2026 Outstanding Women Leader (OWL) Awards Finalists
Woman Innovator Award: Recognizes a trailblazer in her field in innovation and industry advancement
Maria Bardet - President & CEO, Humani Studios Inc
Leslie Bosserman - Co-Founder/Owner/Preschool Director, The Makers Place/Lead With Intention
Loraine Scott - Owner, Acheson Wine Company
Chelsey Smith - CEO, Chelsey Smith Crowns
Woman in Public Service Award: Honors a woman serving in a government or public service role (elected or appointed) who demonstrates exemplary leadership and advocates for positive change for women in business.
Cecilia Aguiar-Curry - Assembly Majority Leader, California State Assembly
Angelique Ashby - State Senator, California State Senate
Chevon Kothari - Deputy County Executive - Health and Human Services, Sacramento County
Jennifer Siebel Newsom - First Partner, State of California
Executive Woman Award: Honors an executive-level professional with no ownership interest who demonstrates exceptional leadership and community involvement.
Lisa Cardoza - President, American River College
Kimberly Coley - Chief Advancement & Marketing Officer, Habitat for Humanity Greater Sacramento
Gina Loza - Director of Training, Philanthropy & Events; Northwestern Mutual
Jenee Rawlings - President and CEO, Yolo Federal Credit Union
Impact Award: Celebrates a woman leader who has made a demonstrated impact on the economic advancement of women in the region.
Dawn Adams - Founder, Zion Girls Leadership and Collegiate Preparatory Academy
Lisa Culp - Executive Director, Women's Empowerment
Dr. Janice Thompson - Founder & Managing Principal, JDThompson & Associates LLC
Kim Tucker - CEO, Mission Forward Advisors
Woman on the Way Award: Honors a businesswoman in operation for less than five years showing strong potential for sustained growth and leadership.
Lydia Belaski - Owner, charQterie
Marinda Johnson Sessoms - Owner, Just Trind Productions
Charlene Vine - Founder and Executive Director, The Lionheart Community
Becca Whitman - Founder and Principal Consultant, Guide & Give
Wise Woman Award: Acknowledges a woman business owner with 10+ years of success and leadership in her industry.
Sheila Moody - CEO, SEM Logistics Solutions LLC
Allison Otto - President and CEO, Otto Construction
Anh Phoong - CEO, Phoong Law
Homa Rostami - CEO, Life Options for Seniors
Rising Star Award: Recognizes an outstanding young woman in high school or college who demonstrates early leadership, initiative and potential to make a lasting impact in business, community or public service
Finalists to be announced in early 2026
