Women Who Inspire Wednesday: Sharon Richards
Written by Program Coordinator, Chris Schnell
This week’s Women Who Inspire Wednesday features Sharon Richard, founder of YWCA Alaska, a longtime advocate and a quiet yet powerful leader whose legacy continues to shape our community. From helping launch the YWCA in 1989 and guiding its growth from a one-woman office to a staff of 14, to serving on the Anchorage School Board and championing women, children, and minority communities, Sharon’s influence runs deep. A recipient of the YWCA Woman of Achievement Award in 1999 and later inducted into the Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame in 2012, she embodies a lifetime of service, vision, and perseverance. In our conversation, Sharon reflected on the YWCA’s beginnings, the importance of relationships in leadership, and the personal joys that have grounded her throughout her journey.
Q: You’re one of the founders of YWCA Anchorage. Can you share how it all began?
A: There were six of us who met for two years before we ever took official steps. We had no money, but the National Executive Director offered us $20,000 to hire a part-time executive director, and that’s when I knew this was my job. Heather Flynn also helped us secure free office space downtown. Everything seemed to fall into place. We were officially incorporated in 1989.
Q: You were named a Woman of Achievement in 1999. What was that like?
A: Honestly, I was embarrassed since I was the executive director at the time! But my board surprised me with it, and I realized it was their way of saying they believed in me and appreciated what I had done to build the YWCA. That recognition meant a lot.
Q: How have you seen Alaska change regarding women’s leadership?
A: There are far more women leaders across business, nonprofits, and public service now than when I first began. The friendships and connections formed during that time remain among the greatest rewards.
Q: What advice would you give to today’s WOA nominees?
A: Continue the work you are doing, which is already impactful and what got you here.
Q: Is there something you wish you had learned earlier in life?
A: I wish I had understood the value of long-term goals. Growing up, expectations were more about marriage and family. I knew I wanted to go to college, but beyond that, I didn’t think ahead. Luckily, my high school principal helped me get a scholarship so I could be the first in my family to attend.
Q: Outside of your professional life, what brings you joy?
A: I love cooking, sewing, and teaching. Cooking for others has always been one of my love languages. For years, I taught wool applique at The Quilt Tree, and I’ve always enjoyed opportunities to share knowledge with others.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: Besides my children, the growth of YWCA Anchorage from a single employee to a staff of 14 remains my proudest achievement.
Closing Note
From building the YWCA out of her own kitchen to teaching classes simply because she loves sharing knowledge, Sharon Richards has shown what it means to lead with heart. Her humility, wisdom, and passion for community remind us that real change starts with relationships and a willingness to keep showing up. We’re grateful for Sharon’s legacy and the many women she continues to inspire.