Thompson Honored by Commission for Women

Barbara Thompson has been chosen by the St. Mary’s County Commission for Women as the recipient of its 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award. The commission presents the award annually to an outstanding St. Mary’s County woman who exemplifies continual dedication and support of the community.

Ms. Thompson will be honored at the commission’s annual Women’s History Month banquet on March 15, 2017.

The banquet’s theme is “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor & Business.” This is a perfect fit for Ms. Thompson.

A longtime resident of St. Mary’s County, Ms. Thompson is known for working hard in support of the community. She has served in leadership roles which have not been traditionally filled by women, acting as a pioneer for the women who come behind her. Ms. Thompson was the first woman president of the board of county commissioners, she served as commissioner from 1990 to 1998. Today, she is chairwoman of the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Board of Directors, where she has served since 2009 and is president of the Leonardtown Rotary. She is a co-founder and past chairwoman of the St. Mary’s Republican Central Committee, past vice chairwoman of the Salt and Pepper Organization and the St. Mary’s County Charter Writing Board.

Ms. Thompson acts as her own mentor – always self-motivated and inspired to accomplish goals. Although employed in some roles that are traditionally held by men, her hard work and determination have enabled her to overcome gender obstacles. She said it may have taken longer for her to be promoted, but eventually her salary was usually commensurate with men doing similar work. Her “can-do attitude” has allowed her to balance career and family while still finding time to serve the community in many volunteer roles.

The banquet will do more than honor Ms. Thompson. The Commission for Women also will present awards to the Woman of the Year and the Woman of Tomorrow. Nominations are now being accepted for these honors. To access nomination forms, go to the St. Mary’s County Commission for Women website. The banquet is open to the public.

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