QotM – Charleen Winters – December 2024

It’s time to shine the spotlight on our December Queen of the Month, Queen Charleen Winters, also known by her regal title, Queen Coronet. Her story is one of boundless energy, creativity, and dedication to the values of sisterhood and fun that make the Red Hat Society (RHS) so special.

Hailing from Long Beach, California, and growing up in Fresno, Queen Charleen’s life is a testament to hard work and perseverance. While pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Business, she simultaneously built a successful career in purchasing and contracts. Among her many achievements, her tenure at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) stands out, where she oversaw procurement for essential research divisions. One of her most rewarding accomplishments was transforming a struggling dental institute's purchasing department into an efficient, cost-saving operation.

Queen Charleen’s personal life is as inspiring as her professional one. Celebrating 29 years of marriage this December 5th, her love story with her husband began in the most unexpected of ways—through a personal ad in a local paper. Their first meeting at a mall bookstore turned into a two-hour conversation, a dinner date, and a lifetime of partnership.

Since joining RHS in 2005, Queen Charleen has embraced the sisterhood with her whole heart. She first encountered the Society while waiting for her dream home to be built in Florida. After connecting with Queen Mickey of the Roamin’ Red Hats, her journey of hatting fun began. Her first major event—a dazzling gathering of 400 Red Hatters hosted by Queen Marilyn Waltz—left her awestruck with its sea of red, purple, and sparkle.

As a Queen, her favorite role is mentoring new leaders. She delights in guiding them through the intricacies of managing chapters, navigating the RHS website, and planning engaging events. Her advice? Building a group with diverse personalities is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Her motto: “Never stop moving,” reflects her vibrant spirit, earning her the nickname “The Energizer Red Hatter.”

Queen Charleen’s hobbies are as dynamic as her personality. She loves crafting, creating stunning wreaths, centerpieces, and unique favors for events. She also enjoys playing Hand and Foot with her Red Hat friends and hosting monthly birthday celebrations, which she alternates planning with fellow Queen Sheila Harden. Living on 10 acres of land, Queen Charleen stays active with her loyal dog, who ensures she logs her 10,000 steps daily while exploring the vast open spaces around her home.

Her most memorable RHS event? A convention at the Gaylord in Orlando, where she was captivated by the breathtaking sight of countless Queens gathered in one place and danced the nights away with new friends.

Queen Charleen’s words to live by are as empowering as her presence:

• “Don’t let someone else’s opinion of you become your reality.”
• “If you build it, they will come.”

Her wisdom for fellow Red Hatters is simple yet profound: enjoy every moment of hatting, embrace the friendships you make, and create a chapter filled with fun and laughter. When faced with negativity, she has a trademark response: a smile, a wave, and a graceful exit.

Thank you, Queen Charleen Winters, for reminding us that life is all about experiences and joy. We are honored to celebrate your vibrant contributions as our December Queen of the Month. Keep energizing us all!