Featured Past President: Unity & Strength

Ellen Nau

VFRW President (2016-2018)

Overview

During Ellen’s presidency, the Virginia Federation of Republican Women focused on unity, engagement, and strengthening the organization during a challenging political climate. Her leadership emphasized bringing members together to advance the mission and goals of VFRW across the Commonwealth.

Political Landscape

Ellen served during the administration of Governor Terry McAuliffe, a period marked by policy differences between the Governor’s agenda and Republican priorities. During this time, VFRW remained committed to advancing Republican principles and supporting conservative leadership throughout Virginia.

Leadership Focus

A central priority of Ellen’s presidency was fostering unity within the Federation:

• Emphasized collaboration among clubs and members statewide

• Focused on the “greater good” of the organization

• Strengthened alignment around VFRW’s mission and goals

Her leadership helped ensure the Federation remained cohesive and effective during a politically divided time.

Conventions & Political Involvement

Ellen was deeply involved in both state and national Republican activities:

• Attended numerous VFRW and Republican Party conventions across Virginia, including:

  • Charlottesville

  • Roanoke

  • Richmond

  • Harrisonburg

• Participated in key historic conventions, including:

  • George Allen’s gubernatorial nominating convention

  • Oliver North’s Senate nominating convention

She also served in leadership roles at the local level:

• Vice Chairman, Chesterfield County Republican Committee (during George Allen convention)

• Chairman, Chesterfield County Republican Committee (during Oliver North convention)

At the national level:

• Served as a Virginia Delegate to the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, where President Donald Trump was nominated for his first term

National Federation Engagement

Ellen attended several National Federation of Republican Women conventions, including:

• Orlando, Florida

• Phoenix, Arizona (multiple conventions)

These experiences provided opportunities for both leadership development and fellowship among Republican women nationwide.

Fundraising & Events

One of the most notable events during her presidency was a successful fundraiser held at:

• Morais Vineyards and Winery, recognized for its beautiful setting and strong attendance

Ellen credited her Executive Board for their leadership and support, including:

• Janet Haley Varre, Event Chairman

• Dolores Switzer, Treasurer

State Conventions

Ellen chaired two successful VFRW conventions featuring prominent speakers:

• Roanoke Convention

  • Featured speaker: Detective Joe Kenda (“Homicide Hunter”)

• Richmond Convention

  • Featured speaker: Charlie Hurt, FOX News host

Her First Vice President, Mary Franklin, played a key role in securing these speakers and supporting convention success.

Reflection

Ellen’s presidency was defined by a commitment to unity, strong leadership, and active engagement in both state and national Republican efforts, ensuring VFRW remained a strong and effective organization during a challenging political period.

Featured Past President: Leadership & Resilience

Past President Spotlight: Leadership & Resilience

Charlotte Neal

VFRW President | 2000–2002

Overview

During Charlotte Neal’s presidency, the Virginia Federation of Republican Women entered a new century while navigating a period of historic national events, political engagement, and rapid technological change. Her leadership emphasized growth, service, and strong organizational involvement across the Commonwealth.

Political Landscape

Charlotte served during the administration of Governor James Gilmore, with John Warner and George Allen serving as Virginia’s United States Senators.

Her presidency coincided with several major national and global events, including:

• The beginning of the new millennium and Y2K
• The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
• The beginning of the war in Afghanistan following 9/11
• Significant global technological advances

Throughout this period, VFRW remained active in Republican political efforts and grassroots engagement.

Organizational Growth & Leadership

Under Charlotte’s leadership:

• VFRW grew to 63 clubs with more than 2,000 members
• She became the first female appointed as Temporary Chair of a Virginia State Republican Convention

Her presidency reflected continued growth and increased leadership opportunities for Republican women across Virginia.

Conventions & Political Involvement

Charlotte attended and participated in major Republican events at both the state and national levels, including:

• Virginia State Republican Convention (2000) – Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Republican National Convention (2000) – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, serving as a delegate

Two Virginia Republican state conventions were held during her tenure, including one at the Richmond Coliseum.

Fundraisers & Events

Several notable fundraisers and events were held during Charlotte’s presidency, including:

• Fundraisers hosted at Senator John Warner’s farm
• A fundraiser at the home of country music star and businessman Jimmy Dean

These events helped support Republican candidates and strengthen relationships across the Federation.

Reflection

Charlotte Neal’s presidency was marked by leadership during a historic and challenging period in American history while continuing to strengthen VFRW’s growth, visibility, and commitment to Republican grassroots involvement.

She often reminded members of the importance of the “3 R’s”:

• Respect for self
• Respect for others
• Responsibility for all our actions