Patricia "Pat" Mathews
Class of '88 & LGW Board Member
1946-2026

Leadership Greater Washington is saddened to share the passing of Patricia “Pat” Mathews (’88), LGW graduate, board member, and longtime champion of the LGW mission. Pat passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, following a brief battle with breast cancer, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Greater Washington region she called home for more than six decades. In keeping with her character and lifelong dedication to helping others, Pat expressed the hope that sharing her experience would encourage others to pursue timely health screenings.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Pat earned her undergraduate degree from George Washington University in 1968 and later completed graduate study in urban planning at Howard University. Coming of age in Washington, DC during the civil rights movement, her early experiences shaped a lifelong dedication to racial and social justice and to improving the lives of people across the region.

Pat’s distinguished career culminated in more than twenty years as the founding President of the Northern Virginia Health Foundation, where she championed the advancement of health equity. Under her leadership, the foundation directed more than $17 million in grants to nonprofit organizations working to expand access to care and address systemic barriers within the health system. She retired in 2024 after a career defined by impact, integrity, and vision.

Pat remained deeply connected to Leadership Greater Washington throughout her life, serving as a board member and trusted voice within the community.

“Pat left a deep imprint on our community and on Leadership Greater Washington. She embodied the spirit of LGW — a commitment to service, to connection, and to lifting others. Her warmth, generosity, and belief in the power of people coming together to strengthen our region will remain part of the fabric of this community.”
— Kathy Hollinger (’04), LGW Board Chair

“The impact of Pat Mathews’ work will ripple through this region for years to come — in the policies shaped, the organizations strengthened, and the leaders she quietly influenced along the way.”
— Alex Orfinger (’98), LGW Immediate Past Board Chair

A public celebration of Pat’s life will be held in the coming months, and her full obituary can be viewed here.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Girl Scouts of the Nation’s Capital, in honor of Pat’s lifelong commitment to expanding opportunities for women and girls.