1912 — GFWC creates a Peace Committee within the Federation's Education Department. Under the leadership of California clubwoman Ione Cowles, GFWC emphasizes the need to support community peace initiatives and provide resources for club peace programs. By the June 1916 GFWC Biennial Convention, at which Ione Cowles is elected GFWC President, most State Federations have active peace committees. GFWC continues to promote peace until America is drawn into the world conflict in February 1917. Immediately after President Wilson's announcement that diplomatic relations with Germany had been severed, GFWC responds with a telegram of support: "The General Federation of Women's Clubs stands loyally behind the government. It is our desire to serve the nation to the best of our ability."