On April 11, 2026, Soroptimist International of Raleigh hosted its annual Live Your Dream Awards Luncheon at Bloomsbury Bistro, marking 20 years of honoring women through this impactful program.
Led by Mary Woodard, Terri Craig, and Carolyn Skowron, the luncheon honored ten remarkable award recipients. Each woman shared her personal journey—stories marked by perseverance, courage, and a clear vision for a brighter future. In this milestone year alone, Soroptimist International of Raleigh awarded a total of $16,000 to support women in their educational goals.
At this year’s luncheon, we also had the pleasure of welcoming two past Live Your Dream Award recipients, Alexis J. and Tanea E.—a meaningful reminder of the program’s lasting impact. Carolyn Skowron recognized Tanea for her upcoming May graduation from Wilson Community College, where she will earn her degree in nursing. In celebration of this milestone, Soroptimist International of Raleigh presented her with a $100 honorarium.
Meet the 2026 Live Your Dream Award Recipients
This year’s recipients represent a diverse group of women united by determination and purpose:
- Alexis will begin the LPN program at Alamance Community College, with plans to continue toward an associate degree in nursing and become a registered nurse.
- Ashyna, a strategic communications student at Old Dominion University and AmeriCorps community health educator, plans to launch a nonprofit promoting literacy among women and girls.
- Frances, a mother of three, is studying accounting at Strayer University and pursuing her CPA certification with the goal of owning her own business.
- Jennifer C, a single mother of four, earned her GED with high scores and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration through Southern New Hampshire University, aiming for a position that allows her to balance career and family.
- Jennifer G, a bilingual school health technician and interpreter, is completing nursing prerequisites at Alamance Community College and plans to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree to teach future nurses.
- Kahlecia is studying healthcare administration at North Carolina Central University and plans to pursue a master’s degree to prepare for leadership roles.
- Lenisha, a healthcare management student at the University of Mount Olive, is passionate about improving healthcare decision-making and ensuring equitable care for diverse populations.
- Mayra, a mother of three, is studying at Wake Technical Community College and plans to pursue clinical social work at Fayetteville State University, focusing on culturally responsive care for Spanish-speaking communities.
- Rose, a first-generation college student and mother, is earning her bachelor’s degree in political science at North Carolina Central University.
- Zion is a mother and provider and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice through Arizona State University, with the goal of working for the FBI.
Regional award highlight
A special highlight of the afternoon was the announcement that one of our recipients, Mayra, was selected for an additional Live Your Dream Award from Soroptimist Central East Coast Region. In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Mayra will receive an additional $5,000 award, the top award for the region. Mayra will receive her additional Live Your Dream Award on May 16 at the Region’s Spring Conference in Annapolis. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to her on this outstanding accomplishment.
Gratitude for Our Supporters
This meaningful event—and 20 years of impact—would not be possible without the generosity of our donors and sponsors.
Champion Level: Ron and Nancy McFarlane
Advocate Level: OsteoStrong; Charter Member Gift (Diane Cardamone, Linda Drummond, Shirley Hall, Patricia Witt)
Benefactor Level: Terri and Mike Craig; Kalyani Senior Services; Carolyn Leith
Partner Level: Betty Dillard; Patricia Lynch; Carolyn and John Skowron; Barbara Swartz; Laura Trubey
Contributor Level: Gwen & T.Y. Baker; Carole Guld; Audrey and Roger Mark; Mark and Lelia Poteet; Joyce Rothchild; Phyllis Wolborsky
Friend Level: Cindy Brand; Cindy Hopkins; Elizabeth Miller; Sophia Stone
We also extend special thanks to our luncheon sponsors, Edward Jones (represented by Mary Woodard and Elizabeth Perry) and Blanke Slate (represented by Suzanne Blanke), as well as our in-kind sponsors Laser Image Printing & Marketing and photographer Jerry Dillard.