Alice Tucker was raised in Dallas, Texas, but was never referred to as Alice From Dallas, until she moved to Hawaii after graduating from Tulane University in 1953 and getting married the same year to her Army love, Jerry Tucker. Alice still can’t fathom her choice of Spanish Language as her college major, but her honor scholarship helped pay for education, and enhanced her visits to Spain. When Jerry returned from the Korean War to Schofield Barracks with the 25 Division, the couple began to explore future careers and welcome two boys and a girl to the family. Jerry began his ophthalmology business, and Alice dove into learning about the Hawaii culture. She found the YWCA downtown, learned hula from Loyal Garner, took history and craft classes.
“I started volunteering all over the place until the kids aged out of high school. I didn’t know s..t about writing a resume, and after losing the chance to work at Rehab Hospital, I spent two years searching for work. I took a course headed by Displaced Homemakers on how to write a resume and survive interviews, and on my second try, I got the job as Director of Volunteer Services for Rehab Hospital of the Pacific.” Alice loved the job and volunteers at the 4th largest hospital volunteer service in the Hawaii but wasn’t that impressed by the bosses. So, when reduced to working half time, she took advantage of the increased vacation time.
“When I was asked to join Rotary, I was so proud the Rotary Club of Honolulu chose me over the head of the hospital. It’s been inspiring spending time with speakers, like Hillary Clinton…what fun!” Alice says the most marvelous gift her whole life has been leading volunteers…and working with Rotarians at Camp Erdman, on International Projects, helping Alzheimer's adults, Safe Houses, and rebuilding the inside of a house to accommodate a child’s new wheelchair. “Have the time of your life … join and be active.”
Hillary Clinton and Alice Tucker Alice enjoying time with other Rotarians at Dave Shanahan's