Celebrating 19 Years of Honoring Extraordinary Women Across Southeast Michigan
Detroit, MI — The Michigan Chronicle is proud to announce that The List is Out for the 2026 Women of Excellence Awards and Induction Ceremony, now in its 19th year of recognizing extraordinary women who are making a lasting impact across Southeast Michigan. The full list of 2026 honorees—selected from a competitive pool of more than 400 nominations—is available below.
For nearly two decades, the Women of Excellence program has honored women whose leadership, professional achievements, and community service continue to shape the region’s economic, civic, and cultural landscape. The 2026 honorees represent a powerful crosssection of leaders from business, education, healthcare, nonprofit service, government, and entrepreneurship.
“For 19 years, the Women of Excellence program has been one of the Michigan Chronicle’s most meaningful traditions,” said Hiram E. Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media and Publisher of the Michigan Chronicle. “Each year, we are reminded of the extraordinary impact women have on our communities and our economy. The 2026 honorees exemplify leadership, service, and excellence at the highest level.”
The honorees will be formally recognized at the 2026 Women of Excellence Awards and Induction Ceremony on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Huntington Place in Detroit. The event will bring together civic leaders, corporate partners, community advocates, and Women of Excellence alumnae for an evening of celebration and inspiration.
“The Women of Excellence program is a reflection of the strength, brilliance, and influence of women throughout our region,” said Cathy Nedd, President of Real Times Media News Group and longtime host of the program. “Each honoree has earned her place through dedication to her career and a deep commitment to the betterment of our community. We are proud to celebrate them and the legacy they join.”
Supporters are invited to participate by becoming a sponsor, reserving tables, or purchasing individual tickets at www.michiganchronicle.com/woe2026.
The celebration will also feature the release of The Book of Women, the official Women of Excellence commemorative magazine. The publication highlights the 2026 honorees and provides an opportunity for Women of Excellence alumnae and community partners to place ads celebrating their induction year or promoting their businesses.
