Judy Heffernan was, and still is, many things to many women: Business Leader, Friend, Confidant, and most definitely a Mentor. Judy took boundless interest in the entrepreneurial dreams and passions of women, young and old. Humbly and out of her desire to see others succeed, Judy acted as a platform that empowered and motivated women to go after their dreams of becoming an entrepreneur. She was the conduit that connected women with the “who’s who” in the community and often advocated on their behalf.
Judy was once asked why she worked so hard, and why she put so much of herself into her job. Her response: “Because I love what I do. Because I get so much joy out of watching people’s dreams come true.” The Judy Heffernan Award, organized by the Women’s Business Network, recognizes a woman from our community who exemplifies the virtues that Judy embodied.
At the Community Foundation, the Judy Heffernan Fund continues her legacy by making yearly grants to YWCA’s GirlSpace program. Donations supporting Judy’s legacy in our community are always welcome.