The presence of feminine energy in the cannabis community is undeniable! Let’s not forget that the beloved cannabis bud we smoke comes distinctly from a female plant. Yet long before today’s most innovative women-owned cannabis brands and businesses, many women played a pivotal role in paving the cannabis movement.
Let’s embrace the history of feminine energy in cannabis and explore how these influential women have been changing the game.
Recognizing Some of the Most Notable & Influential Women in Cannabis:
Mary Pryor
Mary Pryor is the Co-Founder of Cannaclusive, an organization that champions inclusivity and diversity in the cannabis industry. She is a leading voice in making the media and cannabis industry a more inclusive and accepted space, uplifting audiences through empowering messaging.
She also serves as Chief Marketing Officer for Tonic CBD and Tricolla Farms and holds leadership roles with Minorities for Medical Marijuana. Mary Pryor has worked for major brands across music, media, technology, and marketing industries – such as Sony Music Group, Viacom, Attention PR, City Parks Foundation CBS News, and Rolling Stone.
Through speaking engagements and consulting firms like WeFancy and UrbanSocialista, Mary Pryor is a cannabis entrepreneur empowering communities to harness digital tools for social change.
Nancy Whiteman
Celebrated as “The Queen of Cannabis,” Nancy Whiteman serves as the esteemed co-founder and CEO of Wana Brands, a prominent cannabis edibles brand renowned for its market dominance since 2010. Thanks to their meticulous formulation, use of all-natural ingredients, and focus on precise cannabis dosing, Wana Gummies are favored by consumers across the United States and Canada.
Wana’s commitment to product development has earned this edibles brand a loyal following – complete with a diverse array of flavors and effects that cater to different preferences and needs, including options for sleep, relaxation, energy, or focus.
During her time as CEO, Nancy Whiteman has received numerous prestigious accolades in recognition of her impactful contributions and leadership.
The Women Behind the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJCRC)
Helping to shape the thriving New Jersey cannabis industry scene are three influential women who have recently announced their leadership of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJCRC).
These women in the NJCRC leadership – Chairwoman Dianna Houenou, and Commissioners Krista Nash and Maria Del Cid-Kosso – play a pivotal role in overseeing the new legal cannabis market in New Jersey; establishing everything from cannabis policies, regulations, and guidelines that impact how the plant is cultivated, distributed, and sold.
Dianna Houenou (NJCRC Chairwoman)
As the Chairwoman of the NJCRC, Dianna Houenou brings extensive experience in policy-making and social justice advocacy. Her previous background highlights Houenou as a senior policy advisor to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. She also focused on issues such as racial justice and criminal law reform when serving as counsel to New Jersey’s American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
As the Chairwoman of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, Dianna has been a vocal advocate for cannabis equity and fairness in the state’s legalization and regulation efforts. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping policies that prioritize social justice. She is particularly focused on ensuring communities disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs have access to business opportunities in the legal cannabis market.
Krista Nash (NJCRC Commissioner)
Krista Nash brings a background in social work and behavioral health to the table, with a strong focus on rehabilitation and recovery programs. She is known for her volunteer work in various regions, where she was involved in helping individuals reintegrate into society after incarceration.
Her expertise in human services gives her a unique perspective on the cannabis industry’s potential for social and economic impact.
Maria Del Cid-Kosso (NJCRC Commissioner)
Maria Del Cid-Kosso’s background is in public policy and government relations, where she worked with the New Jersey Department of Health and served in the New Jersey State Legislature. This grew her passion for consumer safety and education, pushing for strict cannabis product safety standards and clear labeling to ensure that consumers are informed and protected. She also advocates for expanding cannabis access for medical patients, ensuring equitable access to New Jersey residents seeking cannabis for therapeutic use.
Together, the women in NJCRC leadership are playing a critical role in shaping the future of cannabis in New Jersey. The diverse backgrounds of these women allow them to approach cannabis regulation from a larger, equitable, and responsible perspective – focusing on social justice, economic opportunity, public health, and consumer safety.
Sparking Stardom & Support for Women in Cannabis
Alongside these fabulous women who are influencing the cannabis industry, Midnight Greens is proud to be a woman-owned dispensary in New Jersey.
As a great mom, wife, and tenacious breast cancer survivor, the background of Midnight Greens’ Founder, Cindy, fuels our cannabis brand story. Her strength and courage are celebrated through the power of following your dreams, expressing your desires openly, and flourishing through the ups and downs of life.
Our Washington Township dispensary prides itself on offering a safe and inclusive environment for all – one where you can access a wide selection of cannabis products and explore the healing power of the plant.
Want more empowering cannabis insight & education? Read our blog page! Shop our full dispensary menu to browse our stellar selection of cannabis products.
The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
