The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors honored the late state Sen. Janet Howell on Tuesday, Aug. 25, recognizing the Democrat's 32-year career representing Wolf Trap, Reston and Tysons in the Virginia Senate.

Howell died Aug. 2 at age 82. Her 32nd Senate District included Wolf Trap and portions of McLean, placing much of the Vienna area under her representation from 1992 until her retirement in 2024.

"She was an institution," Board Chair Jeff McKay said at the tribute, as reported by FFXnow. "She spent three decades serving the residents of Fairfax County in many ways."

McKay pointed to Howell's work on county budget issues, mental health reforms and protections against family violence. He said she earned respect from members of both parties.

Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn, whose district covers Wolf Trap and Reston, said Howell had "a real impact in the community." He credited her with making a lasting difference for the county.

Howell's civic roots in Fairfax County predated her Senate career. She served as a PTA president and later as president of the Reston Community Association before winning her first Senate race in 1991.

In 2019, Howell became chair of the Virginia Senate Committee on Finance and Appropriations, giving her direct influence over state spending. She used that power to support local infrastructure, including the Washington & Old Dominion Trail pedestrian bridge over Wiehle Avenue in Reston, which opened in November 2024.

The bridge connects pedestrians and bicyclists between Reston Town Center and the Reston Town Center Metro station.

Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, a Republican, said Howell transcended party lines to work for the commonwealth's benefit. He called her "quite the leader."

Howell did not seek reelection in the 2023 general election, departing at the same time as Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw. She represented the 32nd District for 32 consecutive years.