Veterans' Organization Spotlight: Women’s Army Corps–Army Women United, Northern Virginia Chapter 33
In honor of National Veterans and Families Month, GlobalMindED proudly features the Women’s Army Corps–Army Women United (WAC–AWU) Northern Virginia Chapter 33, led by President Stephanie Lynn Mitchell. This extraordinary chapter exemplifies the enduring strength, service, and sisterhood of Army women—past, present, and future. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, Chapter 33 honors the legacy of pioneering women soldiers while empowering today’s veterans to continue leading with courage, compassion, and purpose. Their work stands as a living tribute to the guiding principle: “We served then, we serve now.”
Tell us about your organization’s mission and purpose.
The Women’s Army Corps–Army Women United (WAC–AWU) Northern Virginia Chapter 33 exists to honor, preserve, and advance the legacy of Army women—past, present, and future. Our mission is to connect generations of women who have served, support those transitioning to civilian life, and continue the Army tradition of “service before self” through volunteerism, education, and advocacy.
As Chapter President, I have the privilege of leading an extraordinary group of women veterans who continue to make a difference long after their military service. Together, we uphold the WAC legacy of excellence, integrity, and leadership while empowering the next generation to rise and serve with pride.
How has your chapter evolved or grown under your leadership?
Since taking office in 2023, Chapter 33 has entered a season of revitalization and renewed visibility. We’ve expanded membership, strengthened partnerships, and created new pathways for education, historical recognition, and community outreach.
Our chapter honors the pioneering women of the Women’s Army Corps while embracing today’s diverse Army women—officers, NCOs, retirees, and recruits alike. Through collaboration, mentorship, and storytelling, we bridge generations and ensure that the voices of military women remain visible and valued.
We also work with our national organization to promote inclusive representation and a culture of belonging. Under this renewed focus, Chapter 33 has modernized bylaws, refined board roles, and developed committees focused on strategic planning, outreach, and scholarship development—strengthening our impact locally and nationally.
What impact has your organization had on the community?
Our chapter’s impact reaches across Northern Virginia and beyond. Members take part in ceremonies, community service, and educational programs that highlight women’s military contributions.
Recent highlights include:
- The Hello Girls Plaque Dedication at the U.S. Army Museum, Fort Belvoir.
- The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion (Six Triple Eight) Forever Stamp campaign and commemorations.
- Wreath-layings, memorial dedications, and programs honoring women veterans.
- Scholarship and recognition initiatives supporting Army women and their descendants.
- Collaborations with veteran-serving nonprofits promoting wellness, leadership, and education.
Every effort reflects our guiding principle: “We served then, we serve now.”
Which programs or initiatives best represent your chapter today?
- WWI Hello Girls Legacy Project: Advocating for national recognition and celebrating their Congressional Gold Medal.
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6888th Legacy Project: Honoring the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas during WWII. (Forever Stamp Project)
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Scholarship & Recognition Programs: Supporting the academic and professional growth of Army women and their families.
- Center for Development & Civic Engagement (CDCE): Partnering with organizations to uplift veterans and their loved ones.
- WAC–AWU National Honor Guard: Representing the organization at Washington, D.C., Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies, including the Parade of Colors and wreath-layings at the Military Women’s Memorial.
What drives your leadership as Chapter President?
Leadership, to me, means serving with courage, empathy, and purpose. Being a kind leader is about doing what’s right—even when it’s hard—and leading with integrity and compassion. My goal is to uphold tradition while ensuring every member feels valued, included, and inspired to keep serving in new ways.
What drives me most is the legacy of the women who came before us—the pioneers who opened doors and the sisters who stand beside us today. We owe it to them to keep their stories alive and their service honored.
How can GlobalMindED and partners collaborate with or support your work?
GlobalMindED can help amplify our mission by:
- Building partnerships that elevate women veterans into education and leadership pipelines.
- Supporting storytelling and scholarship initiatives that preserve military women’s legacies.
- Providing platforms for veteran women leaders to mentor and inspire future generations.
- Expanding awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion across the veteran community.
By partnering with networks like GlobalMindED, we can scale our outreach, connect across generations, and ensure that Army women’s service is never forgotten—only celebrated.
Closing Reflection
Under the leadership of President Stephanie Lynn Mitchell, the WAC–AWU Northern Virginia Chapter 33 stands as a living bridge between history and hope—honoring the past while shaping the future. Through advocacy, education, and unity, Chapter 33 embodies the enduring spirit of Army women everywhere: strong, resilient, and ready to serve again.
Contact President Stephanie Lynn Mitchell and learn more about Women's Army Corps-Army Women United:
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President Stephanie Lynn Mitchell on LinkedIn
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To support our outreach and scholarship programs visit their website
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Women's Army Corps-Army Women United Website
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