League of Women Voters of Hays County elects first Black and Latina leaders

The League of Women Voters – Hays County (LWV) held its annual meeting virtually on May 13. They elected new board members, including the local chapter’s first Black and Latina officers. Leaders recognized the local League’s hard work in a tough year.

At the 2020 National Convention, members agreed on the need for greater diversity in our organization. Hays County is fortunate to have these well-qualified women working to propel the Hays League forward in meeting its mission of involving citizens in the democratic process.

The new president, Teresa Carbajal Ravet, said, “It’s an honor to lead this respected nonpartisan organization in its mission to empower voters and defend democracy. Our new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy will prioritize engaging everyone in Hays County and holding county leaders and policymakers accountable to all those they represent.

“We can work together to include and involve all Hays community members. I look forward to meeting with area leaders and organizations to learn more about how we can work collaboratively for the equitable inclusion and engagement of all Hays community members. To get in touch, contact me at [email protected].”

Serving alongside Carbajal Ravet will be President-elect Mary Earls, and Board members Rosemary Jimenez, Irma Guadarrama, Linda Calvert, Sheryl Davis, Marilyn Minnaar, Laurel O’Donnell, Charles Minnaar, Margaret Lindsey, Susan Raybuck, Shannon FitzPatrick and Phyllis M. Finnemore.

There are 139 women and men in the LWV – Hays County. Many members also participate in local teams within San Marcos, Wimberley, Kyle, and Dripping Springs.

The League has a hundred-year history of civic engagement and continues to work at building trust and relationships that help make democracy work. It works to inform people about issues and candidates and encourage every eligible person to vote.