Leadership is often associated with the ability to guide, motivate and influence others, but for the women leaders in Fredericksburg, there’s another component of true leadership: service.

 

Each year, the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce honors thoughtful leadership through the Laurie A. Wideman Enterprising Woman’s Award, recognizing women in our region for professional achievement, community service and integrity.

 

Since its inception in 2010, the award has celebrated local women whose work extends beyond their titles, who shape our city in ways both visible and unseen.

 

Honoring Those Who Give Back

 

 

Dr. Denise Willis, executive director of The Healing Station, a foundation expanding access to mental and behavioral health services, said the award reflects the collective work that shapes our area.

 

“The Laurie A. Wideman Award reinforces the value of collaboration, working alongside community partners, local leaders and organizations who share a commitment to wellness and equity,” she said.

 

Dr. Willis was one of two Laurie A. Wideman honorees in 2025, alongside Leigh Anne Van Doren, whose work includes founding Fredericksburg Parent & Family Magazine, launching FXBG Advance and leading Fredericksburg Parent Gives, which expands resources for local families.

 

 Barbara Gustavson

Barbara Gustavson, the 2023 award honoree and owner of Discover Next Step, a business focused on brain health for leaders, caregivers and healthcare professionals, also echoed the idea of collaboration and community.

 

“It reminds me that the work we do to care for others, build resilience and lead with intention truly matters, even when it’s not always visible,” Gustavson said.

 

Anne Overington, the 2024 award honoree and the owner of The Overington Team, a mother–daughter residential real estate team, shared a similar sentiment.

 

“I didn't succeed alone. It was a community effort, and the reward is beyond measure,” Overington said.

 

Leading to Serve

 

For these women leaders, what drives their work is not recognition but the purpose to serve.

 Tamny Reid 

“At the core of everything I do is people. What drives my passion is knowing that what I do can truly make a difference in someone’s life,” said Tammy Reid, business development at Union Home Mortgage and the 2021 award honoree. “It’s not about one moment. It’s about a continued commitment to pouring into the community that has given so much to me.”

 

For Ginni Matern, owner of Matern Staffing and the 2022 award honoree, building connections is what motivates her.

 

“I truly enjoy helping companies navigate growth, solve challenges and feel supported within our community,” Matern said. “What drives me most is seeing those connections turn into opportunities for businesses, for individuals and for our region…being part of that journey is one of the most rewarding aspects of what I do.”

 

Family as Foundation

 

These women aren’t just successful leaders, they’re also moms who cite faith and family as the cornerstone for both their personal and professional lives.

 

“Family is my foundation; it’s where I find strength, encouragement and balance,” said Dr. Willis. Overington describes her family as her rock, while Matern noted, “Outside of work, my family is everything to me.”

 

The award honorees know that leadership is rooted in confidence, authenticity and growth, even when it feels uncomfortable. Surrounding yourself with supportive people and staying true to your values is key.

 

“Be confident in who you are and the unique perspective you bring,” said Dr. Willis. Matern advised, “Surround yourself with people who truly support you, believe in you and cheer you on no matter what,” while Reid added, “Never underestimate the power of kindness and perseverance.”

 

Impact That Lasts

 

Through service and leadership, these women continue to make a lasting impact on the Fredericksburg community. A legacy of which Wideman would be proud.

 

Janel Donohue, CEO of J Donohue Leadership & Consulting, former president of Rappahannock United Way and the inaugural award recipient, knew Laurie A. Wideman personally.

 

“I am proud to say that I think we are continuing to make Laurie proud,” Donohue said. “She would be so proud of all the women who are making a big difference in their communities, organizations, nonprofits and families.”

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