Influential Women Panel

Influential Women Panel Fundraiser

Join us for an evening of conversation, leadership, and community as we bring together influential women making an impact across advocacy, media, and public service.

Hosted at the historic Ashland Theatre, this special event will feature a candid panel discussion on leadership, advocacy, service, and creating change in our communities.

Panelists include:

Amanda Nelson

Amanda Nelson is an amateur historian, political commentator, and creator behind Amanda’s Mild Takes, a media platform that uses history, political science, and civics to help audiences understand how power operates in America. Through daily analysis and storytelling, she has built an engaged audience of more than one million followers seeking historical context, thoughtful discussion, and actionable civic engagement. Amanda is also the founder of YALLvote, a coalition of Southern content creators working to increase civic participation and engagement across the South.

Sue Fulton

Sue Fulton is an Army veteran, West Point graduate, public servant, and nationally recognized advocate for veterans and equality. A member of the first class of women admitted to West Point, she has spent decades breaking barriers in military and public service spaces. Sue previously served as Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs and has been a leading voice on military service, leadership, inclusion, and public policy. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to service and opening doors for future generations.

Lisa McLaughlin

Lisa McLaughlin is a mother, community advocate, and the founder and owner of the Northern Neck's only independent bookstore. Driven by a passion for literacy, civic engagement, and the power of place, she has transformed a love of books into a gathering place where community life is strengthened. Through her work, she regularly brings together neighbors with varying perspectives to engage in meaningful, productive conversation about the issues that matter most. Lisa serves on multiple community boards and is passionate about bringing the full joy of reading to a rural community — through author experiences, community reads, and opportunities to give back to those who need books most.

Elizabeth Beggs

Elizabeth Beggs is an Army veteran, foster mom, Business leader, and congressional candidate whose life has been shaped by service, leadership, and community. One of the early women integrated into combat arms, she served as a Tank Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Company Commander in Armor training units, helping lead during a historic period of military integration. 

Event Schedule:

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: VIP Meet & Greet + Photo Opportunity

6:00 PM: Doors Open

6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Panel Discussion

Expect meaningful conversation, audience engagement, and an opportunity to connect with women leading in different spaces while supporting the campaign.

📍 Ashland Theatre

📅 June 23

⏰ VIP: 5–6 PM | Doors: 6 PM | Panel Begins: 6:30 PM

tickets can be purchased with a check as well mailed to Elizabeth for Virginia, PO Box 871, Glen Allen, VA 23060.