This Women’s History Month, The Chronicle News proudly celebrates 30 extraordinary women whose leadership, courage, and commitment to community are shaping the present and inspiring the future.

Across Michigan and beyond, women are building businesses, leading classrooms, strengthening families, mentoring young people, and advocating for change in ways that impact entire communities.

Some lead from boardrooms.

Some lead from classrooms.

Some lead quietly through service, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to others.

All of them are helping shape the story of our region.

The 30 Within 30: Women Making History 2026 campaign was created to recognize women whose work continues to move our communities forward. These women represent leadership across business, education, healthcare, government, nonprofit service, media, and grassroots community impact.

For nearly four decades, The Chronicle News has documented the people and stories shaping our community.

This campaign continues that tradition by honoring women whose contributions deserve recognition today, not decades from now.

While this collector’s edition highlights several stories in print, readers can explore the full Women Making History 2026 series online.

Each profile highlights the journeys, leadership, and community impact of women who are building legacy through their work.

These women are not waiting for history to remember them.

They are making it now.

Explore All 30 Women Making History Features

WOMEN MAKING HISTORY 2026

A Roll Call of Excellence

30 Women Shaping the Present.

Legacies of Power.

One Collective Story.

The Honorees

✨

Legacy & Leadership

• Yanice Y. Carter, MBA, CSSGB

• Carolyn Carter (In Loving Memory)

• Sis. Mari Mosetta Nunley-Carter

• Dr. Joan Thomasina Jackson Johnson (In Loving Memory)

Public Service, Education & Advocacy

• Dr. Tareva Watts

• Hon. Judge Wanda M. Stokes

• Dr. Frances D. Carter-Johnson

• Sharon D. Rogers

• Lucianna Solis

• Dr. Shenika Hankerson

• Judy Kehler

Health, Wellness & Medicine

• Dr. Stacy L. Leatherwood Cannon

• Dr. Melody Angel

• Dr. Farha Abbasi

Business, Entrepreneurship & Community Impact

• Ashlee Willis

• Candace Phillips

• Ali Bennett

• Corean Canty

• Kiara Dumas

• Elyse Ribbons

• Erica Lynn

Arts, Culture & Community Expression

• Rae-Kel “Lady Kellz” Moore

• Bonita McAfee Mitchell

• Terrace Riley

Law & Justice

• Attorney Teresa A. Caine Bingman

Mental Health & Professional Leadership

• Dr. Terra DeFoE

Family Legacy Features

• Lucas-Perry Family

(Dr. Patricia Lucas, Dr. Evelyn Lucas-Perry, Dr. Victoria Lucas-Perry, Crystal Lucas-Perry)

• Taylor Family

(Dr. Leola “Lee” Taylor, Heather Taylor, AnJanette “Angel” Taylor)