The Antoinette Brown Blackwell Society has named Emily Richardson the 2026 Henrietta Woman of the Year.
In reviewing Emily’s nomination, the selection committee took into account her volunteer work in the community, her presence in the Rush-Henrietta school district, and her personal commitment to her family.
Emily has been involved with the Relief Society (Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints) for decades. She has been an officer since 2010: VP, Service Leader and currently President. They offer spiritual support, strengthen families and homes, assist with all needs, from mental health and behavior to rides, school supplies, clothes and food. Emily has volunteered many thousands of hours.
Emily has been active in parent groups at Winslow, Roth and Sperry; she was instrumental in reorganizing the PTOs when the school district was reformed in 2015-6. She served as a parent leader for Scouting and Odyssey of the Mind groups as well as RH Singers. She volunteers with the theater and sport programs.
Emily is a quiet, trustworthy person who leads by inspiring others to do their best. She remains calm under difficult circumstances, graceful and empathetic. She simply sees what needs to be done and arranges it or does it herself. She balances care with empowerment, encouraging women toward independence. A mother of five, Emily has raised her children to be people of outstanding character, unselfish, trustworthy, non-judgmental.
The Relief Society was founded in 1842 as the women’s organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints. They aligned with early suffrage organizations, advocating for the rights of women. Their commitment to action echoes many of Antoinette Brown Blackwell’s beliefs.