Welcome from the President

Dear Friends,

As the new National President of the DBE and a longtime member based in Kansas, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our website.

My name is Lynda Krupp, originally from the Worcestershire countryside, where I was born in a 200-year-old cottage. After marrying an American sailor, I’ve spent over 40 years in the United States. It wasn’t until I moved to Kansas and our previous nomadic existence came to a stop that I found the DBE; what a lucky move that was. The DBE is a community that has filled the gap left by distance from home, offering connection, culture, and a renewed sense of belonging.

The National Board rotates every three years through our four districts: Western, Southern, Eastern, and Midwest. This current administration hails from the Midwest—the smallest district—with officers from Kansas, Missouri, and Ohio. We're honored to follow in the footsteps of pioneering leaders like Julia Cooke Adams, our first National President, who founded the British Home in Illinois (now Cantata). Previous Midwest administrations started the process of acquiring the 501(c)(3) status for our organization and introduced our current logo, leaving a legacy we’re proud to continue.

In today’s fast-moving, digital world, our challenge is to remain relevant and grow our membership. While we no longer rely on airmail or overseas calls to stay connected, we still treasure the traditions and identity rooted in the Commonwealth. We also acknowledge that our name—Daughters of the British Empire—can be a barrier for some, yet it reflects our rich history of service, from fundraising for ambulances in wartime to supporting our senior living homes and communities today. Changing our name is not a simple process, but it is a conversation we are ready to have.

Here in the Midwest, we like to be a “Brit Different.” We embrace innovation, aim to reduce administrative burdens, increase visibility, and make conventions more accessible to all members. Whether you come every year, have been to a few, or the next one will be your first convention, we are excited for you to join us and enjoy the mission, the camaraderie, and learning more about the DBE from the fellow members you meet.  

Not a member, well, you will find that we love a cup of tea and a chat! Stop by one of our chapters or an afternoon tea to receive a warm welcome from our members and learn why we say, "Not Ourselves But The Cause.” We also have a wonderful podcast that ranges from royal history and vintage fashion to teatime traditions and beloved recipes. Give it a listen!

We're glad you're part of our community—stay connected, reach out with your thoughts, and check back regularly for news and updates. I look forward to meeting you!

Be A Brit Different: Embracing the Future, Honoring the Past

Warmly,
Lynda Krupp
National President of the 36th Administration