HELENA – Two Helena women are being recognized by women’s groups for their contributions to the community.
Mary Rutherford, President and CEO of the Montana Community Foundation, was recognized as the 2019 YWCA Woman of the Year and Marcia Wall, Executive Director of the Angel Fund, was given the 2019 Woman of Achievement Award.
Both women were surprised with the awards Friday by Soroptimist International of Helena and the American Business Women’s Association, who sponsor the awards.
Awardees are chosen based on certain criteria, including their involvement and commitment to the Helena community and accomplishments in their respective fields.
Kelly Cresswell with Reach Higher Montana nominated Rutherford for the Woman of the Year award. Cresswell wrote in her nomination letter that Rutherford is very deserving of the award.
“I am personally inspired by Mary’s tenacity, positivity and philanthropic spirit. Mary gives with her whole being, and delights in supporting and building up other women,” Cresswell wrote.
Rutherford said she was surprised to receive the award.
“I just want to say thanks. I feel really fortunate to have been selected for this award, but there are so many people in our community who do what I do and so much more everyday to help our fellow community members, so just thank you very much,” Rutherford said.
Marcia Wall runs the Angel Fund, which she founded after seeing students without the basic necessities for education like proper clothing and school supplies.
“Marcia Wall’s vision to help others has touched the lives of countless students and families in the greater Helena area,” Wall’s nomination letter said. “Through the angel fund, students have hope in their future and enhanced self-esteem to help them flourish in their education.”
Both Rutherford and Wall will be recognized during the Salute to Women Luncheon on March 14 at the Great Northern Town Center. Tickets are on sale now.
