Stockton, CA – On February 15, ten remarkable women from San Joaquin County will be honored at the prestigious Susan B. Anthony Awards, marking the event's 48th anniversary. Set to take place at the Hilton Stockton, this annual ceremony celebrates the contributions of women across various sectors in the community, embodying the spirit of Susan B. Anthony, a pioneering advocate for women's rights.
The Susan B. Anthony Awards, named after the iconic women's suffrage movement leader, recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the county in 16 different categories, including education, community service, government, politics, media, science, and women's rights. The awards are a testament to Anthony's legacy, as she fought tirelessly for women's right to vote, a milestone achieved fourteen years posthumously in 1920.
This year's event is particularly special as it resumes after a hiatus in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The awards are organized by the San Joaquin County Commission on the Status of Women, an entity founded by Beverly Fitch McCarthy, who envisioned a platform to honor women's achievements in the county.
Among the awardees is Diane Marek Oren, a dedicated educator with over 51 years of service, recognized for her contributions to education. Oren's commitment extends beyond the classroom; she has actively worked on revitalizing the San Joaquin County Commission on the Status of Women and chaired the awards ceremony for the past four years.
Other honorees include Dr. Mary Lomax Ghirarduzzi, celebrated for her role in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of the Pacific, and Dr. Nancy Young, the first woman mayor of Tracy, recognized for her extensive volunteer work and leadership in government and politics.
The awards shine a light on the diverse ways these women impact their communities, from leading nonprofits and educational initiatives to volunteering and driving social change. Their work demonstrates the profound influence women have in shaping the future of San Joaquin County and beyond.
As the community gathers to celebrate these ten outstanding women, the Susan B. Anthony Awards continue to inspire and encourage future generations to lead with courage, compassion, and dedication. This event not only honors individual achievements but also highlights the collective power of women to make a difference in the world around them.
For more information on the awards and the honorees, community members are encouraged to engage with the event and support the recognition of women's contributions to San Joaquin County.