WACO, Texas – Since 2018, the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce has recognized women who exemplify leadership, vision, and impact in every corner of our community. Through the Leading Waco Women Leadership Award, we continue this tradition by honoring individuals who embody excellence in their careers, service, and support of others.
Nominees are:
- Hanna Anderson, City of Waco
- Maricela Barajas, El Charro Tapatio
- Allison Bulkley, VanTran Transformers
- Jessica Cooper, McGregor Chamber of Commerce
- Christy Deleon, TFNB Your Bank for Life
- Emily Embry, Baylor Scott and White – Hillcrest
- Chaquinta Fisher, McLennan County
- Lorraine Gritten, Champions Barber and Beauty Academy
- Bronda Hayes, Unbound Now/Junior League Waco
- Lindsey Helton, Transformation Waco
- Kristina Holcomb, Premier ER Urgent Care
- Lesia Holt, Ascension Providence
- Stephanie Maultsby, McLennan Community College
- Doreen Ravenscroft, Cultural Arts of Waco
- Leslie Rhodes, TFNB Your Bank for Life
- Inez Russell, Friends for Life
- Daniela Sawyer, On Call Investigative Solutions
- Heather Travers, McLennan County
- Elizabeth Wooten, Texas State Technical College – Waco
Next week, we will announce the finalists to be recognized at the 2025 Leading Waco Women Fall Summit that will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the AC Hotel Waco Downtown. Tickets are on sale now at wacochamber.com/leading-waco-women. In addition to a panel discussion from the finalists, the Serving Summit will include a keynote address from Gabrielle “Gabe” Madison, an accomplished corporate social impact leader with more than 25 years of experience in corporate responsibility, human resources, and community engagement.
This award is presented to a woman who has achieved outstanding professional success, made meaningful contributions to the Waco community, and actively supports the advancement of other women through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership development. She leads not only by what she accomplishes, but by how she empowers others to thrive.
Leading Waco Women was created to celebrate, empower, and develop female leaders in the Greater Waco area. The summit series will conclude with the Fall Summit. Presenting sponsor for the 2025 Leading Waco Women Series is Waco Cardiology Associates.
About the Greater Waco Chamber:
The Greater Waco Chamber is a business leadership organization that advances a forward-thinking and visionary agenda for economic growth and quality of life. The Chamber prepares and markets Greater Waco for the businesses and jobs of the future and enhances the quality of life of the community by promoting strategic development. For more information, visit WacoChamber.com.