Legacy Award Recipients
The MWC Legacy Award is given to one extraordinary person annually who goes above and beyond in serving to empower widows and their families around the world. They are of the highest excellence who possess the greatest levels of virtue, nobility, humbleness, compassion, fortitude and the epitome of heroic leadership.
Deborah K. Marshall
2024 Legacy Award Recipient
Deborah K. Marshall was born in Tyler, Texas, far from where her career would take her to Dallas, New York, Washington, DC, and now Florida. With a talent for connecting with audiences, Ms. Marshall shares her journey through storytelling, revealing the challenges and triumphs that brought her to where she is today.
Her career spans corporate America, Hollywood, and real estate redevelopment, where she led major projects, including a landmark joint venture in healthcare. As the Chief Operating Officer of the American Fundraising Foundation (AmFund), Ms. Marshall has helped raise over $57 million for nonprofits nationwide. Recognized as the 2020 Fundraiser of the Year by Nonprofit Pro, she excels in strategic initiatives and leadership, guiding organizations through ever-changing climates.
Ms. Marshall’s achievements include awards such as Woman of the Year and special recognition from the Washington Press Club. She is also a noted motivational speaker and facilitator, with a passion for inspiring others.
She became a widow in December 2022, after 25 years of marriage.
Dr. Debra Oliver
2023 Legacy Award Recipient
Debra Parker Oliver, MSW, PhD, concentrates on assessing behavioral interventions to enhance the lives of caregivers of family members with advanced illness. Dr. Oliver has extensive experience and specific expertise working with caregivers of patients in hospice and developing interventions to enhance the experience of caregivers. She has also worked with providers of hospice care to develop collaborations between interdisciplinary team members.
In 2023, Dr. Oliver conducted a broad research project with Modern Widows Club through Washington University in St. Louis. We await the findings of this vital report.
Heather Ibrahim-Leathers
2022 Legacy Award Recipient
Heather Ibrahim-Leathers founded Global Fund for Widows following the passing of her grandmother in 2009. Since then, the Global Fund for Widows has raised over $1,000,000 for economic empowerment programs in Egypt, India, Tanzania, Nigeria, Bolivia, and the Dominican Republic.
With its focus on training and financing widows and female heads of households into building sustainable and inelastic micro-enterprises, the Global Fund for Widows has enabled more than 10,000 widows to become economically empowered and self-sustained. Ms. Ibrahim-Leathers has further ensured the sustainability and economic viability of each widow’s micro-enterprises by developing intricately interdependent value chains, affording purchasing power and high visibility into their income streams.
In addition to technical and economic programming, Ms. Ibrahim-Leathers is an active advocate for the rights of widows and child widows at the United Nations, presenting regularly including at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, at the Commission on the Status of Women in 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015 in New York. Ms. Ibrahim-Leathers has also presented on widows at the United Kingdom’s House of Lords.
Ms. Ibrahim-Leathers earned her Bachelors in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and is a Chartered Financial Analyst.
Lord Raj Loomba
2021 Legacy Award Recipient
Lord Raj Loomba has become well known for his fundraising and campaigning concerning the issue of widowhood in the developing world. His mother, Shrimati Pushpa Wati Loomba, was widowed at the age of 37 in India, and Lord Loomba experienced first-hand the social and economic discrimination that widows in that country faced.
It was in his mother’s memory that Lord Loomba set up his charity, The Loomba Foundation, which works to raise awareness of the issue of widowhood and which raises funds to educate the children of poor widows in India and empower widows in other developing countries in south Asia and across Africa. The flagship of the charity’s awareness campaign is International Widows Day, which takes place annually on June 23, the anniversary of his mother’s widowhood. Following a sustained campaign, on December 21, 2010, the United Nations General Assembly formally recognized, by unanimous acclaim, June 23 as International Widows Day.
In recognition of his contribution to charity, in the 2008 Birthday Honors Lord Loomba was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE); he received his award from Prince Charles at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace. (Credit: Wikipedia)
He took up his seat in the House of Lords on January 13, 2011.
Margaret Owen
2020 Legacy Award Recipient
Margaret Owen is a widely acclaimed and celebrated women’s rights activist. Ms. Owen brings to Widows for Peace Through Democracy an astounding range of experience gleaned from an extraordinary career path.
Born in 1932, the daughter of a solicitor and a doctor, Ms. Owen studied law at Cambridge. After qualifying as a barrister, she also worked on television documentaries and has a degree in anthropology as well as a Diploma in Social Administration from LSE.
But it was only after the death of her husband in 1990 that Ms. Owen learned while teaching judicial administration to Commonwealth magistrates and hosting a Malawian mother with her sick baby, of the horrifying plight of widows overseas -particularly in conflict and AIDS afflicted countries. This led her to found Widows for Peace Through Democracy, the first international organization to comprehensively address human rights issues in the context of widowhood.
In 2013, Ms. Owen received an O.B.E for her contribution to the advancement of women’s human rights, and particularly for her pioneering work on widows’ rights. She continues to be a regular participant at the UN Commission on the Status of Women and plays a key role in consulting on widowhood issues to the UN.
Roseline Orwa
2019 Legacy Award Recipient
Roseline Orwa is a social entrepreneur with a focus on gender and rural development. She holds a non-graduate degree in Public Relations and Communication from Daystar University, Diploma in Printing and Graphic design from the Technical University of Kenya, and a Diploma in Project Management and Innovation. In addition, she has undertaken a number of short courses in the areas of gender, media, and advocacy. Ms. Orwa is a lifelong Fellow of the Atlantic Social Economic and Equity Program at the London School of Economics for social and economic equity, and an Aspen 2021 Fellow.
Ms. Orwa has worked with both county and state and consulted with different local and global civil organizations on widow rights. She is an experienced grassroots gender and development expert with a wealth of experience spanning over 10 years. She has major competencies in: Sex and Gender Based Violence issues, Gender mainstreaming, and Rural Women empowerment programs in Kenya. She is also well-versed in public policy advocacy, access to gender justice, and general gender mainstreaming particularly in livelihoods, agriculture and micro-finance. Ms. Orwa is an international award-winning widow advocate, a chapter leader with Modern Widows Club, and also serves as an appointed Commissioned Expert with the Ministry of Labour and Social Services in Kenya.
Know Someone Worthy of Recognition? Nominate Them Today!
If you know someone who embodies exceptional dedication and impact in supporting widows, consider submitting their nomination for our Legacy Award at Modern Widows Club. This prestigious award honors individuals who have made a significant difference through their commitment, leadership, and compassionate contributions.
By nominating someone, you help us celebrate and recognize their invaluable efforts, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps and furthering our mission of support and empowerment.
Legendary Widows: Stories of Legacy
A Modern Widows Club original book filled with inspiring stories of legendary widows
Whether you know a widow or are a widow yourself, you will deeply feel these stories. The brave, beautiful women whose experiences fill these pages honored the love they received, and in so doing allowed it to strengthen and renew themselves as rays of light, waymakers, pioneers, trailblazers, compassionate leaders, honorable philanthropists, vow keepers, and pillars of womanhood.
Our book will leave you with the belief that widowhood is a stage of life in which to blossom. Putting vision to action, MWC provides compassionate support, empowering widows to thrive as they move from grief to growth. We hope the widows presented in this book light your path with strength and dignity.
The legendary widows featured in this book are Helen Fabela Chávez, Terri Irwin, Betty White, Cindy McCain, Katharine Meyer Graham, Coretta Scott King, Graça Machel, Te Ata Thompson Fisher, Osa Johnson, Veuve Clicquot, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Betty Ford.
Helen Fabela Chávez
Fierce Determination to Help Change Lives
Helen Fabela Chavez, born on January 21, 1928, in Brawley, California, played a crucial yet often understated role in the farm labor movement alongside her husband, Cesar Chavez. Raised in modest circumstances, Helen dropped out of high school to support her family and met Cesar in the mid-1940s while working in the fields. Their partnership, solidified by marriage in 1948, became the cornerstone of their shared commitment to improving the lives of farm workers. As Cesar embarked on organizing the United Farm Workers in the 1960s, Helen supported the movement by managing the Farm Workers Credit Union and raising their eight children, demonstrating resilience and dedication through numerous strikes and labor actions.
Throughout the rise of the United Farm Workers, Helen’s contributions extended beyond her behind-the-scenes administrative work. She joined picket lines, managed union finances, and provided emotional support to her husband and young volunteers who came to support the cause. Her sacrifices, including living in poverty to support Cesar’s mission, exemplified her unwavering belief in their cause. Despite her reserved nature, Helen's strength and commitment to both her family and the labor movement left a lasting impact, cementing her role as a vital force in the fight for workers' rights. Her legacy is remembered for her quiet determination and significant influence on the success of the farm workers' movement.
Coretta Scott King
Activism Rooted in Nonviolence
Coretta Scott King, born in Alabama, was a pivotal figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, deeply influenced by her upbringing and commitment to social justice. As the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she played a crucial role in supporting and amplifying his work for racial equality and justice. Her dedication was evident in her tireless efforts to further the cause after Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, leading various initiatives to promote his legacy and continue the fight for civil rights.
Beyond her advocacy for racial equality, Coretta Scott King was a champion for women’s rights and global peace. She established the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, which serves as a living tribute to her husband's vision. Her contributions extended to promoting international human rights and advancing educational opportunities, reflecting her enduring commitment to justice and equality for all. Through her leadership and activism, Coretta Scott King left an indelible mark on both the civil rights movement and global humanitarian efforts.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Breaking the Mold at the White House
Eleanor Roosevelt, born on October 11, 1884, in New York City, faced profound personal and public challenges throughout her life. Orphaned before she was ten and raised by her grandmother, Eleanor developed a strong sense of independence and social justice. Her early involvement in social causes, influenced by her education in London and experiences in New York, laid the groundwork for her future activism. Marriage to Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1905 set the stage for a partnership that would reshape American politics and social reform.
Upon Franklin's death in 1945, Eleanor confronted the loss of her husband, her role as First Lady, and her sense of identity. Yet, she transformed this personal tragedy into a platform for global influence, becoming what President Truman called "the First Lady of the World." Her contributions to the United Nations, particularly in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and her continued advocacy for civil rights, labor rights, and women’s equality, underscored her resilience and commitment to justice. Even after her death in 1962, Eleanor's legacy endured, with her impact on human rights and social reform continuing to inspire future generations.
Terri Irwin
A Heart for Australian Wildlife
Terri Irwin, born Theresa Raines, was immersed in wildlife from a young age, nurtured by her father's dedication to rescuing injured animals. Growing up in a family that cherished the outdoors, she developed a profound love for animals, which guided her early career as a veterinary assistant and led to the creation of Cougar Country, a rescue park for wild and domesticated animals. Her commitment to animal welfare was evident through her hands-on efforts to rehabilitate and release wildlife back into the wild.
In 1991, Terri’s life took a pivotal turn when she met Steve Irwin during a trip to Australia. Their shared passion for animals quickly blossomed into a partnership, both personally and professionally. Together, they expanded their family zoo into a global sensation and used television and film to promote wildlife conservation. Following Steve’s tragic death in 2006, Terri has continued to honor his legacy by advancing their conservation efforts, expanding the zoo, and advocating for environmental protection, all while raising their two children, Bindi and Robert, in their shared mission.
Madame Veuve Clicquot
La Grande Dame of Champagne
Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin, known as Veuve Clicquot, was born in 1777 in Reims, France, amidst the turmoil of the French Revolution. Orphaned at a young age and raised by her grandmother, Barbe-Nicole's life was shaped by the upheaval around her. Her early years were spent in the world of textiles, but her marriage to François Clicquot in 1798 redirected her path into the burgeoning world of champagne. Despite the challenges posed by the Revolution, including a church wedding forbidden by law, Barbe-Nicole and François established a foundation for what would become an illustrious legacy.
Following François's untimely death in 1805, Barbe-Nicole took over the family wine business, a rare move for a woman of her time. She faced immense hurdles, including financial strain and wartime disruptions, but her resilience and innovative spirit propelled her forward. Under her leadership, Veuve Clicquot became renowned for its quality and innovation, including the development of riddling, a technique for producing clear champagne. Her perseverance paid off, and by 1811, her champagne was celebrated across Europe, solidifying her reputation as a pioneering entrepreneur in the wine industry.
Veuve Clicquot's impact extended beyond her business achievements. She modernized champagne production and was one of the first women to lead a major commercial enterprise. Her legacy endures through the prestigious brand she built, synonymous with luxury and celebration. Even as she enjoyed her later years and spent time with her family, her innovative spirit and success left an indelible mark on the world of champagne. She passed away in 1866 at the age of 89, having transformed her widowhood into a symbol of entrepreneurial triumph and lasting elegance. Currently, her life's story is shared with the featured film Widow Clicquot starring Haley Bennett.
Discover More Inspiring Stories of Legendary Widows
Purchasing the Legendary Widows: Stories of Legacy book is a meaningful choice for anyone who values inspiring biographies and seeks to find hope and strength through the stories of remarkable women. This book offers powerful accounts of widows who have turned their personal challenges into extraordinary achievements, providing readers with profound insights, motivation, and encouragement. It's a perfect gift for anyone navigating their own journey of resilience or for those who simply appreciate compelling and uplifting life stories.
100% of book proceeds go to supporting Modern Widows Club programs and services.
Our Work
Modern Widows Club empowers widows to rebuild their lives by providing support, resources, and a strong community focused on healing and growth.
Founder’s Story
Learn more about the reasons why Modern Widows Club was founded by Carolyn Moor in 2011.
Leadership
The leadership at Modern Widows Club is dedicated to guiding and inspiring widows through compassionate support and innovative initiatives.
FAQ
Widowhood brings many questions, and we’re here to offer answers. Click to explore the most common ones.
