The Wyoming Council for Women’s Issues is a 14-member council with representation from each of the nine Judicial Districts, four at large members, and a liaison from the Department of Workforce Services. The Governor appoints Council members through the Boards and Council application process.

The Council receives its funding from the Legislature and relies on numerous volunteer hours to carry out its work. 

OUR WORK

Annual Woman Entrepreneur Award: The Woman Entrepreneur Award recognizes women owned businesses in Wyoming and is designed to recognize the significant contribution female entrepreneurs make to Wyoming’s economy. 

Governor’s Woman of Distinction Award: The Governor’s Woman of Distinction award recognizes an extraordinary woman who has had significant positive impacts over her lifetime on women and families in Wyoming. 

WCW Has Helped Support Many Statewide Initiatives Over the Years Including: Status of Women in Wyoming Report, Leadership Wyoming Brio Collective, Community events & curriculum guide for “Who She Is” Documentary & Wyoming Women’s History House Events.

Timeline

1965

Governor Clifford Hansen issued a proclamation creating the Governor’s Commission on the State of Women, whereupon Wyoming became the 45th state to have such a commission.

1966

A study was conducted and presented to the governor. The report “Wyoming Women” recommended that the commission be a permanent and continuing entity and that appropriations be requested from the state.

1969

The Legislature passed a bill creating the Wyoming Commission for the Status of Women that would consist of women appointed by the governor, one from each judicial district and four members at large.

1973

The Legislature granted a general fund appropriation for the commission.

1977

The Legislature changed the name to the Wyoming Commission for Women.

1989

The commission became a part of the Department of Employment. The title of the commission was again changed and became the Wyoming Council for Women’s Issues (WCWI).

2000

Governor Geringer moved the WCWI to the Wyoming Business Council. 

2022

The Legislature moves WCWI to the Department of Workforce Services.