Baltimore County Names 2023 Women of the Year

Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski and the Commission for Women today recognized three outstanding women during its 41st Annual Woman of the Year Awards Ceremony.

Baltimore County’s 2023 visionary women of Baltimore County are:

Woman of the Year: Arkia Wade

A healthcare executive for more than 20 years, Ms. Wade recently started Neighborhood Companions, a nonprofit organization offering transportation and companion services for seniors and disabled residents. A Dundalk resident, she is an active board member of the Turner Station Conservation Teams.

Woman Making a Difference: Dinorah Olmos

Following more than 30 years in the education sector, Ms. Olmos founded and serves as CEO of the Latino Education Advancement Fund (LEAF), a nonprofit focused on Latinos’ education and social impact through equity, access, and parent empowerment.

Young Woman of the Year: Samantha Warfel

Throughout her high school career, Ms. Warfel was involved in service and leadership initiatives with Baltimore County Student Councils, Maryland Association of Student Councils Executive Board, United Nations Girl Up organization, World Trade Center of Baltimore City and Women’s Housing Coalition of Baltimore. Ms. Warfel attend Yale University this fall, studying global affairs on a pre-law track.

Women of the Year Awards are given to County residents who have enhanced the lives of residents and made significant contributions in the community, workplace, or school to further the interests of women and children.