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3/2/2026
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Media Advisory: Legislators host panel discussion for International Women’s Day
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STATE HOUSE — The Women’s Fund of Rhode Island will join the Rhode Island General Assembly in celebration of International Women’s Day for a panel discussion hosted by Rep. Kathleen A. Fogarty and Sen. Alana M. DiMario tomorrow, Tuesday March 3 at 3 p.m. in the State Room on the second floor of the State House.
“Our small state is so lucky that these accomplished women choose to call Rhode Island home, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to host them at the State House to learn from their work on some of the most pressing issues affecting our state and the world at large,” said Senator DiMario (D-Dist. 36, Narragansett, North Kingstown, New Shoreham).
Said Representative Fogarty (D-Dist. 35, South Kingstown), “As we focus on the extensive contributions of women to the fields of health care, economics and environmentalism, we are truly honored to welcome these women whose collective expertise is shaping the future of Rhode Island.”
The theme for the panel discussion is “Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” spotlighting local women leaders in environmental, economic, and social justice. The discussion will be moderated by Women’s Fund CEO Kelly Nevins.
“It is an honor to share the work of these amazing women leaders who are making a huge impact in Rhode Island,” said Nevins.
After the discussion, the Women’s Fund will be honored on the House floor during the day’s session.
This panel will highlight several women leaders who are creating a sustainable future for Rhode Island:
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Quatia Osorio is the executive director of the Perinatal Education Center, which provides expansive, accessible maternal healthcare for diverse populations. They specifically advocate for certified professional midwives and address the Black maternal health crisis.
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Weayonnoh Nelson-Davies is executive director of the Economic Progress Institute, which advocates for economic security and opportunity for Rhode Islanders.
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Priscilla de la Cruz is director of sustainability for the city of Providence, and advocates for environmental protection in the state.
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Maria Kasparian is chief of staff at Edesia Nutrition, which aims to prevent and eradicate malnutrition throughout the world.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Women’s Fund invests in women and girls through research, advocacy, grant making, and strategic partnerships designed to achieve gender equity. The organization will be honored directly following the panel on the House floor through a special resolution that singles out key organizational leaders, including Nevins; Angela Lima, chief of government relations; Julie DiBari, board member and past chair of the Policy and Advocacy Committee; and Lisa Jones, board member, Women’s Policy Institute alumna and current chair of the Policy and Advocacy Committee.
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
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