, Ellen Brownson, Gail Matthews (Honorary), Abby Peel, Jane Peel, Jayne Rayno, Jan Sahler, Tanya Wilkie and Alicia Zanderigo.