Since 1992, the YWCA Tribute to Women Program has recognized women across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia who make meaningful contributions to their communities. The program highlights professionals, volunteers, and advocates whose work reflects the YWCA’s mission to empower women and girls while advancing peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. These inspiring leaders demonstrate excellence in their fields, and their commitment continues to make a lasting difference throughout the region.

Nominations will be open for a couple months each year and the call for nominations will be made public.

To be eligible, nominees must reside or be employed in the YWCA service area (see map below). Tennessee Service Counties: Carter, Greene, Hancock, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Washington, and Unicoi. Virginia Service Counties: Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Dickenson, Grayson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe.

Please note: An organization or business may only nominate one candidate. Multiple organizations may jointly nominate. Candidates may only be nominated in one category. Previous award recipients, along with current members of YWCA staff, board, junior board, board committees, or the Tribute to Women steering committee, may not be nominated.