At the annual CNEW (Chamber Network of Enterprising Women) Award and Silent Auction event, the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce celebrates women whose leadership and service reflect the legacy of Laurie A. Wideman. Laurie Wideman was a true small business champion. She owned Cardinal Travel Agency from 1996 to 2007 before joining Travel Leaders of Fredericksburg. Laurie’s dedication to the Chamber and the region was unmatched. At the time of her sudden passing in 2010, Laurie served on the Chamber’s Board of Directors, the Leadership Advisory Committee, and chaired the Stafford Roundtable. She was deeply involved in numerous committees, including Tourism, Transportation, and CNEW. Laurie’s tireless work and unwavering dedication left a lasting impact on our community.
To honor Laurie’s legacy, this award was created to reflect her values, passion, and high standards. The recipient must be a female Chamber member who demonstrates an independent spirit, a passion for improving the community, and leads with integrity and honesty. Former honorees carefully review nominations each year to select the award recipient.
The 2025 Laurie A. Wideman Enterprising Woman’s Award honorees are Dr. Denise L. Willis and Leigh Anne VanDoren.
Dr. Denise L. Willis, a Washington, D.C. native, retired from more than 30 years of federal service before stepping into a second career devoted to mental health and community advocacy. With advanced degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Christian Counseling, she leads a counseling center focused on equipping, educating, and empowering individuals across the region. Dr. Willis is deeply connected to local schools, service organizations, and mental health providers. In addition to her professional work, she serves as First Lady of her church, offering leadership, compassion, and support to those she encounters. Her integrity, purpose, and dedication to uplifting others exemplify the spirit of this award.
Leigh Anne VanDoren, founder and publisher of FXBG Parent magazine, has spent more than two decades creating and leading local publications, digital products, and programs that connect families and strengthen the community. She is also President of the FXBG Advance Board, helping launch a nonprofit newsroom in 2023 that has quickly become a vital source of trusted reporting in the Fredericksburg region. Through Fredericksburg Parent Gives, she supports initiatives such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and other family-centered community programs. Known for her energy, creativity, and commitment to service, Leigh Anne is a leader whose influence continues to shape the cultural and informational landscape of our region.
At this year’s event, more than $6,000 was raised in support of Loisann’s Hope House. Earlier events held throughout the year also contributed to this effort, and the total funds raised will be presented during a check presentation in January 2026.
Congratulations to Dr. Denise L. Willis and Leigh Anne VanDoren. Your leadership, service, and dedication continue to inspire the Chamber and the entire Fredericksburg community.
Past recipients of the Laurie A. Wideman Enterprising Woman’s Award:
2024: Anne Overington
2023: Barbara Gustavson
2022: Ginni Matern
2021: Tammy Reid
2020: Rebecca Church
2019: Stacy Horne
2018: Michelle Caldwell Thompson
2017: Martha Hutzel
2016: Stephanie Lyles
2015: Andrea McConnell Ayers
2014: Neda McGuire
2013: Dierdre Powell White
2012: Kathy Hoffman
2011: Lisa Williams
2010: Janel Donohue
