TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Wabash Valley is filled with remarkable women, and on Thursday, two of those women met, talked and helped create a positive change in the community.
As our local Remarkable Women contest comes to a close, we’re proud to announce our winner: Barbara Wilson.
Many may recall her as one of the first female pharmacists in Indiana. Now that she is retired, she is known for her volunteer work.
After winning the Remarkable Women contest, she decided to donate her $1,000 reward to the Council On Domestic Abuse, an organization that helps abused individuals and their children.
Among the services C.O.D.A. offers are emergency shelter, case management and a 24-hour crisis hotline.
Wilson said her $1,000 donation both honors a late friend and creates an impact locally.
“Sister Mary Marcotte was our nun administrator. After she left St. Anne’s, she went to work for C.O.D.A.,” Wilson explained. “I said that has to be a tough service. (Marcotte) said, it is. So, it’s because of her.”
C.O.D.A. Executive Director and Remarkable Women finalist Emily Murray said donations such as Wilson’s will create a lasting impact in the community.
“This is such a blessing, Barbara. We really appreciate this, this is so kind. You didn’t have to do that, you could’ve given this money anywhere,” Murray told Wilson when they met Thursday. “This was really a blessing for us, any donation is a blessing. But this one is a little more special, so thank you.”
The women took to each other instantly.
Murray said tenacity is a trait the they both have in common. Wilson said her early impression of Murray is how nice she is, making her a perfect fit for her current role with C.O.D.A.
Wilson and Murray plan to keep in touch and meet for coffee soon.
