2026 YWCA Alaska’s Women of Achievement Awardees Announced
Held annually, the Women of Achievement event acknowledges the exceptional leadership of empowered women in Alaska. Each year, ten women are selected based on their demonstrated personal and/or professional leadership and their service to the community which aligns with the mission of YWCA Alaska to empower women, eliminate racism, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.
This year, we’re delighted to announce the following inspirational women have been awarded the 2026 Women of Achievement Award:
- Alyse Loran, Cook Inlet Housing Authority
- Erin Baldwin-Day, Anchorage Assembly
- May Ramirez-Xiong, State of Alaska
- Renee Wardlaw, Alaska Humanities Forum
- Carrie Peluso, Providence Alaska
- Gwen Welch, Chugach Commercial Holdings (CCH)
- Beth Nordland, Anchorage Park Foundation
- Alexis Salle, Inua Productions
- Lynda Limón, Limón Law Firm
- Geraldine Morrow, Posthumously
“For YWCA Alaska’s 37th year of honoring women leaders, we have yet another cohort of inspirational leaders to celebrate. It never ceases to amaze me how much talent we have among our women leaders here in Alaska, motivating not only myself but the next generation of leaders as well.” – Jessie Lavoie, YWCA Alaska CEO
YWCA Alaska is committed to encouraging and inspiring women of all ages to strive for their own success and create positive impact in the community, empowering the state, and the nation.