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

The League of Women Voters of Hays County held its annual meeting virtually on May 13, where it elected new board members, including the first Black and Latina officers.

During the meeting, 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 the organization. The LWV said 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.

New League of Women Voters of Hays County President Teresa Carbajal Ravet said it's an honor to lead this respected non partisan 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,” Carbajal Ravet said. “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 president@lwvhaysco.com.”

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 will serve alongside Carbajal Ravet.

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

The league has a 100-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.

Information provided by League of Women Voters of Hays County