Women+girls (W+g)

Encouraging Women+girls to Strengthen the Spirit of Virginiae

March 6, 2025

This month's First Lady Focus highlights National Eating Disorder Awareness Week through the inspiring journey of Caroline Cook, a survivor and advocate. If you or someone you know is struggling, visit nationaleatingdisorders.org or text "NEDA" to 741741 for support.

W+g Wellbeing

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin presenting the first 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award to The Gloucester Institute in Gloucester, Va .

Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin presented the first 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award during Black History Month to The Gloucester Institute, recognizing its dedication to developing future leaders and expanding educational and economic opportunities for young professionals.



Located in Gloucester County, The Gloucester Institute provides a space for mentorship, leadership training, and civil discourse. Through its programs, young minds from diverse backgrounds are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to become catalysts for change in their communities.

The Spirit of Virginia Award honors organizations and individuals across the Commonwealth who strengthen Virginia’s communities through service, innovation, and leadership. The Gloucester Institute’s work exemplifies this mission, investing in the future by empowering young leaders.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Youngkin Present the Second 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award to New Creation VA

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin presenting the second 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award to New Creation VA in Harrisonburg, Va .

Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin presented the second 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award to New Creation VA, honoring its work in combating human trafficking through education, survivor support, and economic empowerment.

Founded in Harrisonburg, New Creation VA partners with over 200 organizations worldwide to provide survivors with fair-trade job opportunities and raise awareness about trafficking prevention. The organization operates a local shop offering products made by survivors, using commerce as a tool for change.



The Spirit of Virginia Award recognizes individuals and organizations strengthening communities across the Commonwealth. New Creation VA’s mission to equip, educate, and empower survivors embodies this spirit, making a lasting impact both locally and globally.

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin with the New Creation VA team, board members, and legislators in Harrisonburg, Va .

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin at the second 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award to New Creation VA in Harrisonburg, Va .

First Lady’s Women+girls (W+g) Sisterhood Tour Kicks Off in Ashburn

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with girls in attendance at her first Women +girls (W+g) Sisterhood Tour in Ashburn, Va.

The annual Women+girls (W+g) Sisterhood Tour launched in Ashburn, VA, bringing together women and girls for an evening of inspiration, connection, and support during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

Secretary of Health and Human Resources, Janet Kelly, highlighted the Youngkin Administration’s commitment to expanding mental health resources and prioritizing youth well-being. Caroline B. Cook, author of Hungry, shared her powerful story of faith, resilience, and recovery, encouraging attendees to embrace hope and seek support.

More than 200 attendees engaged with state resource tables featuring:

✔️ Virginia Has Jobs

✔️ Mental health services

✔️ Small business support

✔️ Virginia Veteran and Family Support

✔️ Volunteer opportunities

✔️ Job opportunities

Want to Attend a Sisterhood Event?

For information on an upcoming Sisterhood Tour event in your area, email firstlady@governor.virginia.gov.

Women+girls (W+g) Sisterhood Tour Continues in Dumfries

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with members of the Potomac Valley Church at her second Women + girls (W+g) event in Dumfries, Va.

The Women+girls (W+g) Sisterhood Tour made its second stop at Potomac Valley Church, focusing on faith, resilience, and mental health support during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

Dr. Alexis Aplasca, Virginia’s Chief Clinical Officer for Behavioral Health, highlighted Right Help, Right Now, ensuring families can access critical mental health resources. Caroline B. Cook, author of Hungry, shared her journey of struggle, recovery, and hope.

Attendees connected with state resources including Right Help, Right Now, Virginia Veteran and Family Support, Serve Virginia, and Virginia Works.

Need Support?

📞 National Eating Disorder Helpline: 1-800-931-2237

📞 Virginia’s Crisis Services: Dial 9-8-8

The Sisterhood Tour continues to uplift women and girls across Virginia, providing inspiration and access to life-changing resources.

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with Dr. Alexis Aplasca and author Caroline Cook at her second Women + girls (W+g) event in Dumfries, Va.

Across commonwealth communities, countless individuals grapple with eating disorders — complex health conditions that often remain hidden. Nationally, approximately 28.8 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime, with these disorders affecting 9% of the U.S. population.



In Virginia, this translates to hundreds of thousands of our neighbors, friends, and family members facing eating disorder challenges daily. What’s more, eating disorders — including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder — have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin Joins Prince William County Leaders to Address Fentanyl Crisis

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with Prince William County leaders and first responders at her recent It Only Takes One event in Prince William County, Va.

As part of her It Only Takes One initiative, First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin met with Prince William County leaders, first responders, educators, and health professionals to address the ongoing fentanyl crisis.

Participants heard from Virginia Fentanyl Family Ambassador, Delaine Mazich, and Dr. Alexis Aplasca, Senior Clinical Advisor for Right Help, Right Now, who provided insight into prevention efforts and the Governor’s Right Help, Right Now behavioral health initiative.

While Virginia has seen a reduction in overdose deaths, Prince William County continues to face significant challenges. The discussion focused on prevention, education, and access to life-saving resources to help combat this crisis.

Take Action

✅ Learn more & start the conversation: ItOnlyTakesOne.Virginia.Gov

✅ Get trained to administer naloxone: vdh.virginia.gov/naloxone

✅ Read the full press release: [Insert link here]

By working together, we can save lives and protect our communities from the devastating impact of fentanyl.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin invites individuals and congregations across Virginia to participate in Virginia Pray Now (VPN) calls. VPN is the Virginia chapter of America Pray Now, a monthly virtual gathering dedicated to praying for secretariats and initiatives within the state government. The First Lady emphasizes the importance of prayer as a powerful foundation during this administration’s final year in office.

To learn more and sign up for virtual and in-person events, visit americapraynow.com/virginia.

For additional information, you can contact Hanna Alway at hannaalway@americapraynow.com.



Through Virginia Pray Now, the First Lady encourages Virginians to join together in prayer and make faith a central part of the year ahead.

First Lady Joins Virginia Academy for Youth Mental Health Discussion

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with Virginia Academy students at Virginia Academy in Ashburn, Va.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin visited Virginia Academy for a school-wide assembly on youth mental health during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

Caroline B. Cook, author of Hungry, shared her journey of overcoming an eating disorder, encouraging students to embrace self-worth and seek support.

Secretary Janet Kelly discussed Virginia’s commitment to youth mental health and available statewide resources for families. Dr. Alexis Aplasca, Virginia’s Chief Clinical Officer for Behavioral Health, highlighted the connection between mental health and eating disorders, stressing early intervention.

The First Lady led a panel discussion and student Q&A, fostering open conversations on mental wellness and community support.

Need Support?

📞 National Eating Disorders Helpline: 1-800-931-2237

📞 Virginia’s Crisis Services: Dial 9-8-8

🌐 Learn more: hhr.virginia.gov

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin Encourages Mentorship and Goal-Setting in Petersburg

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with Executive Mansion Deputy Director Rosa and mentees in Petersburg, Va.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin visited Blandford Academy in Petersburg, VA, for a mentoring program focused on empowerment and goal-setting. As part of the event, young women participated in a vision board activity, encouraging them to dream big, set goals, and take steps toward their futures.

In recognition of Black History Month, Executive Mansion Deputy Director Rosa shared her personal journey, emphasizing how hard work and perseverance open doors to success. She also brought sweet treats from The Sweetest Thing Bakery, celebrating Black women in business and entrepreneurship.



By fostering mentorship and sisterhood, these young women are gaining the support, confidence, and inspiration to pursue their dreams and build bright futures.

W+g Workforce

Team Youngkin Hits the Court for a Cause: Supporting VCU Massey Cancer Center in Honor of Sarah

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with Sarah and her family at the 17th Annual VCU Massey Cancer Capitol Square Basketball Classic in Richmond, Va.

For the fourth year in a row, Team Youngkin hit the court for the 17th Annual VCU Massey Cancer Capitol Square Basketball Classic. Helping raise over $50,000 for VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Team Youngkin contributed over $20,000!

This year’s game was especially meaningful as it honored Sarah, a valued Youngkin administration member bravely fighting Metastatic Thyroid Cancer.



Thank you to everyone who played and donated, and prayers over all those battling cancer and the brave practitioners who support them. 

First Lady Welcomes Virginia General Assembly Page Program to the Executive Mansion

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with female members of the Virginia General Assembly Page Program at the Executive Mansion in Richmond, Va.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin met with the Virginia General Assembly Page Program leads before hosting a special reception at the Executive Mansion for all Senate and House Pages.

For decades, the Page Program has provided Virginia’s youth with hands-on experience in state government, fostering independence, responsibility, and civic engagement. The Governor and First Lady are grateful for these young leaders from across the Commonwealth who dedicate their time to public service.



To learn more about the Virginia General Assembly Page Program, visit virginiageneralassembly.gov.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin Celebrates Female Legislators with Virginia General Assembly Valentines

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent and Delegate Anne Ferrell Tata in the General Assembly Building in Richmond, Va.

In a heartfelt tribute to the women serving in the Virginia General Assembly, First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin delivered special Valentine’s Day cards to female legislators, recognizing their dedication to the Commonwealth.



With women now making up 35% of the General Assembly, more are serving than ever before—shaping policies, advocating for communities, and working tirelessly for Virginia families. The First Lady expressed gratitude for their leadership and commitment, celebrating their role in making Virginia stronger.

Fatherhood Focus

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin in front of the George Washington statue inside. the Capitol Rotunda in Richmond, Va.

February 22nd marked the birthday of George Washington, a leader whose strength, integrity, and vision helped shape our nation. Known as the Father of Our Country, Washington’s legacy is one of dedication, perseverance, and service—values that continue to inspire fathers and mentors across Virginia today.

In recognizing Washington’s impact, we also celebrate the work of Friends of the Washington Statue, an organization committed to preserving the history and heritage of our nation’s first president. Their efforts ensure that Washington’s story remains alive for future generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for his leadership and the principles he championed.



Just as Washington’s leadership helped lay the foundation for the nation, fathers and mentors play a crucial role in guiding the next generation, providing strength, wisdom, and encouragement. His legacy reminds us of the profound influence that strong leadership—both at home and in our communities—can have on shaping the future.

To learn more about Friends of the Washington Statue and their work in honoring Washington’s legacy, visit https://washingtonstatue.org/.

Governor Glenn Youngkin Unveils "Virginia Has Jobs" Initiative: An Open Door to New Opportunities

#HomeHistory

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin with the Hampton University Concert Choir at the Executive Mansion in Richmond, Va.

This February The First Lady, Governor Glenn Youngkin and nearly 200 guests at a reception commemorating Black History Month were welcomed with powerful harmonies that celebrated the legacy, resilience, and brilliance of Black history.

The Hampton University Concert Choir delivered an unforgettable performance, reminding us of the rich #homehistory of our Commonwealth’s HBCUs. Thank you to Hampton University’s Concert Choir and Director Omar Dickenson for sharing your talents with us! Click here to listen to a snippet of the moving performance.

Spotlight on Virginia Commission for the Arts Commissioners

The Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA) is celebrating the incredible leadership and expertise of its nine Commissioners with a newly launched “Meet Your Commissioner” series!

Now live on the VCA website, these beautifully designed one-pagers highlight the deep well of knowledge, experience, and passion these Commissioners bring to Virginia’s arts community. The series will also roll out on social media, with a new Commissioner featured each day, offering a closer look at their work and impact.

To learn more about the Commissioners and their contributions, visit https://vca.virginia.gov/.

Boards and Commissions Openings

To explore and apply for opportunities to serve on one of Virginia's Boards or Commissions, please visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.

Sisterhood Spotlight

Alicia S. Atkins

Henrico County School Board Member

Alicia S. Atkins is a dedicated public servant and trailblazing leader. A proud graduate of Highland Springs High School and California Coast University, she is a devoted wife of over 20 years and a mother of three. Professionally, she serves as a Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention trainer with Virginia Commonwealth University and a service support provider for the DeafBlind with the Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

In 2019, Mrs. Atkins shattered barriers and made history as the first Black woman elected to the Henrico County School Board, proudly representing the Varina District—the very community where she was raised, educated, and continues to call home. Her leadership and commitment to inclusive policies earned her a resounding re-election victory in 2023 with 73% of the vote. That same year, she was elected Vice-Chair of the School Board, marking another historic milestone as the first Black woman to serve in that role.

In 2024, Mrs. Atkins broke yet another barrier when she was unanimously elected as the first Black woman to serve as Chair of the Henrico County School Board. Throughout her tenure, she has championed initiatives that promote educational equity, environmental sustainability, and student-centered policies, reinforcing her reputation as a dedicated and transformative leader.

Now, in 2025, she is poised to expand her impact at the state level as a candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates in the 81st District. Her platform prioritizes education, the environment, and empowerment, with a steadfast commitment to wellness—mentally, physically, and spiritually—human dignity, and leadership accountability. Grounded in the belief that people should come before profit and power, she is determined to drive meaningful policy change in Virginia’s General Assembly.

Learn more about Alicia, here

The First Lady routinely engages with nonprofits serving the needs of Virginians across the Commonwealth. Check out some of the organizations she has connected with recently!

Creatures + Creations

Creature Corner

Pictured: First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin with one of the shelter animals outside the General Assembly Building in Richmond, Va.

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin stopped by to visit shelter animals outside the General Assembly Building, recently relocated to Virginia after the California wildfires.



These rescued pets traveled across the country in search of safety and new homes, thanks to the efforts of animal rescue organizations and shelters. The First Lady’s visit highlighted the importance of adoption, fostering, and supporting animal welfare.

On the Wall

The women of HARP at Chesterfield County Jail and Tri-Hope Life Ministries collaborate on an acrylic painting, Hope. Photo courtesy of Beth Scolaro.

The Art Experience at the Executive Mansion aims to make connections that educate, excite and inspire those who visit. A dynamic exhibit, the Art Experience highlights Virginia artists by featuring special exhibitions throughout the year considering historic commemorations and monthly celebrations.

In light of Black History Month, the Executive Mansion showcased the work of Richmond based artist Stanley Rayfield. Stanley’s pieces “Church Hat No. 61” and “The Kingdom Movement” were on display at the Mansion throughout the month of February.

Visit the Executive Mansion this March to view Hope, a collaborative painting made by the women of HARP at Chesterfield County Jail and Tri-Hope Life Ministries in honor of Women’s History Month.

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