VFRW HISTORY

We Have led Since 1953

VFRW Past Presidents

Honoring the Leaders Who Built Our Legacy

The Virginia Federation of Republican Women proudly recognizes the living Past Presidents whose leadership, dedication, and vision helped shape the strength and impact of our Federation. We are honored to celebrate their contributions and ensure their legacy continues to inspire future generations of Republican women.

Click the name below to read about previously featured Past Presidents.

Paula Willoughby

Jan Schar

Ellen Nau

Brenda Campbell

Charlotte Neal

Featured past president

Susan A. Cobb

Past President Spotlight: Growth & Service

VFRW President | 2022–2024

Overview

During Susan Cobb’s presidency, the Virginia Federation of Republican Women represented 47 clubs and 1,887 members across the Commonwealth. Her tenure focused on working, listening, learning, and recognizing the contributions Republican women can make in their communities while advancing VFRW’s mission to elect Republicans, educate the electorate, and unlock the potential of its members.

VFRW members were also actively engaged in advocating for the policy priorities of newly elected Governor Glenn Youngkin and had opportunities to meet and communicate with the Governor, First Lady Suzanne Youngkin, Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, and Attorney General Jason Miyares.

Leadership & Service

While serving as VFRW President, Susan represented the Federation through several Republican and NFRW leadership roles, including:

• Member, Republican Party of Virginia State Central Committee
• Member, NFRW Regents
• Member, NFRW Membership Committee
• Republican Women’s Federal Forum
• Member, VFRW Regents
• Member, Republican Party of Chesapeake and its Finance Committee

Key Initiatives

Susan’s presidency emphasized political advocacy, membership growth, and grassroots involvement. Key initiatives included:

• Advocating before the Virginia Senate and General Assembly for the Governor’s key initiatives and policies
• Working to regain a Republican majority in the Virginia Senate and increase the majority in the House of Delegates
• Expanding VFRW membership and establishing clubs in underrepresented areas
• Updating and distributing the VFRW Directory
• Increasing grassroots participation and involvement in election strike forces

Political Landscape

Susan began her presidency shortly after Glenn Youngkin became Virginia’s 74th Governor, taking office in January 2022 alongside Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears and Attorney General Jason Miyares.

At the time, Democrats held a 21–19 majority in the Virginia Senate, while Republicans controlled the House of Delegates. Virginia’s congressional delegation included six Democrats and five Republicans in the U.S. House, while Democrats held both U.S. Senate seats.

State Conventions

Two VFRW conventions were held during Susan’s presidency.

2023 Convention - Hotel Madison, Harrisonburg

Highlights included a welcome reception hosted by Senator and Mrs. Mark Obenshain at their home and appearances by:

• Attorney General Jason Miyares and his family
• Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears and Terrance Sears
• NFRW President Eileen Sobjack
• NFRW Regional Director Monica Kozlowski

2024 Convention - Hilton Norfolk The Main, Norfolk

Featured guests included:

• Secretary of the Commonwealth Kelly Gee
• Attorney General Jason Miyares
• Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears
• Congresswoman Jen Kiggans
• Former Congresswoman Thelma Drake
• RNC Chief Counsel for Election Integrity Christina Bobb

National Federation Convention

Susan represented VFRW at the 2023 NFRW Convention in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where speakers included Governor Kevin Stitt, RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel, Senator James Lankford, Riley Gaines, and other national and state leaders.

During the convention, Susan accepted several awards on behalf of VFRW:

• Betty Heitman Award for State Excellence
• First Place Political and Campaign Award for states with 30–49 clubs
• 14 individual club awards

Reflection

Susan Cobb’s presidency was defined by a commitment to rebuilding a positive and effective organization, supported by strong leadership and a vision for VFRW’s future centered on growth, service, mutual respect, and shared values.

Timeline