News Flash

Burlington County Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson announced today that the Burlington County Women’s Advisory Council Members have been appointed for 2020. Historically, the Council was made of up 15-20 women, but this year the number was increased to up to 25 members.

“This year, in an effort to be more inclusive, we expanded the Women’s Council and invited more members to help us reach as many women in Burlington County as possible,” said Freeholder Director Hopson. “We have a lot of initiatives planned for 2020, especially since this year marks the 100^th anniversary of the passage of the 19^th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women’s constitutional right to vote.”

At the Freeholder Public Meeting on Wednesday, January 22, the 2020 Council members were appointed:

• Shirla Simpson
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• Zahirah Sabir
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• Hana Katz
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• Lovepreet Buttar
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• Diane Mills McKay
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• Kelly Clark
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• Sruti Desai
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• Christina Renna
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• Anna Evans
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• Ashanti Holley
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• Michelle Jackson
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• Nikki Moore Samson
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• Mariel Giletto
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• Kimo Thomas-Dennis
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• Jo-Ann Weiner
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• Bridget Wiese 
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• June DePonte Sernak
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• Lisa Killion-Smith
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• Tammie Bathke
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• Julie Deans
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• Gaye Burton
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• Jackie Veasy
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• Jennifer Aydjian

“All of these women are leaders in each of their professions,” added Freeholder Linda Hynes. “We are excited to get to work and deliver new programs to empower the women in our community.”

The Women’s Council is currently seeking nominations for the 2020 Outstanding Women of Burlington County Awards. Applications will be accepted until February 1, 2020 at 4 p.m.

The Council is looking for women who have made significant contributions in their chosen field, as well as having demonstrated their support of women in our community.  Winners will be honored at the annual Outstanding Women of Burlington County Awards Reception on Monday, March 30. 

This year, nominees will be recognized in the following categories: Mentorship, Law, Education, Community Service, Corporate Leadership, Health and Diversity/Inclusion.

The Council is also accepting nominations to recognize and present scholarships to three outstanding 12^th grade female students from Burlington County. The scholarships will include the Alice Paul Champion Award, the Celeste Arties Memorial Award and the Elizabeth Coleman White STEM Award. The Council is awarding three scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to each award recipient.

Guidelines and nomination forms can be obtained by visiting: https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/268/Programs

“We want to hear about all the incredible women leaders here in Burlington County,” concluded Freeholder Hynes. “If you know of a woman who either lives or works in Burlington County who is going above and beyond, please nominate her for this amazing achievement.” 

The Burlington County Women’s Advisory Council works to identify and address issues that affect women in Burlington County, raise public awareness of the special needs and roles of women, provide mentoring opportunities for women, and enhance the quality of life for all women. For more information follow the Council on Facebook at @BurlingtonCountyWomen or visit our website at: http://co.burlington.nj.us/263/Womens-Advisory-Council