Women of Distinction
Call for Nominations
Do you know a woman whose achievements strengthen the well-being and future of Madison County? If so, YWCA invites you to nominate her for the 2026 Women of Distinction. 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.
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 remarkable women who are our 2025 Women of Distinction. Pictured left to right: Julie Botterbush, Kim Hunt, Rebecca Cowart, Annie Johnson, Rose Gipson, Tanjela Johnson, Dr. Jerrica Ampadu, and Megan Tyler. Not pictured: Michelle Matsche & Dr. Tanya Patton.
Nomination packets are available by clicking the button below. 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 are 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.
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.
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.
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.
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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