In Tribute: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Jane Woods, Local Champion for Health Care and Former NVHF Board Chair

The Northern Virginia Health Foundation (NVHF) honors the life and legacy of the Honorable Jane Woods, an NVHF Board member and former Board chair who passed away on July 18, 2022 at age 75. She will be remembered in Northern Virginia for her many years of public service and dedication to health care, especially for seniors.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague Jane Woods,” said Patricia Mathews, president and CEO of the Northern Virginia Health Foundation. “As a Board member and Board chair, Jane served the foundation with a sincere commitment to NVHF’s vision for a healthier, more equitable Northern Virginia, and her legacy as a leader in our region should continue to inspire us all."

Ms. Woods served in the Virginia House of Delegates and the Virginia State Senate, where she chaired the Senate Committee on Education and Health. She also served as Secretary of Health and Human Resources. Prior to these roles, she taught in Fairfax County public schools for almost 20 years. 

As a respected public leader in Northern Virginia, she was recognized for her leadership and service with numerous organizations throughout her career, including with the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia, Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, Virginia Health Quality Center and the National Advisory Board for Disability Services. 

Ms. Woods earned a bachelor’s degree from American University. Her graduate work at various universities was in education administration, law, and business administration.