Women in Technology and the March of Dimes announced the 2009 Heroines in Technology finalists, who are recognized for their commitment to community service. From all walks of life women were recognized from large public companies to nonprofit social services organizations. I would like to introduce you to some of our 2009 Heroines in Technology finalists. These women are the thought leaders of business and technology and yet they find time to invest in organizations that thrive because of their passion.  As we continue to highlight their outstanding achievements, today we recognize Elizabeth Wilmot and Katy Warren.  
 
Elizabeth Wilmot
President and CEO
Turtle Wings Electronics Recycling
 
As the President of Turtle Wings Electronics Recycling, Elizabeth Wilmot could easily be focused only on those volunteer activities that support her company’s mission, but that just isn’t the case.  While she does spread her passion for the environment by hosting electronics recycling drives and recycling everything that enters their warehouse, she is also very active with INOVA Alexandria Hospital.  She is an active member of TWIG, the junior auxiliary that has contributed over $2 million to the hospital throughout the years.  All members of TWIG work at the thrift shop in Old Town Alexandria and actively serve on the committees.  Elizabeth is active on the fundraising, stock, and entertainment committees.  She also served as the Treasurer of the Bell Haven Women’s Club and remains an active member.  Elizabeth is also dedicated to the democratic process.  When this fall’s election dawned, she made sure all of her employees registered to vote and gave them paid time off to vote.   She inspires others through her heroic activities.  
 
Kathleen “Katy” Warren
Associate Department Head
The MITRE Corporation
 
Katy Warren received a call in 2004 from the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program (NVTRP) asking for assistance in creating a web presence and she responded enthusiastically. She helped the executive director convey her message on the web and became involved with management of the horses.  She assists riders and volunteers gain independence while on horseback.  When a fire destroyed the NVTRP’s facilities, Katy took a week from work to help with fundraising and repurposed IT infrastructure to community with riders, volunteers, donors and the community. Thanks to Katy’s hard work, they found new facilities including an indoor classroom training space.  She is helping NVTRP with its ongoing $5 million capital campaign. Katy’s dedication to volunteerism led to her selection at MITRE as “Volunteer of the Month” in April 2008.  

Full list of finalists can be found in Necessary Notes

Martha McCollum is a self-defined Relationship Engineer and advocate of many causes -  most importantly in helping everyone find their purpose for advocacy.  She devotes her time to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer and supporting her friends and colleagues in having a positive impact through their charitable endeavors.  She is also Sales Director at Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, an innovative law firm for businesses.