The holiday season is the time to appreciate those near and dear, but it is also the time of year for the Stanislaus County Commission for Women to accept nominations to honor females in the community for their year-round exemplary service.
Since 1980, each year a handful of select local women receive the Outstanding Women awards from the Commission, an independent organization committed to prompting an awareness of issues pertaining to women. Devoted to developing the potential of all women, the Commission administers several awards to recognize varying contributions from those in the community.
"There are many women who do great things, but fly under the radar, and this is a great opportunity to highlight what they do for the community and for others," said President of the Board Nancy Fisher.
The Commission administers several awards including a posthumous Woman of History recognition, Outstanding Young Woman for high school seniors to age 24, the Woman Living Pioneer for achievements predating the establishment of the Commission in 1979, and the Outstanding Woman award to honor an individual's services to the community.
"We really encourage people to nominate women that have had a positive impact on women and children's rights. Those who have gone above and beyond what their job requires," said Fisher.
Those interested in nominating someone for the Outstanding Woman award can access the form online at www.stanislauswomen.org. Nominations must be postmarked or delivered by email no later than Jan. 9, 2015. Awards will be presented on March 14, 2015.
Previous awardees include:
• 2014 Outstanding Women Honorees
Carolina Gutierrez Alfaro
Lori Aderholt
Rapunzel Amador Lewis
Birgit Fladager
Patricia Hughes
Maria Jaime
Sheree Lustgarten
Dr. Priti Modi
Carmen Morad
Heather Sherburn
Kate Trompetter
Barbara Vallo England

• 2014 Young Women Honorees
Alondra Avila-Diaz
Cierra Booz

• 2014 Outstanding Women of History
Laura C.C. Petersen

• 2012 Living Pioneer
Marilyn Menzies Ulm