North Coast California News

On March 13, Assemblymember Laurie Davies recognized 28 women from Orange County as nominees for the 2025 Women of the Year program. The event took place at The Tea House on Los Rios in San Juan Capistrano and highlighted the contributions of women from California's 74th Assembly District.

The Woman of the Year program honors women across California who have made significant impacts within their communities. Since its inception, it has served as a platform to showcase women's achievements and highlight their roles in shaping the state's social, cultural, and economic landscape.

During the ceremony, Assemblymember Davies expressed her gratitude to the nominees. "To all the nominated women, I want to extend my deepest gratitude. Your work and contributions do not go unnoticed," she said. "The passion with which you serve our communities ignites hope and drives progress, making our world a better place day by day."

Six honorees received Assembly Resolutions for their dedication and influence. Arika Ferguson was awarded the Community Impact Award for supporting military families; Donna Kalez received the Excellence in Business Award for her impact on local businesses; Janet Siegel was honored with the Community Service Extraordinaire Award for preserving San Juan Capistrano's history; Julie Schoen received the Service to Seniors Award for advocating for seniors; Michele Leonhart was recognized with the Legacy of Leadership and Service Award for her commitment against drug abuse; and Vicki Patterson received the Excellence in Environmental Stewardship award.

Certificates of Recognition were also presented to members from Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, and Laguna Niguel. Honorees included Hydee Riggs, Patricia Short, Lauren Becker, Kirsten Donald from Dana Point; Emerald Archer, Susan Dixon, Debbie Hansen-Bosse, Sarah Klingler, Karen Prescott-Loeffler, Petti Van Rekom, Jane Wahl from San Clemente; Julie Ryan Johnson and Stacie Weaver from San Juan Capistrano; Shirin Behzadi, Melissa Caldwell, Cheryl Flohr, Kerry Keen, Sarah Neff, Cathleen Pryor from Laguna Niguel.

Assemblymember Davies shared personal reflections during her speech: “I’ve had wonderful women mentors in my life... God’s given us all something very special that he wants us to use out there.”

The Woman of the Year event began in 1987 by Assemblymembers Bev Hansen (R) and Sally Tanner (D) when they realized no events were planned during Women's History Month by the California Legislature. Sponsored by the Women’s Caucus today, this annual event remains highly anticipated by legislators.