
The Howard County Commission for Women was established by statute in 1980 to promote the economic, social and political equality of women. The Commission has the authority to conduct studies, review progress, recommend action, and carry out activities to support this purpose. This may include:
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Collecting, analyzing and disseminating information to assist in changing attitudes and eliminating discriminatory behavior
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Studying conditions which demonstrate inequalities and unmet needs concerning women, issuing position papers, and recommending procedures or legislation to remedy them
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Stimulating efforts to expand educational and employment opportunities for women
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Promoting recognition of women’s accomplishments
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Publicizing activities and services of interest to women
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Enter the 2026 Women's History Month Poster Contest
The Howard County Commission for Women is seeking Howard County students to enter its 2026 Women’s History Month poster contest. The deadline to enter is 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 6, 2026.
The 2026 theme for Women’s History Month celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, innovation, and leadership. For 250 years, countless women have made significant contributions that continue to better shape our lives — here at home and across the globe. This contest is designed to bring a visual light to those who have made and continue to make a difference. The challenge is open to all Howard County elementary, middle and high school students — public, private and homeschooled.
Posters may be in a medium of the student’s choosing, must be the student’s original work and incorporate the contest theme. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded at each educational level. For detailed information about how to enter the poster contest, view the poster contest flier and submission guidelines. If you have questions or need assistance, email women@howardcountymd.gov.
Commission Information
Meeting Schedule
Special Meeting
SPECIAL (Hybrid) Public Meeting of the Howard County Commission for Women:
November 4, 2025 | 6:45 to 8:15 p.m.
Department of Community Resources and Service | Conference Room 338 | 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, 21046
Meeting Link: Microsoft Teams Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 262 207 644 875 | Passcode: nv9GJ6vA
Regular Meetings of the Howard County Commission for Women:
Occurs the third Wednesday every two months effective 10/15/2025 until 6/17/2026 from 7 to 9 p.m., Eastern Time (US & Canada).
Meeting number: 2302 624 2357
Password: FRamDkPD748
Join by phone: 1-650-479-3207 Call-in toll number (US/Canada)
Access code: 230 262 42357
Board Members
The Commission is comprised of twelve members, including one high school student, who are appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. Current members are:
- Stephanie Al-Adhami
- Diana Awed
- Dr. Homayara Aziz
- Saundra Barrett
- Mae A. Beale
- Dr. Ashley Easley
- Dr. Dana Edwards
- Kristen Layman Mahoney
- Shannon Beasley Taitt
- Anika Verma
Staff
- Executive Secretary: Michelle Henry (Acting)
Commission for Women Report 2019 - 2023
This seven-page report highlights the Commission’s priorities, key actions and impact in our community from 2019-2023.
Meeting Agendas & Minutes
2025
2024
December 2024
November 2024
October 2024
September 2024
April 2024
- Agenda
- Meeting Minutes
March 2024
February 2024
January 2024