The Women to KNOW State Hardcover is a once-in-a-lifetime honor and publication that features the highest caliber women from across the state. Applicants are interviewed and selected by a panel of previous honorees and members from the community.
Nominations are CLOSED
and will reopen May 1, 2026
More Than a Feature. A Lifetime Honor.
THE HONOR
The Women to KNOW in Florida hardcover is more than a publication. It is a distinction reserved for women who are shaping the future of business, leadership, and community impact across the State. Each honoree is carefully selected by a panel of previous awardees and respected members of the community who recognize not only success, but significance.
To be named a Woman to KNOW is to join a legacy of leadership, a network of women who embody excellence, integrity, and influence.
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:
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Proven professional accomplishments
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Demonstrated leadership within their industry
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Measurable community or philanthropic impact
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Commitment to supporting and empowering women
An Evening of Recognition and Legacy
THE CELEBRATION
Honorees will be formally recognized during the Women to KNOW in Florida Gala, 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 recognition program where each Woman to KNOW is called to the stage to be honored for her achievements and presented with the official Women to KNOW in Florida hardcover.
Our Selection Committee
MEET THE JUDGES
ALISHA HOWARD
Executive Coordinator | KNOW
AMANDA PAYNE
Amplify Clearwater
ROBYN FAUCY
Results 1st
The Women to KNOW in Florida 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
MEET THE HONOREES
Across the nation, Women to KNOW honorees represent the highest standard of achievement, purpose, and leadership. These women are entrepreneurs, executives, philanthropists, and innovators who redefine what it means to lead with vision and compassion.
The Women to KNOW in Florida class joins a powerful community of hundreds of women who have been recognized through this initiative. Together, they form a collective legacy that continues to inspire the next generation of leaders. Meet the 2026 Class of Women to KNOW in Florida.
Chef Adrianne Calvo
Maximum Flavor
Aleksandra Efimova
GOLFABELLA & VIASOL MED
Ann McNeill
MCO Construction & Services
Avery Skipalis
Skipalis Realty
BLIMA EHRENTREU
The Designers Group
BONNIE MOTT
Bonnie Mott Media Group
Brynn Fuentes
Brynn Skincare Essentials
Caeley Looney
Reinvented Inc.
Caridad Murphy
Diaz-Murphy and Associates CES
Chanae L. Wood
Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, P.L.
Claudienne Hibbert-Smith
Exp Realty & TRU Prep Academy
Dawn Y Graber
Dawn Y Graber Consulting
Elisa Caro
SmartChoice Communications
Emily Zubi
Emily Zubi International
Erika Williner Williamson
Erika Williner Designs
Evelyn Almodóvar
UnidosNow
Hasina Echoles
Global Speech & Rehab Services
Heather Hughes
Optimum Health & Wellness
Heather M. Koester
Invigorate Nexus Consulting Firm
Dr. Hilary Dalton
Dalton Dental
JaJuan Williams, CPA, MBA
The Lady CPA
Jennifer Lourie
SERHANT
Jennifer Poirrier
City of Clearwater
Kameron Hodgens
Impact In Action
KATIE BEAN
Katie Bean Travels
Katisha Jallow
K Luv Culture
Kimberly Berfield
Florida House of Representatives
Kristina Park
Greater Naples Chamber
Lauren A. Morgan Esq.
Activated Law
Dr. Leslie F. Harrell
Truly Valued, Inc.
Liana Fuente
Black Orchid & Co.
Lina Teixeira
Clearwater Vice MayoR
Ly T Nguyen, MD
Eye Florida
Megan Howell
Second Heart Homes
Nicole Waters
Amplify Women Tampa Bay
Dr. Norma Davis
Sivad-Noel, LLC
Phara E McLachlan
Nahteava
Robyn Mussler
Connect-IT 360
Ronit Schwartz
Aryeh Strategic Partners
Shavonne Johnson
Truly Valued
Sherry A. Henry
HabCenter Boca Raton
Sophia Allen
The Real Estate Professionals
Stephanie Paradiso
Inspired Social Collective
Dr. Tashika Griffith
Clearwater Campus of St. Peterburg College
Theresa Mazzuco
Your Business Blueprint
Tracey Hagen
Tracey Hagen Photography Studio
Dr. Valerie Steele
Why Not Now Coaching & Events LLC
Veena Abraham Cecilia
EQU Advisors Host, Leaving the Pack Podcast
Veronica Querales
Kohtler Elevator Industries, Inc
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
The Women to KNOW in Florida program offers exclusive partnership opportunities for brands and organizations that champion women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact. As a sponsor, you will align your brand with one of the most respected recognitions for women across the state while gaining meaningful visibility among influential audiences.
From event sponsorships to book placements and digital exposure, each opportunity is designed to create connection, recognition, and long-term brand equity.
Please email us at hello@theknowwomen.com to learn more about our partnership opportunities.
