The College of Southern Maryland’s chapter of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC) installed new leadership and welcomed nine new members during a pinning ceremony marking the group’s second year on campus.
AAWCC, a national council established in 1973, supports women in community colleges and works to advance their leadership and professional development. The AAWCC-CSM chapter, launched last year, brings that mission to campus through mentorship, career development and networking opportunities. CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson, who also serves as AAWCC’s national president, led Thursday’s ceremony and encouraged chapter members to build on the organization’s legacy. “It is through our shared vision of advancing leadership and supporting professional development from the national level to individual chapters that we’re reminded that no matter where you are organizationally, you can make a difference,” Wilson said. Wilson took the helm of AAWCC’s national board last year, a role that built on her tenure as the organization’s secretary and Region 2 director.
The ceremony installed CSM’s 2026-2027 chapter Executive Board: Courtney Hawkins as president, Thonya Ryan as vice president, Joy Syring as secretary, and Yvette Motley as treasurer. Each board member pledged to lead with integrity, promote educational opportunities and foster communication for women in higher education.
Hawkins, the incoming chapter president, credited the outgoing board for establishing the chapter’s foundation in its first year. “Our outgoing leadership built a strong foundation for this chapter and created a culture of supporting one another, celebrating success, and encouraging professional growth,” she said. “As we look ahead, I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue strengthening our commitment to expanding professional development opportunities and supporting the next generation of community college leaders.”
Nine new members also received their chapter pins during the ceremony: Lakisha Ferebee, Natasha Hudson, Kellie Jamison, Nylasia Kelly, Tracy LaBrie, Lashawn Mckoy, AnnMarie Saunders, Myisha Sudler and Vanessa Wells-Manago. Each pledged to support the chapter’s mission of advancing education, leadership and opportunity for women in community colleges.
Wilson closed the ceremony by encouraging members to continue stepping into leadership roles and mentoring others. “Leadership is courage when you’re the only one standing, and it’s knowing that sometimes you have to walk through a door first so others can know the door is open,” she said.
The CSM chapter, open to all college faculty and staff, holds meetings and events throughout the year and collaborates with other regional AAWCC chapters. AAWCC is an affiliate council of the American Association of Community Colleges.
