Anna B. Billingsley, director of publications and design for the University of Mary Washington, will be honored by the Girl Scout Commonwealth Council of Virginia at the 10th annual Women of Distinction awards program at the university’s Jepson Alumni Executive Center on Thursday, September 16.
Billingsley is among 11 women recognized for their professional achievements and volunteer service in the greater Fredericksburg region. She is honored in the communications category for her ability to effectively convey information.
A member of the UMW staff since 2004, Billingsley oversees the editorial and design staff and edits the alumni magazine. Prior to her arrival at Mary Washington, Billingsley was editor of the University of Richmond alumni magazine. In addition to her publication leadership, Billingsley also taught journalism at Mary Washington and Richmond.
She previously held positions as a reporter and editor at several Virginia newspapers, including The Ledger-Star in Norfolk, the Richmond News Leader and Richmond Times -Dispatch, and The Free Lance-Star in Fredericksburg.
Billingsley serves as chair of Hope House, a nonprofit agency that provides safe transitional housing for homeless mothers and their children. In addition, she is a board member of the Society of Professional Journalists Foundation and an active member of Fredericksburg United Methodist Church. A former Girl Scout and local troop leader, she has been involved in planning and promoting the Women of Distinction awards program for 10 years.
Billingsley received a bachelor’s degree in English from the College of William and Mary and a master’s degree in journalism and public affairs from American University.
The other honorees are Maria Franklin, senior vice president of Union First Market; Karen Hedelt, director of economic development and tourism for the City of Fredericksburg; Jane A. Wallace, co-owner and president of RE/MAX Bravo; Gaye
Todd Adegbalola, musician and retired educator; Jewell F. Cunningham, educator in Fredericksburg Public Schools; Twyla G. DeMoranville, Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office detective; Fronce’ Wardlaw, executive director of project faith; Lorraine E. Flanders, technical partnering office outreach coordinator at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division; Mary Lou Gramann volunteer, advocate and educator at Friends of the Rappahannock and Girl Scouts; and Grace Anne Braxton, special Olympian.