The 100 Women to KNOW in America Award is the nation’s premier recognition program honoring high-achieving women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional excellence, and significant societal impact across various sectors.
Nominations are CLOSED for 2026!
More Than a Feature. A Lifetime Honor.
THE HONOR
The 100 Women to KNOW in America Award is the nation’s premier recognition program honoring high-achieving women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional excellence, and significant societal impact across various sectors. This prestigious award is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women who are not only masters in their professional fields but are also driving profound change as innovators, executives, and successful entrepreneurs.
Each winner goes through a process including a nomination and interview with a panel before being selected. Nominations are carefully reviewed, considering factors such as professional achievements, leadership qualities, impact on their respective fields, and contributions to their communities.
The final list of 100 Women to KNOW represents a diverse array of talents, perspectives, and achievements, reflecting the rich tapestry of female excellence in America.
How Honorees Are Chosen
THE PROCESS
Each year, nominations are thoughtfully reviewed by our selection committee to identify women who exemplify leadership, innovation, and service. During the interview process, nominees share their personal and professional journeys, their impact on their communities, and their vision for the future. The committee looks for women who have achieved measurable success while uplifting others through mentorship, advocacy, or philanthropy.
Only the most exemplary candidates are chosen for this once-in-a-lifetime honor.
Criteria Overview:
Nominees must possess a minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience within their respective industry or field and meet at least one of the following criteria in addition to the mandatory professional experience:
Executive Leadership: The individual currently serves in a C-Suite executive role (e.g., CEO, COO, CFO, CIO) for their employer, demonstrating high-level strategic influence and management.
Business Ownership: The individual is a principal owner, manager, and controller of a business, holding a minimum ownership stake of 33% (including partnerships).
Societal Impact: The individual has made documented, notable advances for women or the broader community through significant community impact, dedicated activism, or sustained philanthropy.
An Evening of Recognition and Legacy
THE CELEBRATION
Honorees will be officially celebrated at the 7th Annual KNOW Summit and Awards Celebration—a distinguished black-tie event held on April 14, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona, during an evening dedicated to celebrating leadership, community, and collective impact.
The event begins with a red-carpet welcome and a cocktail reception where honorees and guests enjoy live entertainment, tasting stations, and photo opportunities. Following the reception, attendees gather for the dinner and program where each Woman to KNOW is called to the stage to be honored for her achievements and presented with the official 100 Women to KNOW in America Award.
Our Selection Committee
MEET THE JUDGES
THERESA BACKES
Former Winner | Committee Chair
SARAH BENKEN FOUSHEE
CEO | KNOW
Brittany Acevedo
Member Concierge | KNOW
Alisha Howard
Executive Coordinator | KNOW
Rachel Zillner
Previous Winner
Gloria Mensah
Previous Winner
Denielle Finkelstein
Previous Winner
Nadine Nicolson
Previous Winner
Previous Winner
Alicia Boateng
Previous Winner
Katrina Noelle
Previous Winner
Cloé Luv
Previous Winner
Amber Batchelor
Previous Winner
Barb Smith
Previous Winner
MaryAnn Pagano
Previous Winner
Tahira White
Previous Winner
Michelle Mekky
Previous Winner
Brooke Foley
Previous Winner
Sheila Michelle Foye
Previous Winner
The 100 Women to KNOW in America judging panel is composed of former honorees, business leaders, and community advocates who share a commitment to excellence and equity. Each brings a unique perspective and years of experience identifying women who are truly shaping the future of their industries and communities. Their work ensures every honoree is evaluated with integrity, purpose, and intention.
“When Successful Women Are Lifted Up For Their Hard Work And Achievements, They Inspire The Next Generation Of Female Leaders.”
– Sarah Benken Foushee, Founder + CEO of KNOW Women
A Legacy of Women Who Inspire
FORMER HONOREES
The 100 Women to KNOW In America Award is a recognition that showcases the most influential, achieved, and honorable women in our society. Each winner goes through a process including a nomination and interview with a panel before being selected.
The final list of 100 Women to KNOW represents a diverse array of talents, perspectives, and achievements, reflecting the rich tapestry of female excellence in America. These women exemplify what it means to be high-achieving and ambitious on the next level and continue to pour into their communities as they do so.