2026 Women of Distinction
35th Annual
Women of Distinction
2026 Women of Distinction Honorees
2026 Women of Distinction. In back row: Dr. Tracy M. Webster-Cooley, Tomieka Carter, Debbie Sheary, Kathleen Wilson, Dr. Tandra N. Taylor, Beverly Woody. In front row: Carol Morris, Mary Jason, Tracy Zerwas, Barbara Erwin, Lynne Burnett
“ The Power of Her ”
YWCA Southwestern Illinois is honored to celebrate its 35th Annual Women of Distinction Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the Lewis and Clark Community College Commons in Godfrey, Illinois. This signature event is an evening of inspiration, elegance, and purpose—bringing together community leaders, advocates, and supporters to honor extraordinary women whose leadership is shaping our region.
As the largest and most visible tribute to women leaders in Southwestern Illinois, the Women of Distinction Gala celebrates the power of women to lead, uplift, and transform communities. Each year, we gather to reflect on the impact of women whose professional achievements, volunteer service, and personal leadership embody the YWCA mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
Please join us in celebrating the remarkable 2026 Women of Distinction honorees:
Lynne Burnett
Tomieka Carter
Barbara Erwin
Mary Jason
Carol Morris
Debbie Sheary
Dr. Tandra N. Taylor
Dr. Tracy M. Webster-Cooley
Kathleen Wilson
Beverly Woody
Tracy Zerwas
During the Gala, each honoree will be formally inducted into the YWCA Women of Distinction Academy, joining more than 340 extraordinary women recognized since the program began in 1991. Their stories remind us what is possible when women lead—and when a community stands behind them.
Evening Program & Timeline
5:00 p.m. – Doors Open
5:30 p.m. – Professional Photography
Honoree portraits, Academy photos, and group photos.
6:00 p.m. – Women of Distinction Event Begins
Welcome - Emcee - Invocation - YWCA Update - Keynote Speaker - Josephine Marley Beckwith Future Leaders Scholars - Women of Distinction Award Presentation - Raffle Drawing - Benediction
Featured Guest Speaker
Trisha R. Gordon, MBA, MHRM
This year’s Gala will feature keynote speaker Trisha R. Gordon, a visionary leader, serial entrepreneur, and powerful advocate. With more than 30 years of experience across the public and nonprofit sectors, Trisha currently serves as Chief Growth Officer for a child welfare nonprofit and has held senior leadership roles at United Way of Greater St. Louis.
Drawing from her journey from foster care to executive leadership, Trisha is known for turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones. Her message of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership promises to inspire and energize all who attend.
Ways to Support the Women of Distinction
We invite you to partner with YWCA through one or more of the following opportunities.
The deadline is March 3rd, 2026. YWCA staff are happy to assist with ad design if needed.
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Reserved table for eight
Full-screen, full-color digital ad displayed throughout the evening
Special recognition from the podium and on WBGZ
Name/logo included on all Women of Distinction marketing and press releases for one year
Listing in the event program
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Reserved table for eight
Half-screen, full-color digital ad displayed throughout the evening
Special recognition from the podium and on WBGZ
Name/logo included on all Women of Distinction marketing and press releases for one year
Listing in the event program
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Four dinner reservations
Quarter-screen, full-color digital ad displayed throughout the evening
Listing in the event program
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Two dinner reservations
Full-color digital ad displayed throughout the evening
Listing in the event program
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Ads will be displayed throughout the evening and included in the printed event booklet.
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Tables seat up to eight guests.
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Direct donations to YWCA are always welcome and deeply appreciated. Your generosity ensures that our mission-driven work continues year-round.
For questions or assistance, please contact YWCA at info@ywcaswil.org or 618.465.7774.
Checks may be mailed to:
YWCA Southwestern Illinois
304 E. Third Street
Alton, IL 62002
Why Your Support Matters
The Women of Distinction Gala is more than a celebration—it is a critical fundraiser supporting mission-aligned programs and services at YWCA Southwestern Illinois. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, YWCA relies on the generosity of individuals and businesses committed to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all.
All funds raised directly support programs that:
Strengthen working families and provide vital youth services that reduce violence, build resiliency, and develop leadership skills
Offer safe, inclusive recreational and enrichment spaces where all young people feel welcomed and supported
Advance racial and social justice by addressing inequities and strengthening community connections throughout our region
Over 30 Years of Honoring Women
WOD 1993
Since 1991, YWCA Southwestern Illinois has celebrated the achievements of over 300 incredible women with our annual Women of Distinction Event. We celebrate women who uplift our community through their outstanding contributions.
These are the leaders who strive for equity, and work to improve community day in and day out.
This annual event creates a moment to recognize women who embody the YWCA mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.
WOD Academy
After the Women of Distinction gala occurs, the new honorees join the Women of Distinction Academy, a group of prestigious women leaders in Madison County. Women like these are the heart, soul, and backbone of our communities. We create this opportunity each year to celebrate their accomplishments, and to honor the collective power of working together for the good of others.
During the WOD season, honorees celebrate first at the Media Day, a luncheon where the new honorees are interviewed by local media and photos are taken. Then there is the WOD Mixer, usually a week after the Media Day, where new honorees can mingle with each other and WOD Academy members. The Gala is the culminating event where the honorees are awarded and celebrated.
We strongly encourage anyone who knows an exceptional female leader in Madison County to take the time this year and submit a Nomination Form on their behalf.
2025 Women of Distinction Recap
On Thursday, March 13th, the 2025 Women of Distinction Gala celebrated the year’s honorees with the theme A Starry Night. The event was held at the Lewis & Clark Community College Commons in Godfrey. It opened with YWCA Board President Jessica Everage’s welcome speech. The Emcee this year, back by popular demand, Mrs. Vernetta Caffey, the award-winning educator, motivational speaker, and community activist. She introduced each of the honorees to the crowd of supporters.
Dr. Kathie Wuellner attended the Gala as a keynote speaker. Dr. Wuellner is a dedicated pediatrician, community leader, and Woman of Distinction (1992).
After her speech, Dr. Wendy Adams and Dr. Mosby presented an appeal for donations to the Josephine Marley Beckwith Future Leaders Scholarship Program (JMBFL). The scholarship focuses on leadership, volunteerism, and academic achievements aligned with YWCA’s mission. Our new scholars this year are Cameron Conwell and Elizabeth Blackmon.
After those fantastic speeches, the award presentation began. The honorees were called up by Marlene Lewis and Anne Tyree, Women of Distinction of 2024, amidst applause from friends and family. Then Chandler Herron, Emily Jackson, Dr. Val Harris, and Cheryl Ingle won the raffle drawing, and all attendees enjoyed food, company, and the talent of saxophonist Kelvin Evans for the rest of the starry night.
We are truly pleased that the community responded to our request for Women of Distinction nominations this year. There are many superheroes in our community who work to support our mission, mentor women, and strive to make positive change on a daily basis. We have a wonderful group of women with outstanding accomplishments this year. For all of you who took the time to prepare a nomination or write a letter of support, you have our gratitude. We believe in “sharing your love, supporting a sister” and you exemplify this spirit.
Make a donation
YWCA’s Women of Distinction signature event also raises critical financial support for life-changing programs including Child Enrichment and Girls Circle. Your donation supports our mission to eliminate racism and empower women.
Gifts of any and every size make a tremendous difference! The donation you make today will help change the lives of girls and women for many tomorrows to come.
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Submit a Nomination
Do you know a woman whose achievements strengthen the well-being and future of Madison County? Each year, YWCA relies on the community to help identify women whose leadership, service, and commitment advance our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. Nominations were due Friday, January 16, 2026 at YWCA and are no longer being accepted.
Honorees will be celebrated at the Women of Distinction Dinner on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the Lewis and Clark Community College Commons in Godfrey. As the region’s largest and most visible tribute to women leaders, the event recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions in their professions, volunteer work, and personal lives. At the celebration, honorees are formally inducted into the YWCA Women of Distinction Academy, joining more than 300 remarkable women recognized since 1991 when the program began.
The 2026 Nomination packets are available by clicking the button below. It is in a Word Document format. You may also obtain a packet at YWCA, 304 E. Third St., Alton; or by emailing info@ywcaswil.org; or by calling 618-465-7774. Completed nominations were due January 16, 2026.
It’s important to note that the nominee must live, work, or volunteer in Madison County to be considered.
The honorees must be able to attend the Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026. It is highly recommended that nominators confirm with the nominees the data of the Gala on March 12, the WOD Media Day on February 12 and the WOD Mixer on February 26. The potential nominee must approve of being nominated and plan to attend at least the WOD Gala event.
YWCA proudly acknowledges support from Rhonda Cox, Morrissey Contracting Co., Inc., and Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery.