WHW names Lifetime Achievement honorees

The Women Honoring Women committee is proud to recognize five outstanding leaders whose decades of service, compassion, and community impact have strengthened Bonner County in lasting ways. 

The 2026 Bonner County Women of Wisdom Lifetime Achievement Awards honor Dee Ann Smith, Nancy McAdam, Rebecca Hawkins, Sharon “Bisty” Bistodeau and Sue Brooks —five women whose leadership has shaped education, health care, arts, volunteerism, and civic life across Bonner County.

Dee Ann Smith 

Dee Ann Smith devoted more than 35 years to teaching elementary students and later expanded her impact through Idaho Virtual Academy, where she helped build community in online learning environments. A longtime volunteer with Angels Over Sandpoint and other local initiatives, she has supported fundraising, scholarships, and youth programs. Her resilience in facing Parkinson’s disease while remaining active in volunteering and outdoor activities continues to inspire those around her.

Nancy McAdam 

Nancy McAdam has played a foundational role in shaping Sandpoint’s cultural landscape since the 1970s. A co-founder of The Festival at Sandpoint, she helped transform a local vision into a regional arts tradition. As a charter member and past president of the Community Assistance League, she supported youth enrichment programs and civic initiatives. Her lifelong dedication to inclusion, generosity, and quiet leadership continues to influence generations of families and volunteers.

Rebecca Hawkins 

Rebecca Hawkins has spent a lifetime quietly building stronger systems of support in Bonner County. A lifelong resident, she founded the Christ Our Redeemer Community Garden to expand local food access and continues to support food security through Second Harvest distributions and personal donations. Her legacy extends to youth mentorship through 4-H, sports, and equestrian programs, as well as decades of educational leadership, school board service, and scholarship support for student-athletes.

Sharon “Bisty” Bistodeau 

Sharon Bistodeau has transformed rural health care and emergency response in Bonner County over more than three decades. A leader at Bonner General Health, she helped develop the county’s 911 system, expand EMS services, and bring emergency helicopter services to North Idaho. Her work also includes trauma-informed care programs, community health education, Sandpoint High School’s mock DUI program, and decades of coordination for major local events. Her career reflects a deep commitment to healing, safety, and service.

Sue Brooks

Sue Brooks has dedicated more than two decades to strengthening Bonner County through volunteer service. Since moving to Sandpoint in 1999, she has supported Kinderhaven, Festival of Trees, Bonner General Health’s Heart Ball, and numerous civic and historical preservation efforts. Known for her steady presence and willingness to help wherever needed, Brooks has also served in leadership roles from PTA president to Parks and Recreation Commission member, consistently fostering connection and community spirit.

Together, these five honorees represent the heart of Bonner County — leaders who have strengthened their community through decades of service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others.

The Women of Wisdom gala luncheon honoring these exceptional women will be held Saturday, June 13, at Marigold Bistro in Sandpoint. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased by calling Diane at 208-290-6362 or by emailing [email protected].