Across La Plata County, women are crafting tomorrow’s history today. This March, the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) in Durango celebrates the women shaping our community through three events that honor achievement and build bridges of practical support.
These Women’s History Month events are proudly sponsored by Hutton Broadcasting.
About Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month emerged from a simple truth: extraordinary contributions deserve recognition. What began as a week-long observance in 1982 blossomed into a month-long national celebration by 1987, acknowledging women whose brilliance shapes our world.
The 2025 theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” captures the essence of women who transform knowledge into power and leadership into legacy across every field and discipline.
About the Durango Women’s Resource Center
The Women’s Resource Center stands as Durango’s foundation for individual empowerment. Here, survivors of domestic violence find sanctuary, housing insecurity meets resolution, healthcare becomes accessible, and financial hardship encounters genuine solutions. The WRC transforms crisis into opportunity, creating individualized pathways toward self-sufficiency.
Since opening in 1987, the center has grown from helping 200 women in its first year to assisting more than 1,300 individual women and their families annually, advocating for women and girls throughout La Plata County.
March 2025: Three Events, One Powerful Vision
Local Extraordinary Women Portrait Reception
March 5 | 5 – 6:30 p.m.
Durango Public Library, 1900 E. 3rd Ave.
Free admission
Step into a gallery of change-makers through the lens of photographer Lea Lindsay. Her portraits of this year’s Extraordinary Woman Award nominees capture their stories and how their work embodies the theme of education and inspiration. As you explore, listen to recorded reflections from the nominees and sample appetizers from Nature’s Oasis and Serious Delights Bakery. The exhibition will be on display throughout March.
Womenade
March 12 | 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Public House 701, 701 E. 2nd Ave.
Free admission (Contributions welcome)
Behind every grant of up to $700 stands a woman facing unexpected challenges — a car repair separating her from employment, childcare costs creating impossible choices, or a medical bill pushing stability out of reach. Since 2002, Womenade has channeled over $300,000 directly to more than 650 individuals across La Plata County.
Your contribution transforms immediately into tangible assistance, removing barriers between women and their potential.
WRC’s Extraordinary Woman Award Dinner
March 26 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
DoubleTree, 501 Camino del Rio
$85 per ticket (Purchase in advance as tickets go fast!)
The signature evening of Women’s History Month brings together visionaries and community builders for a night of recognition. Share a meal, hear insights from award recipients and keynote speaker Dr. Karen Cheser, and participate in a silent auction featuring the generosity of local businesses.
This celebration comes to life through collaborations with April’s Garden, Allison Ragsdale Photography, and DoubleTree Durango.
The 2025 Extraordinary Woman Award Winners
Meet the women whose work is redefining our future:
Dr. Heather Shotton
As Fort Lewis College’s Vice President of Diversity Affairs, Dr. Shotton guides the institution through its Reconciliation Process, confronting its boarding school history while creating systems of positive change. Her influence extends nationally, mentoring women of color throughout higher education.
Elizabeth Howe
Elizabeth Howe, Vice President of Business Services at La Plata Electric Association, leads initiatives that elevate safety standards and operational excellence. Beyond corporate walls, her commitment to youth development and economic vitality flows through volunteer work with the Boys & Girls Club, Fort Lewis College, and the Economic Development Alliance.
Angela Fountain
For 15 years, Angela Fountain has cultivated leadership within La Plata County’s 4-H program, empowering young women through STEM engagement, confidence-building, and practical skill development. Her work fosters civic responsibility, promotes communication and problem-solving skills, and lays the foundation for future leaders.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Karen Cheser
Durango School District Superintendent Dr. Cheser brings her perspective on education innovation to the award dinner keynote. Her career-readiness initiatives connect education with workforce development, building pathways, and strengthening the local economy.
Celebrating Women, Inspiring Change
These events showcase the dedication, resilience, and impact of the women building our community. Join us in celebrating their stories and contributions throughout March.
These Women’s History Month events are proudly sponsored by Hutton Broadcasting.
Discover ongoing programs supporting women in our community at the Women’s Resource Center website.
