The 2026 Women for Madison Rally

JMU alumnae connect and reflect on the impact they’ve made in their communities.

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SUMMARY: On April 16, Women for Madison hosted their biannual Rally at the YWCA in Richmond, Va. More than 90 women, representing several generations, joined together to honor Women for Madison’s impact and accomplishments.

The Rally kicked off with warm welcomes, reunions and laughter as the halls of the historic YWCA building filled with the presence of legacy-makers and community pillars. The 113-year-old building was packed with life.

Maggie Flournoy (‘23), vice chair of the Executive Advisory Council; alumni Julie Flournoy (’89) and Anne Marie Elles (’91) — **(L-R)** Maggie Flournoy (’23), vice chair of the Executive Advisory Council; alumni Julie Flournoy (’89) and Anne Marie Elles (’91)

collage of attendees — **(Top left)** Women gaze as speakers share their stories during the Fire Side Chat. **(Top right)** Dr. Sheary Darcus Johnson (’70, ’74M), the first African American graduate of JMU, catches up with Judith Beck (’71).

Rupa Murthy (’99), CEO of YWCA Richmond, sat down with Elizabeth Martin (’85) and Varna Swartz Redlich (’99) and shared stories of friendship, leadership and a love for supporting their communities while holding JMU close to their hearts.

“The opportunity that JMU gave me allowed me to form my own identity about who I am and what I wanted in life,” Murthy reflected, “[JMU] also allowed me to be in this great community.”

Rupa Murthy speaking at Fire Side Chat — “Find who you are, even if it’s not complete, it is a part of your journey,” Murthy said.

Varna Swartz Redlich speaking at Fire Side Chat

Redlich (’99) opened up about her motivations in her work as a teacher. “I work to be sure every child I teach is seen and every adult I mentor is encouraged.”

Martin (’85) talked about her first campus visit and enrollment at JMU. “I walked on campus and it was my place,” she said. “It’s the only college application I filled out.”

Women for Madison Amethyst Circle scholarship recipient Karlee Tomlinson (’25) took to the podium to reflect on her experience as a first-generation student and how her community supported her through navigating a new experience.

“The people around me were supportive, but I was going down a path that they hadn’t been on before,” Tomlinson recounted. “One thing that you have to keep telling yourself is: YOU can do it.”

attendees waving rally towels — The women in attendance signaled their support through cheers and the energetic wave of their rally towels.

The gathering stood as a reflection of Women for Madison’s enduring mission: to celebrate the power of women, foster connection across generations, and invest in the future of the JMU community. From legacy alumni to current students, parents and friends of the university, the evening was a reminder of how shared experiences and intentional support shape lives far beyond the walls of campus.

Held within the historic YWCA building — itself a symbol of service, empowerment and community — the April 16 Rally served as a reminder that Women for Madison continues to thrive because of the relationships, leadership, and generosity of those who believe in lifting others as they rise.

collage of EAC members, staff, and attendees — **(Top left)** Associate Director of Women for Madison Meghan Schenker Fulcher speaks with attendees. **(Top right)** Sierra (Stanczyk) Karcher (’09) posed with Julie Flournoy (’89) and her daughter Maggie Flournoy (’23). **(Bottom left)** Elizabeth Martin (’85) posed with EAC member Barbara Bouldin (’87). **(Bottom right)** EAC chair emerita Carol Anderson (’86), Meghan Schenker Fulcher, Julie Flournoy (’89) and Vice President of University Advancement Dr. Nick Langridge (’00, ’07, ’14).

Alumni mingling — Alumni mingle at the reception before the event.

The 2026 Women for Madison Rally

JMU alumnae connect and reflect on the impact they’ve made in their communities.

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