
Raise your voice.
Shape your community.
AVOW is a nonpartisan community that empowers women by building confidence, skills, and connections to succeed in public life– locally and beyond.
Our Mission
Our mission is simple: advance the voices of women in public life.


"What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."
—Jane Goodall, primatologist & anthropologist

Courageous Civility
Courageous Civility means tackling tough topics with respect and curiosity. We seek understanding across different perspectives, without needing agreement or resolution.

Inclusiveness
Inclusiveness means that every woman belongs in public life, regardless of race, background, ability, faith, nationality, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or political affiliation.

Integrity
Integrity means choosing facts and truth over rhetoric and hype, and holding ourselves accountable as we learn, speak, and lead.
Our Values
Women's Campaign Institute
A three-day, nonpartisan boot camp (& alumni learning) that prepares local and regional women to lead campaigns, pursue public office or appointment, and govern collaboratively.
What you’ll get:
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Practical training from national experts and local leaders
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Two tracks: Candidates & Campaign Managers or Public Appointments
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Skills, confidence, and a strong alumnae network
Join us in empowering change
Applications for the 2026 Institute are now closed. Look for information about the 2027 Institute this fall!
Cost: $75 registration. The rest is covered through donations from alumnae and community supporters.
Our Board Members
Coming together from diverse backgrounds and experiences, our board members are the backbone of AVOW. Their ideas help shape the direction and mission of our movement as it continues to develop.

Patti Hays
Co-Founder of AVOW

Marilyn Moran-Townsend
Co-Founder of AVOW

Rachel Tobin-Smith
Co-Founder of AVOW

Faith Van Gilder
Co-Founder of AVOW

Paula Hughes-Schuh
Board Member

Regenia Frison Jones
Board Member

Nicole Keesling
Board Member

Nikki Quintana
Board Member

Patricia Roller
Board Member

Mayor Sharon Tucker
Board Member
