Nearly 90 people attended the 2025 annual  DRSPA  meeting on October 22 at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover. The event included time to socialize with former colleagues and friends, informative presentations from distinguished speakers, and an official business meeting followed by a luncheon and prize drawings.

Denise Schwartz, DRSPA president, called the meeting to order and said she was pleased at the turnout and the direction of the group. “It was great to see so many people here today, as we continue to grow and expand our base,” she said.

Speakers included Lt. Gov. Kyle Evans Gay, who presented on The Economic Case for Childcare, discussing the importance of accessible childcare for economic development. “If you invest in a baby born tomorrow, I promise you, you’ll see a return on investment in 20 years,” she said.

State Senator (ret.) Karen Peterson spoke about Health Care: Where are we going?, outlining current challenges and future directions for healthcare policy.  Kent County Recorder of Deeds Eugenia Thornton explained Transfer-On-Death Deeds, providing insights on estate planning and property transfer.

Also speaking was Benefits Administrator Stephanie Hartos, who addressed Medicare Open Enrollment, offering guidance on options and updates for retirees and Pension Administrator Joanna Adams, who provided fun facts on Delaware’s pensioners and discussed benefits and management for members.

Delaware US Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester –  whose father Ted Blunt was an active member of DRSPA before he passed away – sent a video greeting to the crowd. Also on hand was State Senator Eric Buckson, R-Camden, who spoke about the importance of getting education right.

After a short break, DRSPA executive board members held a business meeting during which Secretary Becky Scarborough presented minutes, Treasurer Hugh Scott detailed the association’s financial status and Executive Director Pati Nash gave updates on bylaws, recent legislation and ongoing DSPRA initiatives.

Members enjoyed a luncheon, door prizes and a 50/50 drawing before President Schwartz made closing remarks.