Ploughshares Fund Honors Rebecca Wood Watkin: 1913-2010

Becky, a life-long philanthropist and political activist, passed away at the age of 97 on December 19, 2010 at her home in La Jolla, California.

After becoming one of the first women to receive a bachelor’s degree in architecture, Becky began working as a draftswoman in Sausalito, later opening her own practice. In the 1970’s, she represented a leading voice in the push for environmentally conscious development as a member of the Marin County Planning Commission. Becky also served as a dedicated advocate for Democratic political candidates, acting as a precinct leader for John F. Kennedy and also as a leader in the local campaigns for several other presidential hopefuls. In 1976, she ran Jimmy Carter’s primary campaign and served as a delegate in the Democratic National Convention. Becky was named California Legislature Woman of the Year for her district in 1997.

Ploughshares Fund is forever indebted to our dear friend Becky for the unwavering support she provided starting in the beginning days of our organization and spanning nearly thirty years. Her passion and commitment to promote the vision of a nuclear weapon-free world holds a place in all of Ploughshares Fund’s victories, both past and yet to come.

Make a gift in honor of Becky to help continue on her hope and vision for a more peaceful world.