The Progressive Women’s Association of Harrison County will recognize ten women of color in conjunction with their Black Culture Month observance.
The luncheon will be held on Friday, February 24 at noon at the Uptown Event Center. Keynote speaker for the event will be Ironda Joyce Campbell.
Rosalyn Queen Alonso, president for the PWA said, “This highly successful program recognizes women from Harrison County who have made a difference in their lives and the lives of the residents by their continued caring and sharing. It is our way of thanking them for their commitment and continued support.”
The following women who will be recognized are: Arissa Smith is a banker and her daily contact with the public makes a difference in helping many individuals. As a member of Mount Zion Church, she ministers to and encourages other individuals on their path way of life.
Catherine Burley is retired from the FBI with 32 years of service. She is involved in many local agencies as a volunteer and she says her expertise is baking and sharing her goodies with the public. She is a graduate of Bay College of Maryland with an Associates Degree in accounting. She has one daughter, Sydney.
Regina Parker is a first time author who resides in Bridgeport. Her children’s book “Can Your Dog Meow?” is for kids of all ages with big hearts. She is a graduate of Fairmont State College and is an advocate and supports Literacy Volunteers in our area. She stresses the importance of parents and children reading together.
Carol Meeks did not let age deter her from achieving her dream. At the age of 54 she earned her degree in early childhood education and today she plays a role in the lives of preschool and kindergarten children. She is active in the program at Bridgeport Methodist Church.
Cydney Cooper can be found daily delivering the news to area residents from her position at WDTV. Cydney completed a dual degree program receiving a Masters in Business and Journalism. Her passion, as she delivers stories and information to her listening public, is evident.
Corliss Hangar Barksdale is married to Benjamin and they are the parents of five children. She is retired from the Harrison County Board of Education where for 26 years she served as a kindergarten aide. Her numerous activities in volunteering for the community have certainly made a difference in the lives of local residents.
Kettera Smith epitomizes the dedicated employee of today. She lives in Bridgeport with her husband Elgie. She has been a dedicated employee in several different departments at the Harrison County Court House for over thirty years. Smith says she has worked hard and tries to instill in the youth of today the importance of achieving your goal by working hard.
Sister Maria Rukwishuro, SJI comes to Clarksburg from Zimbabwe. She is currently the director of Religious Education at Immaculate Conception Church in Clarksburg, a position she has held since 2004. She enjoys working with children and her dedication is evident as we study the many successful programs she heads up at the church. She still has family in Zimbabwe and she returns there to visit them annually.
Jodi Cox has dedicated her professional life to the medical field. She is a graduate of the LPN school at Gore and went on to receive her RN from Regions College in Albany, New York. She is a strong advocate of bedside nursing at the UHC, where she has been an employee since 1988. She is a grandmother and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren. She is a member of the AME Allen Chapel.
Luvina Cuthbert has shared her gift of music with the public for many years. Her soprano voice has entertained many at the local churches as she shares gospel hymns. She is a federal government employee and a member of the Mount Zion Missionary Church.
The luncheon is open to the public, but reservations can be made by calling 304-624-6881. You are encouraged to get your reservations as this is always a sellout event and seating is limited.