Five honored as 2026 Women of Wisdom in Bonner County

The Women Honoring Women committee has announced the recipients of the 2026 Bonner County Women of Wisdom Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing five local women whose lives reflect exceptional service, leadership and dedication to the Bonner County community.

This year’s honorees are Dee Ann Smith, Nancy McAdam, Rebecca Hawkins, Sharon Bistodeau and Sue Brooks.

Selected from a large pool of nominations, these women were chosen for their enduring commitment to community betterment, their leadership across a variety of sectors, and their role as mentors and inspirations for future generations.

“We received so many incredible nominations this year, making the selection process especially difficult,” the committee shared in a statement. “Each nominee was truly deserving of recognition, and those not selected will be thoughtfully carried forward for consideration at next year’s event.”

The honorees will be celebrated at the annual Women of Wisdom Gala Luncheon on Saturday, June 13, at the Marigold Bistro, located in the Columbia Bank Building at 414 Church St. in Sandpoint. The event begins at 11 a.m., with tickets priced at $40. Seating is limited, and advance purchase is required.

The luncheon will feature a catered brunch, beverages and a special program honoring the 2026 Women of Wisdom, along with recognition of past recipients and the 2026 Women Honoring Women scholarship awardees. Community members are encouraged to attend and join in celebrating the legacy and contributions of these remarkable women.

To buy tickets, contact Diane Stockton at 208-290-6362 or via email at [email protected].

Founded in 1999, Women Honoring Women is dedicated to recognizing Bonner County women who have made significant contributions to their community through service and leadership. Since its inception, the organization has honored more than 140 women.

Nominees for the Women of Wisdom distinction must be age 65 or older and exemplify a lifetime of service, collaboration and leadership in Bonner County. The selection criteria highlight women who demonstrate vision, inspire others, pursue lifelong learning and meet life’s challenges with grace, dignity and integrity.

The 2025 Women Honoring Women committee includes Cassandra Cayson, Kathy Chambers, Patti Clemons, Betsy Dalessio, Beth Drain, Deanna Harris, Jenni Hewitt, Donna Hutter, Carrie LaGrace, Pat Lewis, Barb Merritt, Jeralyn Mire, Kari Saccomanno, Tina Sleyster, Diane Stockton, Sally Transue and Cherie Warber.

Organizers expressed gratitude to all who submitted nominations and continue to support the mission of honoring the many women who help shape and strengthen the Bonner County community.