Connect Bridgeport
Ad
FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeRSS
  • Home
  • News
  • Sports
  • Community
    • Community News
    • Anniversaries
    • Announcements
    • Arts & Entertainment
    • Calendar
    • Churches
    • Clubs & Organizations
    • Directory
    • Farmer's Market
    • File Complaint
    • Greeting Cards
    • Library
    • Lost And Found
    • Obituaries
    • Parks & Recreation
    • Sponsorships
  • Trading Post
    • For Sale
    • Local Deals
    • Services
    • Yard Sales
  • Visitors
  • Relocation
  • Education
  • Jobs
  • Alumni
Ad

Several from City to be honored June 6 as Part of the 2025 Class of Celebrate America Women of Distinction

By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on June 03, 2025

This year marks a decade of honoring the impactful contributions of women who enhance our community through their professional achievements and dedicated volunteerism, embodying a profound spirit of philanthropy. The Progressive Women's Association expresses its sincere gratitude to Davis Funeral Home for their enduring ten-year sponsorship of this event and welcomes Antero as the sponsor of the commemorative plaques for our honorees. It is with great pride that the Progressive Women's Association presents the following distinguished women in recognition of their efforts.  
 
Celebrate America Women of Distinction luncheon will be held on Friday, June 6, at noon.  If you would like to attend and help us celebrate these women please call with your RSVP asap.  Plates will be $10.  There is limited seating, so get your reservation in at soon as you can. Call 304-624-6881.
 
Here are this year's honorees and submitted biographies on each.
 
Donna Elsey
Donna is from Bridgeport, has been chosen to receive an award from the Progressive Women’s Association. Donna grew up in Clarksburg where she attended Morgan Grade School, Central Junior High School and Washington Irving High School. She then attended Fairmont State College majoring in Education. In 1971, she began working at Consolidated Gas Supply Corporation, where she was worked for 45 years until retiring from Dominion Transmission. In 1976 she married Tom Elsey. They were married for 44 years until his passing in 2020.  Donna and Tom have two daughters, Samantha Taylor and her husband, Tim, live in Pittsburgh and Dr. Jaclyn Rominger and her husband, Johnnie. Donna was very active in Samantha and Jaclyn’s schooling and school activities, serving as PTA President several times. Donna has continued to work part time since retiring. She has continued to be active in the Clarksburg League for Service, where served as President in 1999.  Donna enjoys traveling, especially with Samantha and Jaclyn.
 
Marla Ferree
Marla spent 24 years in banking building trust, relationships, and leadership in the financial sector. She retired in 2021 and seamlessly transitioned to the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce where she has served four years as the Marketing Director. She was named the Chamber's Volunteer of the Year in 2018, recognizing her commitment to helping others long before she officially joined the Chamber team. In 2025, Marla serves as the 91st President of the Clarksburg League for Service. She is a member of the HOPE Lions Club, a past president/current treasurer of the Kiwanis Club of Clarksburg, and Secretary/Treasurer of Uptown Clarksburg, she is also an active member of the Progressive Women’s Association, and a consistent advocate for empowering and recognizing the women of North Central West Virginia. In February 2025, using Chamber connections, she organized a regional flood relief drive to support the southern coalfields. Partnering with Harry Green Nissan, Central Van Lines, and WBOY, leveraging local resources for storage, transportation, and messaging to launch a highly effective campaign. This community-wide effort resulted in 14,140 pounds of donated goods—including space heaters, bottled water, hygiene products, hand sanitizers, and clothing. The Ferree’s followed Central Van Lines to Williamson, WV to work at the fieldhouse, and help those in need. Marla attends Clarksburg Baptist Church with her husband, Allen Ferree. The two live at Lake Floyd. She is mother to Paige & Johnathan Swentzel, and stepmom to Seth & Matthew Ferree. She is guided by the belief that “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much,” a quote from Helen Keller that reflects her collaborative spirit and servant’s heart.
 
Mariah Frantz
With a career in banking and finance that began in 1999, Mariah Frantz brings over two decades of experience, leadership, and dedication to the industry. Currently serving as Branch Manager at First Guaranty Bank, she has held a range of positions that reflect her unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and customer service. One of her proudest professional accomplishments was playing an integral role in opening a bank in West Virginia while headquartered in Louisiana—an achievement that showcases her vision, drive, and leadership.  Mariah is known for her enthusiastic, optimistic, and caring nature. A trustworthy and supportive leader, she naturally inspires commitment in others—not just by focusing on results, but by genuinely caring about the people behind the work. Her positive, upbeat energy and “never met a stranger” personality help her build lasting connections with colleagues, customers, and community members alike. Outside of her professional life, Mariah’s greatest joy is being a mother to two beautiful, strong-willed, successful, and determined daughters, Kaylee and Emily, who inspire her every day. She also enjoys the special bond she shares with her son-in-law, Nick and is deeply grateful for her supportive husband, Jon, who is always in her corner cheering her on. A proud fur momma to four dogs and three cats, her home is full of love, laughter, and the occasional paw print. Passionate about personal growth, professional development, and community involvement, Mariah is always striving to make a meaningful difference—both in the workplace and in the world around her.
 
Makayla Garcia
Makayla is a proud alumna of West Virginia Wesleyan College, where her passion for community advocacy took root through her work with the Center for Restorative Justice. Her commitment to social equity led her to Clarksburg, where she accepted a position in 2024 with *Resilience Collaborative* (ResCo)—a housing service initiative in partnership with the United Way of Harrison County. As a case manager with ResCo, Makayla supports individuals in maintaining stable housing by utilizing evidence-based practices focused on social well-being and community connection. Her work goes beyond case management; she plays an active role in cultivating spaces of belonging. One such space is *The Circle*—a community center she helped bring to life through collaborative efforts with The First United Methodist Church, the Center for Restorative Justice, and ResCo. Makayla recently co-launched *Vision and Values in the Kitchen*, a program rooted in the belief that sharing meals fosters deeper community ties. Through hands-on cooking workshops, participants gain confidence in the kitchen while exploring personal values and building lasting relationships as engaged citizens of Clarksburg.  In 2025, Makayla was selected as a *Generational Housing Justice Fellow* with the National Low Income Housing Coalition. In this role, she traveled to Washington, D.C., where she worked alongside West Virginia’s congressional delegation to confront the state’s housing crisis head-on. She also serves on the West Virginia Youth Action Board, where she advocates for amplifying the voices of young people across the state. Outside of her professional pursuits, Makayla finds restoration in the natural beauty of Appalachia, where she enjoys spending time outdoors and grounding herself in the oldest mountains on Earth—her forever home.
 
MaryAnn Naumann Iquinto:
Mary Ann’s life has been one of service, strength, and compassion.  MaryAnn has spent her life quietly and powerfully shaping the lives of those around her—through her work in nursing, devotion to family, and steadfast faith. MaryAnn was born on February 8, 1944, to Sylvester “Punk” Naumann and Mary Louise Wuchner Naumann on an Air Force base in Marrysville, California. Her family later moved to Clarksburg, West Virginia, where MaryAnn would plant deep and lasting roots. She attended Saint Mary’s Grade School and graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1963. She went on to pursue her calling in healthcare at Saint Mary’s School of Nursing, graduating in 1965. That same year, she married the love of her life, Louis James Iquinto. Their marriage, now 61 years strong, has been a partnership built on love, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Together, they built a home centered on kindness, service, and faith. MaryAnn dedicated 57 years of her life to the nursing profession, beginning her career in the early 1960s. Her work took her from hospital floors to operating rooms, psychiatric care, and eventually to working with at-risk teens. With quiet strength and compassion, she served countless patients and mentored many young nurses who followed in her footsteps. Even after suffering a stroke that led to her retirement, MaryAnn's legacy continues to resonate in the halls of the hospital and the hearts of those she served. Beyond her career, MaryAnn is a devoted mother to four children: the late Louis Anthony Iquinto, Anne Louise Axton, Ailsa Iquinto-Jones, Adam Jonathan Iquinto and his wife Amanda. She is also a cherished grandmother to nine and great-grandmother to four. MaryAnn and her husband currently reside in Bridgeport, West Virginia, where their life together continues to be a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering faith.
 
Susan MileySusan a dedicated advocate for vulnerable children and veterans, whose lifelong commitment to service has made a meaningful impact in her community. Originally from Buckhannon, West Virginia, Susan graduated from Buckhannon-Upshur High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University. She proudly served in the United States Army Reserves, embodying her strong dedication to her country. For the past 16 years, Susan has been the Business Manager at The Miley Legal Group, where she plays a vital role in supporting injured individuals seeking justice. Before joining the firm, she worked as a mortgage loan officer for a non-profit organization, assisting low-income families in securing affordable housing—a testament to her enduring passion for helping others.  Susan is deeply involved in advocacy work beyond her professional role. She serves as a board member of Hero’s Haven Child Advocacy Center, an organization dedicated to supporting abused and neglected children and aiding in the prosecution of their abusers. Additionally, she is the Board Treasurer for the Gold Star Mother’s Bridge Ride, raising funds and awareness for families who have lost loved ones in military service. Her commitment to veterans is further reflected in her active membership with American Legion Post 68 in Bridgeport, American Legion Auxiliary Post 13 in Clarksburg, and American Legion Riders Post 31 in Shinnston.  Susan lives in Bridgeport, West Virginia, with her husband, Tim Miley, and their four rescued pets: three dogs—Mia, Clara, and Lexi—and a famously lazy cat named Regis. Their daughter, Jordin, is an attorney practicing in San Diego, California, with the prestigious law firm Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati.  With heart, integrity, and relentless dedication, Susan Miley continues to champion causes that support children in crisis and honor the sacrifices of veterans and their families. Please join me in warmly welcoming Susan Miley.
 
Maria Folio Skidmore
Maria is a resident of Bridgeport, WV, and the daughter of Mari Jurado of Jerez Spain. Born in Spain she grew up speaking Spanish as her first language. She also has roots in San Giovanni in Fiore Italy, where her grandfather, Frank Folio (Foglia) immigrated from at the age of twelve.  A 1983 graduate of Notre Dame High School, Maria went on to Earn a BA in dietetics from University of North Dakota in 1989. She has two sons with her late husband, Heath: Tyler (Erica) Skidmore, who lives in Jonesboro Tennessee, and Corey (Fiance’ Tori Jackson) of Bridgeport. Maria is also the proud grandmother of River Heath Skidmore who lives with his parents in Jonesboro Tennessee.  She shares her life with her companion, Joe Petroff, who also resides in Bridgeport; together they enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends.  Maria has dedicated many years to volunteering in youth sports. She served on the Bridgeport Little League board of directors for five years, including one as treasurer and two years as president. In addition, she volunteered with Bridgeport Middle School Sports boosters and was a board member of the Bridgeport High School All Sports Boosters for five years, serving three of those years as vice president. She has always volunteered her time in the sports her sons were involved in and spent two years volunteering at BHS in between her sons’ attendance there.  In 2021, Maria retired from the workforce and launched her own business, Mama Maria’s, which offers catering services and features products available in select local stores. Before starting her business, she spent 15 years as Director of Dietary Services at Meadowview Manor and later worked for West Virginia Restaurant Management out of Hurricane, West Virginia. There she served as Regional Manager, creating policies and procedures still in use today, while also acting as the ServSafe instructor and exam proctor for all 30 locations. Maria currently volunteers with Harrison County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), a program that supports family stability and advocates for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. CASA holds a special place in her heart, and she encourages anyone who is able to volunteer with this vital organization. In her spare time, Maria loves to cook, describing it as therapeutic. She began learning from a young age from her maternal grandmother, starting with the simple task of sorting lentils and beans. After the loss of her husband in 2017, she dove headfirst into her cooking journey. This year, Maria will be involved with the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival by hosting a booth and hopes to be more involved with the festival in years to come. She is humbled to be one of this year’s honorees of the Women in Distinction Award.
 
 
Julie Snider
Julie grew up in Harrison County and graduated from Robert C Byrd High School in 2003. She went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Advertising from West Virginia University (WVU) in 2008. Following her graduation, Julie moved to Washington, DC, where she gained professional experience working for a television rep firm, focusing on selling commercial spots to advertising agencies. In 2013, Julie returned to West Virginia and transitioned into the insurance industry, selling property and casualty insurance. However, her passion for the culinary arts led her back to school, where she obtained a pastry degree. This new path took her to Stonewall Resort, where she worked as a pastry chef before eventually becoming the general manager of Meagher's Irish Pub in Bridgeport. A significant turning point came in 2022 when her best friend, Danielle, introduced her to Bi-County Nutrition. Initially unsure of the organization's mission, Julie took an interview and was deeply moved by the impact Bi-County Nutrition had on the community. Today, she is a dedicated member of the team, contributing to the daily provision of meals to approximately 550 senior citizens in Harrison County, a role she finds immensely fulfilling. Currently residing in Shinnston with her fiancé, Matt Capozzi, Julie's family includes two dogs and a cat. She looks forward to officially welcoming three step-children after her marriage on June 7th, 2025. In her leisure time, Julie enjoys playing trivia with friends, indulging in her love for baking, and coaching baseball for the Bridgeport Challenger League, a commitment she has maintained for the past twelve years.
 
Traci Lynn Southern-Nicholson
Traci is a dedicated community advocate and philanthropist, married to Charles Nicholson for nearly 32 years. Together, they have built a loving family, which includes their daughter, Whitnery Boggess, and granddaughter, Giada Boggess. Traci takes immense pride in her family, particularly in their commitment to volunteering and enhancing their community.  Traci's journey in philanthropy began 25 years ago when she and her husband were approached to support the Humane Society of Harrison County. This initiative led to the creation of "Hogs for Dogs," an event that has grown into one of the most successful fundraisers in West Virginia, celebrating its 24th anniversary next week. Over the years, Traci and Charles have expanded their charitable efforts, raising funds for numerous other charities and families in need. Throughout their philanthropic journey, Traci and her husband have organized approximately 60 fundraisers, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to giving back. They actively volunteer for various causes, including support for veterans and sick children, embodying their belief in the importance of being good people and making a positive impact in their community.
 
Editor's Note: Pictured, clockwise from top left, Donna Elsey, Julie Snider, Makayla Garcia, Marla Ferree, Traci Lynn Southern-Nicholson, Susan Miley, MaryAnn Naumann Iquinto, and Maria Folio Skidmore. Pictured in the middle is Mariah Frantz.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Share


Sign up/stay connected

Create your profile to start adding photos, posting comments, and more.

SIGN UP

Ad
Ad
Ad

Blogs [ view all ]

  • Photo

    From the Bench: Props to BHS Team One of...

    There have been plenty of great boys’ basketball teams in Bridgeport High School’s history. Certainly, thi...

    Posted by Jeff Toquinto

  • Photo

    Time Travel: Early 1980s Bridgeport Yout...

    See anyone you remember from this youth soccer photo from the very early 1980s - likely 1981 or 1982? The team...

    Posted by Dick Duez

  • Photo

    It's Happening: Baylor Comes Home

    Many have been following the journey of 2-year-old Baylor Waggamon since early-2025 when he was awaiting a heart transplan...

    Posted by Julie Perine

  • Photo

    ToquiNotes: Unlucky 13-Year Anniversary ...

    It was August 20, 1970, when what many will consider the worst storm in Bridgeport’s history took place. A torna...

    Posted by Jeff Toquinto

  • Photo

    The Grapevine: New Feature Nearing a Deb...

    Guess what’s happening? Starting this month, the Grapevine is going to have a new feature.   On...

    Posted by Rosalyn Queen

«»

Calendar [ view all ]

Fri
11

Monthly Matinee: Mamma Mia! (2008) (Bridgeport Public Library)

Fri
11

Family Movie Night: Wreck-It Ralph (Bridgeport Public Library)

Mon
14

Bridgeport City Council Meeting

 



Bridgeport, WV
Editorial Board Advertise Privacy Policy Contact Us
FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeRSS

©2014 Connect Bridgeport.