Volunteers are the heart and soul of any volunteer organization, and the League of Women Voters of Alachua County (LWVAC) is no exception. While many volunteers are visible in their roles as leaders, advocates, and organizers, there are also those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the organization run smoothly. These unsung heroes often perform critical tasks essential to the success of the organization. As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, it is important to recognize and thank these dedicated individuals for their selfless service and the vital role they play in advancing the mission of the LWVAC. Without their hard work and commitment, the organization would be unable to achieve its goals and make a meaningful impact in the community.
During this Volunteer Appreciation Week, we thank all of our volunteers and would like to introduce you to:
These are just a few of the volunteers who you may not know but play an important role in LWVAC and the community. If you meet them, be sure to thank them for their service.
What to get involved? info [at] lwv-alachua.org (Contact us)!
Not a member yet? Join today!
Lori Erickson
About
Lori first became a League member while living in Pasco County. Since joining LWVAC, she spearheaded the League at the Library program, coordinated tabling supplies, helped with the Municipal Election Forums, and has been a frequent tabler.
Favorite thing about the League
I love that every League event allows me to become a teacher and a student of civic engagement – educating voters while working alongside and learning from amazing advocates and activists.
Fun Fact
Before embarking on a career as a theatre educator, Lori worked as an actor and comedian.
Suzy Hutto
About
Suzy actively participates in both the Gun Violence Prevention and Safety and Voter Services committees and can often be seen around town tabling for LWVAC at various events.
Favorite thing about the League
Volunteering with the League provides many opportunities to work with and learn from other League members who share a passion for empowering voters and defending democracy.
Fun Fact
My daughter and two granddaughters are active members of the “LWV Pikes Peak Region” in Colorado Springs.
Rhonda Sibilia
About
I joined the League last year to support a better-educated voting population and to help ensure our rights in the US constitution. It's been a great way to make new friends after moving permanently to Gainesville 2 1/2 years ago.
I also volunteer regularly as an usher for UF Performing Arts and The Hippodrome Theater, on air for WUFT FM fund drives, and assisting in the front office of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.
Fun Fact
I was a contestant on "Wheel of Fortune" in 2003 and still watch the show regularly.
Gwen Wagner
About
Gwen joined LWVAC in order to help preserve our democratic principles particularly through voting rights. She co-chaired the Voter Services committee for a two-year term. Gwen also facilitated our local league’s participation in VOTE411. Leading up to 2026 mid-term elections, Gwen is representing our League as a member of a voting rights restoration coalition.
Favorite thing about the League
Hands down, the many brilliant, committed, tireless members are my favorite part of belonging to the League. In addition, I have gained new and strong ties to Gainesville and Alachua County.
Fun Fact
I am a HUGE Gator Softball fan.
Rachalle Way
About
Rachalle joined LWVAC as a graduate student at UF and has been helping with graphic design and spearheading the launch of our Instagram account (follow us: @alachuacountylwv).
Favorite thing about the League
Being a part of the League has allowed me to learn so much about what's happening in my local community, and I love working in the background to support the various teams through design.
Fun Fact
In her spare time, Rachalle loves to refurbish old furniture.
LWV @ SF Officers
About
Alexzandra Growe, Treasurer; Emmy Scott, Senator; and Gianna Rivera, President are recognized for their commitment to the League of Women Voters chapter at Santa Fe College and their active engagement in Lobby Days with LWVFL this past March in Tallahassee! They researched bills, lobbied, sat in on committees, learned League priorities, and committed themselves to the mission of active engagement in democracy! This has been their favorite learning experience about the League so far!
Fun Facts
Alex is an avid animal lover and works at the local shelter.
Emmy is a long term and dedicated leader in Girl Scouts.
Gianna is passionate about becoming a physical therapist.
Leah Edwards
About
Leah began working with the League as an Educational Intern for the Right to Clean Water Act as a college freshman. Motivated by gathering petitions and speaking with constituents, she became passionate about promoting young voices within the county League, eventually serving as Secretary for the UF LWV chapter. Follow them on Instagram @ufleagueofwomenvoters.
Favorite thing about the League
The League has always emphasized the importance of young people taking part in democracy. Through their support, I have been able to empower myself, educate my peers, and advocate for my community.
Fun Fact
Leah’s commitment to democracy extends to her professional role as a Civic Engagement Student Assistant at UF’s Bob Graham Center for Public Service, where she works to boost student voter participation across campus.
