Brittany: A New Generation of Leadership in the UDC
Like many historic organizations, the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) faces the dual challenge of attracting younger members while confronting modern misconceptions. Women like Brittany are correcting the misunderstandings—through action, compassion, and a commitment to history and service.
Raised in Ohio, Brittany brings a 21st-century spirit to a legacy organization. She joined the UDC as a young adult, becoming a member of her mother’s Chapter. “It was something we could do together,” she says, recalling those early days fondly. What started as a family connection quickly grew into a personal mission.
A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Brittany joined the military just a month after graduating from high school. Although she originally hoped to play in the Marine Corps Band, she was instead selected for the highly technical and demanding role of air traffic control.
That opportunity launched a career path in civilian air traffic control, where she eventually moved into leadership roles. Along the way, she earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational management and a master’s degree in mental health counseling—credentials that reflect her drive, empathy, and long-term goal of supporting others as a grief counselor.
In 2024, Brittany stepped into a leadership role that embodies her service-oriented spirit. A UDC chapter in Columbus, Ohio, nearly two hours from her home—was in danger of folding due to leadership burnout.
Brittany didn’t hesitate. She became chapter president, reinvigorating the group with fresh energy and vision. Under her leadership, the chapter holds regular monthly meetings, hosts educational programs, honors veterans with Military Service Awards, and engages actively with the community.
Brittany’s impact doesn’t stop there. She’s the current UDC Division President for Ohio, overseeing all four state chapters. Nationally, she serves on several committees, including the New Business Committee, acts as treasurer for the 4th Great Granddaughters Club, and is president of the President’s Council.
One of Brittany’s special passions is Camp Chase Confederate Cemetery, a historic site in Columbus that once served as a prison camp for Confederates, both soldiers and civilians. Since 1897, Ohio UDC members have decorated the graves of these Southerners who died far from home. Responsibility for planning the annual memorial has passed to a local historical society when aging members could no longer coordinate the service.
Brittany is a fierce advocate for its preservation and educational value. “I love the history, and believe in honoring the past, even the complicated parts,” she explains.
Why She Joined—and Why It Matters
“I’m a UDC member because I enjoy the history, I like to honor my Southern ancestors—and honestly, it’s fun,” Brittany says. “I’ve met the most amazing, smart, and talented women through this organization. When my mom had cancer, we received a shoebox full of cards from members across the country. These are deeply kind, generous people.”
Brittany is also candid about the challenges UDC has faced, particularly in recent years. “The biggest misconception is that we’re racist or that we can’t acknowledge the complexity of the past,” she says. “That’s just not true. We’ve been wrongly associated with hate groups. We are not affiliated with them in any way. At the end of the day, we’re Americans—and part of being American is learning from history, not erasing it.”
Looking to the Future
For young women considering membership, Brittany offers a compelling vision. “The UDC gives you a chance to connect with history, serve your community, and build friendships with women who care deeply about this country,” she says. “We need more voices, more ideas, and more energy to carry this organization forward.”
She believes the future of the UDC lies in bridging divides—North and South, past and present—and embracing the values of service, remembrance, and unity. “We need to teach the next generation the importance of knowing where you come from,” Brittany says. “You can be proud of your roots and still grow into something new.”
In her free time, Brittany enjoys collecting dolls, antiquing, thrifting, and participating in historical reenactments, often dressed in authentic period attire. It’s a hobby that reflects her unique blend of tradition and individuality—qualities that make her an inspiring example of what the modern UDC woman can be.
