Politics & Government

Big Award for Local Woman

She was recognized by a New Hampshire congressman.

The following is a news release:

U.S. Representative Frank Guinta (R, NH-01) announced today the recipients of the very first women’s “Granite State Beacon Award.”  It was presented during the Women’s Job Fair that Guinta hosted in Manchester.

The inaugural award is shared by Florence Wiggin of Stratham and Jennifer Turco Beaudet of Goffstown.

Find out what's happening in Exeterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“A beacon gives light to others,” Representative Guinta explained.  “The Granite State Beacon Award recognizes New Hampshire women who are actively working to improve and expand opportunities for women, and who also serve as positive role models.  For some women, success is measured by professional accomplishments and advancement in the workplace.  For others, it’s offering a helping hand to neighbors through civic and charity work.  For many women, success includes raising happy, confident and proud children and nurturing them along the path to adulthood.  Because of the many contributions made by Florence and Jennifer, New Hampshire is a better place to live, work and call home.”

A total of 37 women were nominated for the “Granite State Beacon Award” by members of Congressman Guinta’s Women’s Advisory Committee. Nominees included business executives, artists, community and civic activists, charity volunteer workers, small business owners and many others.

Find out what's happening in Exeterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Florence Wiggin was selected for her wide array of community work. Besides being involved in her family’s egg business, she is a volunteer with Stratham Community Church, helps with the International Medical Equipment Collaboration, serves on the committee planning Stratham’s 300th birthday celebration and the Stratham Library’s centennial committee, serves on the New Hampshire Friendship Chorus Band, and somehow finds time to also serve on the Stratham Heritage Committee.

Jennifer Turco Beaudet was chosen in recognition of her remarkable story of overcoming repeated adversity. She is a survivor of both cancer and dating violence, and volunteers a great deal of her time and energy to help women who are struggling against both of those challenges. As a law school student, she also worked at Poverty Law Clinic as a Shelter Legal Services volunteer, and is currently with the Manchester office of Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer PC.

Representative Guinta said he hopes the award will become an annual tradition.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here