Richland County Council recognizes 14 women for roles in the community
March 24, 2016
Richland County Councilwomen Joyce Dickerson and Julie-Ann Dixon recognized 14 women for being “trailblazers and true change agents” during a luncheon today at the Township Auditorium.
Dozens of people attended the second annual Richland County Distinguished Women’s Awards Luncheon to celebrate the contributions of the honorees to the community.
“Ladies, today is our day, this month is our month, the last century and half has been our time,” said Councilwoman Julie-Ann Dixon, District 9. “Women have made and are continuing to make great strides throughout the world and today we are recognizing those women that have changed the rhythm of our beat here in Richland County.
“To the ‘Distinguished Women’ in this room, today is your day to be honored, recognized and woven into the fabric our history.”
The eight award recipients were chosen from among more than 20 applicants. The 2016 honorees are:
- Bonita Miller
- Margaret Sumpter
- Carolyn Cliett
- Vernetha Wannamaker
- Kathleen Williams
- Mildred Knighter
- Andrea Hannah-Dennis
- Bridget Deline
“We are overjoyed and so humbled by this opportunity to celebrate the progression and transformation of the women in our community,” said Councilwoman Joyce Dickerson, District 2. “This moment allows us to take a moment and celebrate us.
“This room is filled with what many may say are ordinary women, but you are doing extraordinary things.”
Dickerson and Dixon also selected six women to honor for their contributions to society in specialized areas:
- Catherine Davis, Distinguished Community Leadership Award for Service
- Dr. Linda Kershaw, Distinguished Community Leadership Award for Education
- Mariquita McKnight, Distinguished Community Leadership Award for Community Activism
- Lt. Heidi Jackson, Distinguished Community Leadership Award for Justice
- Dr. Leslie Hodges-Jackson, Distinguished Community Leadership Award for Medicine
- Dr. Eloise Denson, special Council District 2 recognition for dedication and commitment to helping to improve the lives of others
