CHICAGO, IL (Chambana Today) — Twenty-five women veterans from across the state were set to be honored for their leadership and service to the veteran community during a ceremony in Chicago.

The recognition program was organized by the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs and the Women’s Health Department at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center. The event was scheduled for March 16 at Malcolm X College.

State officials said the women were selected as the 2026 Illinois Women Veteran Leaders after being nominated for their leadership, community service and dedication to supporting other women veterans. Organizers noted that many of the honorees had worked to address challenges faced by women who served in the military while developing programs, support networks and advocacy efforts.

The ceremony was scheduled to include a recognition program and light refreshments as officials celebrated the contributions of the selected veterans.

Those recognized as the 25 Illinois Women Veteran Leaders of 2026 included Melissa Beckford, Justyna Berry, Staci Boyer, Rochelle Crump, Lourdes Hurtado Fernando, Dr. Glenisha Foreman, Tawanda Hanible, Melissa Farmer-Hill, Dr. Sonia Kennedy, Celeste Latham, Nicole Mandeville, Dr. Nikelcia Marcelin, Dr. Karen Stendson-McMillan, Nancy O’Connell, Ashley Owings, Ramona Pozek, Telisha Reinhardt, Jen Solum, Shirley Spruiel, Aretha Spurlock, Amiee Wagoner, Kimyada Wellington, Shamika White, Katia Woods and Shannon Yount.

Officials with the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs said the honorees represented an inspiring group of leaders whose work had made a meaningful impact on veterans and their communities throughout Illinois.