As we celebrate 15 years of empowering women, NeW caught up with the chapter where it all started, NeW at the University of Virginia. Learn about the great work these women are doing on campus and how they are keeping the legacy of NeW alive at UVA.
Meet Katie Robbins, Sophia Benevento, Katerina Dorian, Casey Rowzee, Chloe Sparwath, Andrea Hitt – the executive board of NeW at UVA.
What is it like to be part of the NeW legacy and continuing the chapter at UVA where it all started?
Being a part of the NeW legacy and continuing the chapter at UVA is a real honor for us. Considering the lengths it took Karin to start the group and seeing how alive it is today, 15 years later, says so much about the strength of conservative women standing together. Knowing the torch has been passed down to us by the founder herself makes our experience with NeW and the appointment of our next leaders so much more significant. We are committed to continuing Karin’s legacy and, more importantly, carrying on our shared conservative values with dignity and confidence.
What has been your chapter’s favorite event to host?
Our favorite event to host was not necessarily our biggest, but it was certainly the most developmental. We hosted Heather Pfitzenmaier, Director of Strategic Engagement for NeW, for a professional development workshop with our members. We met at Mellow Mushroom near campus and sat for hours getting to know each other and receiving loads of wisdom and encouragement from Heather. She offered guidance for our resume development, internship opportunities, as well as job searching. Today, because of that meeting, our Creative Director, Andrea Hitt, is interning in Washington, DC this semester with the Heritage Foundation. Not only did Andrea get this internship, but our Secretary, Katerina Dorian, served as a NeW intern this past summer. The event with Heather has been our favorite because we have seen the impact of it play out right before our eyes, which has demonstrated the true value of being a part of NeW.
What does it mean to be conservative women?
To us, being conservative women means loving and respecting ourselves, others, and our country. We care about the future of our nation and its people. We believe in a limited government that is for the people, by the people. Conservative women are diverse in our beliefs, ideas, and values, but are tied together by our ability to choose how we see the world. We take a stand against the prevailing narrative that all women must be liberal and if not, they are both ignorant and misguided. We are intelligent, informed, engaged, and confident women. As conservatives, we are proud to exercise our right to vote and not afraid to speak out about our opinions.
Learn how you can get involved with the chapter on your campus or find out how you can bring NeW to your school. Contact Vanessa Rivera, NeW Campus Program Coordinator, if you have any questions.
