As part of the annual Inspired Women Luncheon, the Greater Arlington Chamber’s Women’s Alliance bestows two honors on individuals who walk in an unmatched commitment to making a difference in Arlington. These women represent some of the best in our community. They are strong leaders who put others’ needs above their own to bring people together and facilitate change.
The Hero Award is given to honor women who have dedicated their lives to making a lasting impact in our community. Our Hero Award recipients have created a legacy through tenured, consistent contributions.
This year’s recipient, Becky Gerro is devoted to the Arlington community through her work with special-needs youth, her leadership of Boy Scout Troop 517, her role at the River Legacy Foundation and her investment as a local small business owner.
“It’s overwhelming to me to have been named the Hero Award winner for this year,” Gerro said. “These women have changed the lives of so many people, and to be now named into that group, is incredibly humbling.”
Gerro strives to support the people around her and make space for them.
“Everything that I’ve gotten to do in Arlington is because someone paved the road and made the road a little smoother, a little wider, so there was room for me, and that’s my goal,” she said. “I want to make the road a little smoother, a little wider, and a little easier to travel for the people who are coming behind.”
The Rising Star Award is given to recognize women who are paving the way for significant community impact. Although they may be early in their career or involvement, these women exemplify strong leadership with a commitment to positive change. 
This year’s recipient, Suzanne Taylor grew up in Arlington and made it her goal to nurture the next generation of leaders in our community. She currently chairs the Arlington ISD Education Foundation and cares deeply about the future of Arlington.
“I’m honored to be alongside these women,” Taylor said. “I’m just following where I feel like the Lord’s open doors, and where opportunities to serve have come. To be recognized for that is incredibly humbling.”
Taylor believes it’s vital to cultivate the talents that make you unmatched and then partner with those around you,
“I think it’s so important to find the different things you’re passionate about, figure out what giftings you have, pour into that and then bring other people alongside you,” Taylor said. “That’s how we make incredible change and progress in Arlington: working together.”
Congratulations to all of our 2026 Hero & Rising Star Award Nominees and Finalists:
Janice Bagby
Robyn Barrere
Glenda Bell
Laurie Bianco
Leslie Birdow
Reba Blevens – Hero Finalist
Brittany Carnes – Rising Star Finalist
Holly Clinton – Rising Star Finalist
Kim Crawford – Hero Finalist
Dr. Victoria Farrar-Myers – Hero Finalist
Becky Gerro – Hero Recipient
Heidi Hardy
Nedi Hernandez
Nicki Joiner
Antoinette Karriem
Maureen Maidlow
Mirna Martinez
Tnai Mason
Lyndsay Mitchell
TaShunda Scott – Rising Star Finalist
Trina Stone
Suzanne Taylor – Rising Star Recipient
JerLeigh Thompson
Gayla Turley
Rachael Vinyard
The Greater Arlington Chamber’s Women’s Alliance is focused on empowering and uniting women through business and community endeavors. The Women’s Alliance pledges to offer leadership, mentoring, and direction to its devoted members and is committed to strengthening women as professional, business, community and civic leaders.