
The Howard County Commission for Women was established by statute in 1980 to promote the economic, social and political equality of women. The Commission has the authority to conduct studies, review progress, recommend action, and carry out activities to support this purpose. This may include:
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Collecting, analyzing and disseminating information to assist in changing attitudes and eliminating discriminatory behavior
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Studying conditions which demonstrate inequalities and unmet needs concerning women, issuing position papers, and recommending procedures or legislation to remedy them
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Stimulating efforts to expand educational and employment opportunities for women
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Promoting recognition of women’s accomplishments
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Publicizing activities and services of interest to women
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Women's History Month Essay Contest Winners
Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 Women's History Month contest, whose thought-provoking essays reflected the 2025 theme, Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.
- Sravika Bolla, 1st Place, Mt. Hebron High School
- Dev Gadhia, 2nd Place, Marriotts Ridge High School
- Noelle Warner, 1st Place, Patuxent Valley Middle School
- Aubrey Cyriaque, 2nd Place, Patuxent Valley Middle School

Women's History Month Poster Contest Winners
Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 Women's History Month poster contest, whose creative designs reflected the 2025 theme, Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations:
- Anika Verma - 1st Place, Howard High School, Grade 10 (Poster pictured)
- London Mason - 2nd Place, The Mandala School, Grade 9
- Safa Ikram - 1st Place, Dunloggin Middle School, Grade 7
- Chrisette Tawiah - 2nd Place, Murray Hill Middle School, Grade 8
- Kona Olowokakoko - 1st Place, Thunder Hill Elementary School, Grade 4
- Bryna Vernon - 2nd Place, The Mandala School. Grade 4

Commission Information
Meeting Schedule
The Commission for Women meets on the third Wednesday of every month, from 7 to 9 p.m. Meetings are currently being held virtually via Microsoft Teams. To join the meeting:
Meeting ID: 275 298 570 17 / Passcode: Lj7av2dH
Board Members
The Commission is comprised of twelve members, including one high school student, who are appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. Current members are:
- Diana Awed
- Dr. Homayara Aziz
- Saundra V. Barrett
- Mae Beale (Acting Chair)
- Hannah Chang
- Kristen Layman Mahoney (Vice Chair)
- Reychal Lynn Windham
- Shannon Beasley Taitt (Secretary)
Staff
- Executive Secretary: Michelle Henry (Acting)
Commission for Women Report 2019 - 2023
This seven-page report highlights the Commission’s priorities, key actions and impact in our community from 2019-2023.

Meeting Agendas & Minutes
2025
2024
December 2024
November 2024
October 2024
September 2024
April 2024
- Agenda
- Meeting Minutes
March 2024
February 2024
January 2024