Woodgrove for Women has quickly become a prominent women-led force in the Woodgrove community. The club recently gained traction for their eye-catching “I love women” merchandise and engaging school events. They have held bake sales, a women-owned small business showcase, and even a viewing of the 2023 film Barbie. While celebrating their successes from this past year, they are also planning for the future ahead.
Founded in 2021, the club creates awareness for women’s issues within Loudoun County Public Schools. Today, its efforts are spearheaded by President Lily McBride and Vice President Cadence McGrath, both current seniors, along with an all-women executive board. McGrath, a founding member of the club, stated “I loved the mission Woodgrove for Women had, so I was happy to join when it began.” Since its formation, Woodgrove for Women has continued to stand by its original goals of fostering an inclusive and educational environment for students and faculty alike.
Although a fairly recent addition to Woodgrove, the club has had tremendous success so far. In support of local students, Woodgrove for Women hosted a woman-owned small business showcase in December of 2022. This allowed student business owners to sell their products and donate a portion of their profits in support of the club. Candles, jewelry, and Woodgrove for Women’s signature bracelets and buttons were hit products over the duration of the showcase.
Woodgrove for Women has shifted some of their focus to larger causes as well. “We want to combat a wide variety of problems… the only way to succeed in this is through research and pursuit,” McGrath explained. One of the many organizations they supported this year was The Ladies Board, a Loudoun-based group that fundraises money for Inova Loudoun Hospital. This October, they hosted their 84th Annual Ladies Board Rummage Sale. Several Woodgrove for Women members volunteered in the fall, aiding a cause that raised over $269,000 in total sales this year.
The club has accumulated many new members in recent months. By creating student engagement with fun events like their Barbie movie night in November, they succeeded in gathering the attention of the class of 2027, as well as returning students. Their executive officers, many of whom are seniors, are now looking at how the future of Woodgrove for Women will play out. Having held the position of finance director for the past two years, senior Mimi Forrester discussed her goals for the coming year. “I expect the club to go on to connect many generations of female Woodgrove students.” She expressed her confidence in the club’s outreach, sharing, “I hope the club continues to grow in 2024, just the way it did this year.”
Woodgrove for Women has no intention of standing still. Whether it be through the support of global causes or small initiatives, the club hopes to inspire fellow students in Loudoun County and beyond.
