Originally Published in the Daily Republic on September 24, 2015 By Ryan McCarthy.
Four Solano County women are among those honored by Rep. John Garamendi at his 2nd Annual Women of the Year Awards.
The event Tuesday at Woodland Community College recognized 35 women in the 3rd Congressional District represented by Garamendi, D-Walnut Grove.
Constance Boulware, city councilwoman for Rio Vista, Jane Johnson, Fairfield community organizer and mental health advocate, Dionne McCullar, Fairfield business leader and community volunteer and Deidre Robinson, Vacaville business leader and mentor, are the Solano County women honored.
“We’re identifying and celebrating women who are outstanding leaders, women who have contributed to the betterment of their communities,” Garamendi said in a press release. “The women we honor come from many backgrounds. Some are mentors in their profession. Others are tireless volunteers for charity. Every single one has made a real difference and transformed lives.”
Women at the Woodland event identified concerns including:
- Rural broadband access and the ability of women to reliably work at home, both in terms of starting their own business and in working in a flexible time arrangement;
- Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields of the study and the need for more mentorship and encouragement from an early age through college;
- Human trafficking and the need to be vigilant when women and children may be victims.
“We’re here to focus on the policies of this nation that provide support and opportunity for women and families,”Garamendi added.“I want to make sure that women are encouraged from an early age to reach their true potential. I think Congress can help more young girls stick with their dreams and pursue a rewarding career in whatever field inspires them.”
Every year Garamendi’s office solicits nominations from the community for women who deserve to be acknowledged for their selfless work.
Reach Ryan McCarthy at 427-6935 or rmccarthy@dailyrepublic.net.