Welcome to the West Virginia Women's Commission
Jill Upson, Executive Director
Our Mission
Elevating the power and potential of West Virginia women and girls.
Our Vision
All women and girls in West Virginia will thrive and have social, political and economic equality.
Our Objectives
- Advance the economic status, health, safety, education, leadership, and advocacy of state women.
- Develop, publish, and distribute informative and statistical data about and for the women of West Virginia.
- Develop recommendations about and for legislation affecting women. Work with other state agencies and nonprofit groups to develop statewide educational and awareness forums.
- Sponsor workshops that enhance the knowledge, skills, and legal rights of women.
- Seek partnerships with government agencies, nonprofit groups, and private businesses to contribute information, expertise, volunteers, money, or other resources to the goals and work of the Commission.
- Foster women's health and wellness including economic, education, political, and social development through advocacy, research, education, collaboration and recognition
- Promote the empowerment and equality of all West Virginia women to ensure their full participation in society
Our Operations
The Women’s Commission focuses on projects in the broad categories of leadership, legislation, recognition, research, and education. We sponsor annual events for women and girls that teach advocacy, encourage involvement in the legislative process, and provide information on educational opportunities for women.
2024 Legacy of Women Awards Ceremony
The 2024 Legacy of Women Awards is to be held in August in conjunction with WV Women's Equality Day celebrating when women were guranteed a right to vote.
The West Virginia Women’s Commission is the host of the Legacy of Women Awards. These prestigious awards are given to women who have participated in shaping the state or the nation and our role models as women achievers for tomorrow’s female leaders. The awards are named for outstanding women in West Virginia’s history.
2024 Women’s and Girls’ Day
The 2024 Women's and Girls' Day is a full day, in-person event that will be held at the West Virginia Culture Center on March 5, 2024. Registration is required and may be completed online or by calling 304-356-2023.
Click here to access the digital program.