Local Leaders Featured in Commission on the Status of Women Meeting

A panel discussion among four Ruth Wicker Award recipients highlights the next meeting of the City's Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), which begins at 5:30 pm on Thursday, March 19, in the Yvonne Johnson Event Center, 1502 Barber Park Dr. The program is the latest in the commission's LeadHERship through Service series.

CSW Chair Pamelia McAdoo-Rogers facilitates the conversation with Real Life, Inc. founder Starleana Green, former Greensboro mayor and City Councilmember Nancy Vaughan, Focus Estate Solutions Senior Partner Julia Walker, and Girl Talk International Founder Rachel Wilson. The women will discuss their respective professional journeys and share tips for a successful career, including their 2025 induction into the Ruth Wicker Tribute to Women.

Green has spent over two decades empowering others and giving back to the community. She founded Real Life, Inc., a local nonprofit that provides financial assistance, educational resources, and referrals to local families and single parents. Her work has focused on strengthening community support systems and promoting self-sufficiency for those in need.

Greensboro's mayor from 2013-2025, Vaughan also served as Greensboro's Mayor Pro Tem and on its City Council, dating back to 1997. A member of several community boards, Vaughan has supported economic development, established community partnerships, and emphasized workforce opportunities that benefit Greensboro's residents.

Walker is a senior partner at Focus Estate Solutions, where she provides estate planning services. She is a mentor and active participant with Campus Greensboro and synerG, local organizations dedicated to developing young professionals. Walker also created a YouTube video to increase public understanding of estate planning.

A recording artist, motivational speaker, and life coach, Wilson co-pastors The Center in Greensboro in addition to her role with Girl Talk International, the faith-based nonprofit organization she started in 2009 to empower and inspire women. She has impacted many through her gospel music and inspirational videos.

Created through a donation from Ruth Wicker's estate, the Tribute to Women was established in 2019 to honor the contributions and achievements of Greensboro women. The free exhibit resides in the Yvonne Johnson Event Center and is open most Tuesdays from 10 am to 2 pm. Learn more and see the list of honorees on the City's website.

CSW's mission is to improve the quality of life for women in Greensboro. Learn about the commission at https://www.greensboro-nc.gov/csw. Contact Belonging & Engagement Specialist Vonda Wingate in the Human Rights Department at 336-373-2995 for more information.