YWCA NETN and SWVA Celebrated Empowered Women Inspiring the Next Generation at 35th Annual Tribute to Women Awards

YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia proudly hosted its 35th Annual Tribute to Women Awards Banquet on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Bristol Train Station, honoring six remarkable women whose work positively impacts their communities and exemplifies the approach of empowered women inspiring the next generation.

The celebration recognized trailblazers in award categories of Business/Industry, Community Engagement, Education/Arts, Finance, Healthcare, and Mission Impact— highlighting the powerful ways women are shaping change, fostering growth, and inspiring others to rise and thrive. The honorees, nominated by organizations across the region, were celebrated for their dedication, vision, and impact.

This year’s honorees included:

• Baylor Hendrickson Hall, Deputy Director at Birthplace of Country Music – Business/Industry

• Nicole Hughes, Founder of Levi's Legacy – Community Engagement

• Dr. Lisa Withers, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs at Emory & Henry University – Education/Arts

• Maggie Elliott, Executive Director at Believe in Bristol – Finance

• Dr. Paula Hill-Collins, Clinical Director and Vice President of St. Mary’s Health Wagon – Healthcare

• Kelli Broussard, Head Swim Coach at Elizabethton High School – Mission Impact

Attendees were deeply touched by the honorees’ heartfelt remarks, marked by humility and sincere gratitude. Each woman spoke with grace, acknowledging the individuals and communities who supported her journey. Their words inspired everyone in the room and served as a powerful reminder of the strength and influence of women leaders across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

YWCA NETN and SWVA would like to thank their 2026 Corporate and Tribute Sponsors: Strongwell, The United Company Foundation, BTES, Eastman Credit Union, Voice – magazine for women, Rose Marie Burriss, Marcia Gilliam/Hilb Group, Lois Clarke/Clarke Charitable Foundation, Ballad Health, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Nancy Arnold, Kathy and Ray Feagins, Mary Ellen Miller/MarketingMel, and Garza Law Firm.

The evening was a powerful reflection of the YWCA’s mission to empower women and eliminate racism, honoring those who are creating meaningful change while uplifting and empowering others to grow. For more information on YWCA NETN and SWVA, visit www.ywcatnva.org or call 423-968-9444.