Women are… strong, resilient, visionary and empowering. These four words frequently describe the many influential women who have shaped our country. During Women’s History Month, we often focus on national figures who have made history, but what about the women making a difference every day right here in the Mount Vernon District?

Our office works closely with many dedicated and strong female leaders in local civic associations. Katherine Ward, Co-Chair of the Mount Vernon Council of Citizens’ Associations (MVCCA), is a powerhouse advocate and resident who has served on the Council since 2007.

You’ll often find her juggling responsibilities at both the MVCCA and Potomac Riverkeeper Network tables in our Town Meeting exhibit hall, while championing important community needs. The MVCCA board is also led by many incredible women like Judy Harbeck (Co-Chair), Tamara Srader (Secretary), Cathy Hosek (Education Chair), Bindu Mathur (Planning & Zoning Chair), Ellen Young (Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation Rep) and Marty Lowery (Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Associations Rep). Marty also dedicates her time in our office, assisting with events and helping to research information for special projects throughout the District. In Lorton, Wendy Henley, President and Education Committee Chair of the South County Federation, works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all residents and to help create a sense of community in South County. Her longtime commitment to community service continues to have a lasting, positive impact across the region.

Then there are the many women we see day in and day out during election season. If you’ve ever voted early at the Mount Vernon Governmental Center or visited our farmers market, chances are you’ve met Jessica Nichols (Mount Vernon Dems) and Valerie Wohlleben (Fairfax GOP). Whether it’s raining, snowing or a perfect sunny day, they’re outside talking to voters, registering new ones, answering questions and ensuring that every voice is heard.

Beyond these amazing women are countless federal workers, teachers, social workers, stay-at-home and working moms, small business owners and CEOs who are shaping our community, lifting others up and inspiring those around them. If you would like to read more stories of local women making a difference, the County has highlighted several female leaders, including my Chief of Staff, Christine Morin. Check out their stories here: Women’s History Month 2025.

But women’s history isn’t just for March. I encourage you to visit the Suffragist Memorial at Occoquan Regional Park or the Lucy Burns Museum at the Workhouse Arts Center to honor the women who fought for the right to vote. Explore George Washington’s Mount Vernon and see firsthand the remarkable preservation efforts of The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association.

However you choose to celebrate, there are countless ways to recognize and appreciate the contributions of women throughout the year. Learn more: https://www.fxva.com/herstory/

Wendy Henley

Katherine Ward

Cathy Hosek

Judy Harbeck

Tamara Srader

Valerie Wohlleben

Marty Lowery