American Association of Variable Star Observers
Willson has spent almost 20 years with the American Astronomical Society, being part of the council (1993-1996), the publication board (2006-2010), and vice president (2009-2012). Through October 2004, she served as a council member of the American Association of Variable Star Observers for 4 terms, a senior vice president for 2 terms, president for 2 years, and an ex-president for 2 years. Willson was also on the Board of Directors of the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy from 1989-2002. She has received many awards including the Annie Jump Cannon award in 1980 and the 40th Merit Award from the American Association of Variable Star Observers in 2008. She is also a very strong proponent of women in science.