Nearly 700 Iowans, dedicated to empowering and celebrating women, gathered for the Inspiring Women of Iowa luncheon on May 5 at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center. Sponsored by Lincoln Savings Bank, this event celebrated 16 individuals from Iowa who have exhibited courage, confidence, and character, as well as those who advocate for women.
During the luncheon four women were named as the recipients of the awards:
Courage Award: Riley Schreder, MA CCC-SLP - Speech-Language Pathologist, Des Moines Public Schools
Confidence Award: Courageous Fire- Owner/Social Entrepreneur of Courageous Fire LLC & Founding Executive Director of Courageous Access
Character Award: Maria Alejandra Guevara Hernandez, MD FACP FHM - Program Director Internal Medicine Residency, MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
Inspiring Advocate for Women Award: Tina Padavich Smothers - President/Partner, Artisan Management Group
Finalists and award recipients were selected from nominations submitted by the public, and then reviewed by the nominations committee, comprised of former Inspiring Women of Iowa award finalists. Proceeds from Inspiring Women of Iowa benefit Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa, and our mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
“Now, more than ever, girls need our support. They need a safe, judgement-free space to explore their interests. They need inspiring role models. Girls need an ecosystem of girls to lift each other up, cheer each other on and gain the confidence and courage to become our next inspiring women. And that is exactly what we do at Girl Scouts. Our goal is to make Girl Scouts equitable and accessible to all girls, in all communities, from all walks of life.” said Beth Shelton, CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa at the event.
The 2024 Inspiring Women of Iowa event will be held on May 10, 2024, at Prairie Meadows. Nominations will open in fall 2023 and more information can be found on the website at inspiringwomenofiowa.com.
Missed the event? Watch the event recording, finalist videos, and check out event photography here.
