As Black History Month comes to an end, the Junior League of Annapolis (JLA) reflects upon individuals who have made significant contributions to our organization and the Anne Arundel community. Celebrating the accomplishments of female African American leaders is within the heart of our mission. We are committed to a membership and outreach that exemplifies the rich diversity of the community we serve.

“When I think of JLA, I think of conscious and intentional action,” shared Calandra Dixon Layne, Past President and first African American President of JLA. “I think of our collective responsibility to serve. One of my favorite quotes is that of our Founder, Mary Harriman, ‘We have the responsibility to act, and we have the opportunity to conscientiously act to affect the environment about us.’”

Photo by David Trozzo Photography

Layne adds, “Whether it be fundraising to support the most vulnerable populations of our community, providing hands-on training and experience for the next cohort of board directors, or bringing education and awareness to current and aspiring leaders across Anne Arundel County – I am proud of how JLA leans in with action and the conscientious responsibility to serve.”

JLA continues to champion these values of unity, service, and leadership, and welcome all women who value our mission. The Junior League of Annapolis made a commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in 2019 and created a DEI Officer position on the Board. In 2022, JLA added ‘Belonging’ to its diversity commitment to affirm the organization’s devotion to creating an environment of inclusion and cultivating a culture of belonging.

In November 2023, JLA moved to make the DEIB committee a permanent placement which will align DEIB council members to serve as liaisons to other JLA councils. We look forward to planning and implementing more diversity-related activities, programs, and events in the future. 

We honor these leaders not just in February but every day by embodying the values that they exemplify—service, leadership, and a deep commitment to the community. 

###

About Junior League of Annapolis

Junior League of Annapolis, Inc. is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. It reaches out to all women of any race, religion, or national origin who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to voluntarism.