Press Release: May 14, 2026
Okaloosa Commission on the Status of Women
For more info, contact Kelley Fuller at 850-830-8498.
On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women (OCCSW) will hosted its annual Women of Honor Ceremony at the University of West Florida Emerald Coast Campus.
The Women of Honor program was established in 1997 by the OCCSW as the Wall of Honor, providing a meaningful way for community members to recognize women whose contributions, leadership, service, and influence have made a lasting impact on the lives of others. The ceremony is traditionally held each May near Mother’s Day, offering an opportunity to honor mothers, mentors, community leaders, and other remarkable women.
Each honoree’s name is permanently added to the Women of Honor plaque displayed in the UWF Emerald Coast Campus Library. In addition, a commemorative entry featuring the honoree’s photograph, biographical information, and the names of those who nominated her is preserved in the Women of Honor Book, housed alongside the plaque.
During the ceremony, Emcee Laura Hussey, morning anchor for WEAR TV and a previous Women of Honor inductee, shared the stories behind their selections, highlighting the achievements, character, and lasting influence of each honoree. These personal tributes celebrate the extraordinary women whose dedication, compassion, and leadership have strengthened families, organizations, and communities throughout Okaloosa County.
The Women of Honor Ceremony continues to serve as a cherished tradition, recognizing both well-known and unsung women whose legacies inspire future generations.
2026 Honorees were
Kimberly Adams, Tammie Bowyer, Jane Buckelew, Dee Chernicky, Kimberly Cole, Sherrell Compton, Kayra Donahoo, Marcy Eady, Simona Faroni, Deborah Feldman, Diane Freeman, Niesia Garza, Mary Hauge, Lisa Hill, Mia Hughes, Dr. Cristie Kedorski, Christine Larson, Caroline McCoy, Peggy Mitchell, Bobbi Jo O’Marra, Claire Ogle, Leah Owens, Valerie Peterson, Wally Ratcliffe, Janey Rynearson, Angel Schauer, Dr. Cheryl Seals, Dr. Jessica Temple, Nikki Via, and Marilyn Wallace.
The Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women was established by the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) in Resolution 95-09 on February 1, 1995. The purpose of the OCCSW, through research, education and communication, is dedicated to the elimination of all barriers to a woman’s achievement of her fullest human potential.
For more information on the OCCSW visit the website occsw.com or call 850-830-8498.