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
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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