Women of Distinction
2025 Awards Luncheon
Save the Date
May 16, 2025
Brookfield Conference Center
The Women of Distinction Awards event began in 1985 through the YWCA. The annual event recognizes the extraordinary accomplishments and leadership of women in Waukesha County who have demonstrated their passion and commitment to improving the quality of life in Waukesha County while inspiring other women and girls to do the same.
2025 Honorees
These Women of Distinction and Young Woman of Tomorrow show an exceptional spirit of service for women and girls in Waukesha County by giving back to the community.
Maria Watts
Woman of Distinction
Maria Watts is a true force of nature who uplifts women and strengthens her community as a mentor, sponsor, leader, and advocate. Maria has made a difference at the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) and La Casa De Esperanza for decades. She also serves on numerous community boards that assist women and girls. Maria’s passion is contagious, and her persistence is beyond reproach – serving as an example for all women.
Judie Taylor
Woman of Distinction
Judie Taylor is an insightful leader, always ready with a “yes.” She’s an example of the positive outcomes possible when working for the greater good. Judie now serves as the president and CEO of Journey21, Inc. and president and CEO of DUECO & Associates. Serving on seven community boards, her imprint shines brightly working for women and girls. Judie’s a living testament to the power of grace, strength, and belief in others – touching hearts and lifting others up to rise.
Deanna Marincic
Woman of Distinction
Deanna Marincic, MSW, LCSW, founded Gals Institute LLC, where she serves the community as a psychotherapist and prevention specialist. For more than 25 years, Deanna has served the mental-health field, treating individuals, families and adolescents. She founded Gals On The Go Project Foundation, which offers these positive-impact programs to the community and in schools. Her greatest calling lies in helping individuals heal from past traumas and forge paths of strength, emotional growth, and resiliency.
Sophia Martin
Young Woman of Tomorrow
As a dedicated Oconomowoc High School student and community member, Sophia Martin demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, and service – with a 4.0 GPA in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Sophia also leads by example, inspiring younger athletes in cross-country, track and field, and alpine skiing. She also serves the community through the Oconomowoc Public Library’s Teen Advisory Board, developing innovative programs for children. Sophia’s natural ability to inspire others makes her a true role model among her peers.
Join us in celebrating these women at the Women of Distinction Luncheon on May 16, 2025 at the Brookfield Conference Center.
Spotlight on the Event
Carmen De La Paz
Featured Artist
Robyn Ludtke
Women of Distinction Committee
Chair
Donna Bembenek
Women of Distinction Committee
Vice Chair
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The WGF appreciates the commitment and engagement of following sponsors within Waukesha County dedicated to improving the quality of life of women and girls and joining in to celebrate four amazing women who have had a remarkable impact in Waukesha County.
Presenting Sponsors
Empower Sponsors
Strengthen Sponsors
Artist Sponsor
Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design
Tech Sponsor
Concurrency
Champion Sponsors
Annex Wealth • Brewers Community Foundation • Eaton Corporation • Ellenbecker Investment Group, Inc. • Ixonia Bank • MetalTek International • Oberlin Filter Company • TEMPO Waukesha • Waterstone Bank • We Energies Foundation
Sustain Sponsors
Bank Five Nine • CityPress Graphic Communications • Educator’s Credit Union • Hausman Group • InPro • JP Morgan • Kristin Walsh • Moreland OB-GYN • Three Pillars Senior Living • Waukesha State Bank • Westbury Bank • WHEDA
Advocate Sponsors
Herzing University • MIAD
Sponsorship Opportunities
A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available for the Women of Distinction Luncheon, one of the largest signature events in Waukesha County.
Past Women of Distinction Honorees
Since the event began in 1985 through the YWCA, more than 200 women have been recognized for their extraordinary accomplishments, passion and commitment to improving the quality of life in Waukesha County while inspiring other women and girls to do the same.