Becky Anderson Named 2025 Woman of Distinction
Becky Anderson, from Burlington, Iowa, has been named the 2025 Woman of Distinction by Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. Annually, a woman from the community is selected for her dedication to making the world a better place. On Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Catfish Bend Event Center, Becky will be recognized for her award at a community celebration.
Becky Anderson impacted her community through financial services and community revitalization. She became the first woman in Burlington to earn the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. She has used this background to pursue her true passion of being in service to others and her community. She has served on numerous boards in a leadership capacity. Serving as president of: the YWCA Board, the Heritage Trust Board, the Capitol Theater Foundation Board, the DPI Board, and serving currently as the head of the building committee on the Burlington STEM Foundation board.
Her visionary leadership was instrumental in the revitalization of downtown Burlington, most notably through her pivotal role in saving and reopening the historic Capitol Theater. This project stands as a testament to her dedication to preserving local history and enhancing the cultural landscape of the city. Beyond the Capitol Theater, Anderson has successfully spearheaded the renovation of several other downtown buildings, including: The Hedge Building, The Hawkeye Tin Shop (now Burlington Vintage & Co.), and The JC Penney Building. These projects have significantly contributed to the revitalization of Jefferson Street and the historic character of downtown Burlington.
Anderson's commitment to community extends beyond downtown revitalization. She has served on the Burlington City Council, the Vision Iowa Board, and currently serves on the City Planning Commission. Retired from the financial services industry, Anderson now dedicates her time to inspiring the next generation. She serves as Building Committee Chair for Inspiration Lab, a forthcoming children's STEM museum located downtown.
Furthermore, Anderson actively engages with young minds as a sponsor of the Tech Team at Notre Dame High School, where she assists students in planning and building projects. Her faith also plays a significant role in her life, as she serves on the Parish Council at Divine Mercy Parish and teaches faith formation classes.
“Becky’s dedication to making our community a better place makes her an excellent role model for all Girl Scouts in the region,” says Regional Director, Amber Rickeberg. “We are ecstatic to honor her this year.”
Previous women honored as the Woman of Distinction includes the late Jill Blackwood, the late Ruth C. Stein, Jane Adams, Janet McCannon, Dr. Frances Jackson, Karen Hassel, Donna Logan, the late Betty Thye, Dr. Beverly Simone, Terri Dowell, Teresa Colgan, Dr. JoEllen Hoth, Ann Menke, Martha Wolf, Amy O’Brien, Becky Rump, Kay Sackville, Tammy McCoy, Beth Fleming, Joyce Vance, Julie Anderson, and Amy Burkhart.
All community members are invited to Woman of Distinction on Thursday, April 27, 2024, at the Catfish Bend Event Center.
