GADSDEN, AL – September 25, 2025 – The Etowah Chamber proudly hosted the 10th anniversary of Advancing Women to the Top: A Perfect 10 at The Venue at Coosa Landing, bringing together more than 350 professional women from across Northeast Alabama and beyond for a day of leadership, connection, and inspiration. This milestone event, one of the largest gatherings for women in the region, shined a spotlight on Etowah County as a hub for professional growth and community leadership.
Attendees enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon “wine down” session featuring local food and wine while exploring the Vendor Village of area businesses. Throughout the day, participants built valuable relationships with coworkers, new friends, and community leaders while engaging in sessions designed to inspire and equip women at every stage of their careers.
The program featured a powerful lineup of speakers. Headliner Ellen Skrmetti, a viral Instagram and TikTok star, delivered a comedy set blending humor and heart, reminding attendees to embrace authenticity and joy in their journeys. Dr. Farrah Hayes, Executive Director of the Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama and the event’s emcee, spoke on Change & Leadership, drawing on her extensive experience in education and innovation. Jamie Langley, broadcaster, philanthropist, and former Miss Alabama, inspired the crowd with Adjust Your Crown: Rising Into Purpose, Power, & Presence. Susie Pinkard, retired Vice President with State Farm and author of Stainless Steel Butterfly, shared her story of resilience and growth. The conference also included a lively discussion panel, A Decade of Influence: Women Pioneering Regional Progress, moderated by Jacki Lowry with panelists Blair Goodgame, Kelley Pearce, Lorie Denton, and Tanya Maloney, exploring how women are shaping the region’s future.
This year’s event also celebrated the achievements of three extraordinary leaders as FIERCE Women of the Year. Sharon Maness of Gadsden City Schools was honored for over 40 years of service as a teacher, principal, Special Education director, and now Assistant Superintendent, where she has strengthened programs and inspired the next generation. Representative Ginny Shaver of District 39 was recognized for her courageous leadership on key issues in the State House and her dedication to improving Cherokee County and the lives of families across Alabama. Kelley Pearce, Special Assistant to the President at Jacksonville State University and Executive Director of OneEast, was celebrated for her lifelong dedication to education, community service, and visionary leadership in Northeast Alabama.
“Over the last decade, Advancing Women to the Top has become a signature event for our region, bringing together women making huge impacts” said Philip Hall, President & CEO of the Etowah Chamber. “Drawing more than 350 professional women to Etowah County this year shows the growing influence of this conference.”
For more information about Etowah Chamber programs and events, or to learn how your business can become a Chamber member, visit etowahchamber.org or call 256-543-3472.
Digital Marketing Agency
