In 2000 WATT established a Life of Leadership Award to recognize women in Washington County involved in public service who either had been elected to an office at any level of government, or appointed by a government official to a municipal, county, state or national government Board or Commission. Additionally the honoree’s involvement in community service would be considered. Nominees must also meet an age requirement.
Washington County women have, for years, contributed their time and talents to serve on appointed boards, commissions and as elected officials. This award was viewed as a way to lift up women dedicated to public service who serve as a challenge to other women to become involved in public life.
Thirty-two women have been recognized and honored by WATT over the years. A list of those honored follows:
2000—Jane Burhans, Elizabeth Early, Margaret Comstock
2001—Adele M. Donnelly, Marjorie Grumbacher, Betty L. Shank
2002—Louise F.Beachley, Florence Graff, Lois E. Harrison
2003—Jane L. HJershey, Mildred Myers, Edith Sweigert
2004—B. Marie Byers, Patricia K. Cushwa, Sarre E. “Sally” Fost
2005--Emma Lou Comstock, Carol Moller
2006—Nancy C. Boyer, Florence M. Murdock
2007—Sharon Chirgott, Marjorie Peters
2008—Susanne D. Hayes, Linda Irvin-Craig
2009—Julianna Albowitz, Carolyn W. Brooks
2010—Jan Circincione, Henryetta Livelsberger
2011—N. Sharon Leatherman
2012—Paula Lampton, Judy Lyons Wolf
2013- Joan Knode, Dori Nipps
2014- Judith Ferro McFarland, Shirley Cronise Metz
2015- Deborah Murphy, Barbara Wetzel
2016-Linda M. Smith, Evelyn M. Williams
2017
2018
2019
By authority of WATT, Emma Lou Comstock, Treasurer