ArtServe recently hosted the Broward County Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) Women’s History Month Reception, celebrating 18 extraordinary women who have made significant contributions in education, mentorship and leadership. The event, held at ArtServe’s Fort Lauderdale location, was part of a larger celebration for National Women’s History Month.
Among the honorees were Dr. Violina Bhattacharyya, a multilingual pediatrician with 24 years of experience in adolescent medicine and pediatric gastroenterology. Known for her compassionate care and professionalism, she is a five-star provider who personally administers vaccines and builds strong relationships with both children and their parents.
Maria Rodriguez, Pembroke Pines’ first Hispanic woman commissioner and Broward County’s youngest elected official, was also recognized for her work in communications and civic engagement. A passionate advocate for youth and Hispanic representation, she is committed to building a safe, inclusive, and vibrant community.
Linda Taylor, CEO of H.O.M.E.S., Inc., was honored for her more than two decades of leadership in the nonprofit sector, where she has championed affordable housing and economic empowerment for at-risk residents across Broward County.
The 2025 theme, “Moving Forward Together: Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” highlighted the powerful influence of women committed to empowering future generations. The honorees were celebrated for their outstanding work in shaping their communities through education, mentorship and leadership.
The evening included opening remarks from ArtServe leadership and a formal presentation of the honorees. A special fireside chat with Lisa Johnson, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, offered attendees a thought-provoking conversation on the ongoing importance of women’s contributions to society. The event drew a diverse group of community leaders, advocates, and artists who came together to recognize the accomplishments of these remarkable women.
For more information about ArtServe and its initiatives, visit www.artserve.org.
About ArtServe
Named a “Top-Rated Nonprofit” by Great Nonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews of charities and nonprofits, Fort Lauderdale-based ArtServe is an award-winning arts incubator that is advancing the arts for social good as a creative laboratory and hub for experimental artists committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Now in its 36th year, ArtServe has won several awards for innovation in the arts and is supported in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council and the Community Foundation of Broward. Most recently, ArtServe was named 2025 Non-Profit Organization of the Year: The Arts at the Community Care Plan Non-Profit Awards, hosted by 211 Broward. Each year, ArtServe programs contribute tangibly to the region’s economy, helping 2,000+ artists sell their work, build businesses and engage the community. To do that, ArtServe secures financial support through donations, sponsorships and memberships.
