Charleston Job Corps held a virtual Women’s History Program to honor the many achievements of West Virginia Women both past and present with the help of Julie Palas, Interim Executive Director for the West Virginia Women’s Commission.

Our speaker of the hour, Mayor, Amy Goodwin, tells of her legacy of empowering women by being the first female Mayor of West Virginia. She says, while campaigning, her mission became clear. Young women must know they are able to achieve anything they desire.
Goodwin also reflects on her grandmother, another West Virginia history trailblazer. Beth Francis O’Donnell-Blatnik, who was the first female State Senator of West Virginia.

During her younger years, Mayor Goodwin spent time with her grandmother on campaigns. She remembers being in parades and coming to Charleston, staying in the Marriott Hotel, etc… However, she never dreamed she would run for office.

Our US Senator, Shelley Moore-Capito as well as West Virginia House Delegate, Daniel Walker, also joined the occasion. Each shared inspiring messages to our staff and students via pre-recorded messages.
Women’s History Program1