Rep. Judy Chu Honors Local Women as 2025 Congressional Women of the Year

2025 Congressional Women of the Year (Photo – Office of Judy Chu)

Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted the 15th Annual Congressional Women of the Year Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 19, celebrating the remarkable women whose leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on the San Gabriel Valley community, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating Eaton Fires.

By News Desk

Held at the Arcadia Community Center, the ceremony recognized local women who have shown exceptional resilience, particularly in the wake of the devastating Eaton Fires.

This year’s honorees are a testament to the spirit of perseverance and selfless dedication that defines the San Gabriel Valley community. Nominated by local residents, each of these women has played an instrumental role in strengthening their neighborhoods in the aftermath of the Eaton Fires.

The honorees include:

• Sharon Gray – Owner, Eaton Dam Stables
• Victoria Knapp – Chair, Altadena Town Council
• Maricela Viramontes – President, Rotary Club of Altadena
• Jennifer DeVoll – President/CEO, Pasadena Community Foundation
• Debra Boudreaux – Chief International Affairs Officer, Tzu Chi
• Dr. Randy Taplitz – Chair, Department of Medicine, City of Hope
• Jasmin Shupper – Founder and President, Greenline Housing Foundation
• Sharon Strong – Volunteer and In-Home Care Provider
• Anna Babayan – Interim Principal, Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School

In the wake of the destructive Eaton Fires, these women stepped forward as pillars of strength, helping to guide their communities through an unprecedented crisis. Their efforts exemplify the resilience and spirit that define the San Gabriel Valley.

Rep. Chu congratulated the honorees for their extraordinary contributions and emphasized the power of community resilience and leadership in times of crisis. The Congressional Women of the Year Awards serve as an important reminder of the enduring strength, compassion, and resilience women bring to their communities — a testament to the difference one person can make in the face of adversity