By: Paige Britt, Follow South Jersey Intern

MAYS LANDING, N.J. — The Atlantic County Advisory Commission on Women is spotlighting four local women who are positive influences in the community to celebrate National Women’s History Month.

“Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories” showcases four powerful women; Laura Powers Batchelor, Elaine M. Hawkes, Michelle Washington Wilson, and Cindy Christy Fertsch.

Chief Marketing Officer for Atlantic Cape Community College, Laura Powers Batchelor, is on the President’s Cabinet and oversees the college’s marketing and public relations. A few of her accomplishments include leading a student-centric marketing plan, redesigning the college’s website to be more accessible, and developing the rebrand of the college in order to increase exposure.
Co-founder and editor of Shore Local Newsmagazine and co-founder of Hearts of Surfing, Cindy Christy Fertsch, works to help the people of Atlantic County. Shore Local Magazine focuses on the people, places, and events that make Atlantic County the place that it is. Hearts of Surfing is a nationally recognized, volunteer driven nonprofit organization that offers families with autism free surfing and recreation opportunities.

Elaine M. Hawkes, co-founder of WEHA Gospel 88.7 and 100.3 FM, believes strongly in giving back to her community. Hawkes and her husband own their own business, called Hawkes Janitorial Contractors and Moving Services. She strives to include ministry principles in her business endeavors.

Member of the NJ Storytelling Network and National Association of Black Storytellers Michelle Washington Wilson has been writing and performing for over 30 years. She has traveled all throughout North America and the Caribbean performing and sharing her story. Wilson has also served on the Atlantic County Library Commission for 18 years.
Chairperson of the Advisory Commission Lori Vermeulen hopes to inspire other women through this series.
“We hope by highlighting the accomplishments of these successful women, we will encourage others to reflect on their own stories of women who have been meaningful in their lives,” stated Vermeulen.
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