Aspire Economic Development+Chamber Alliance representatives unveiled recipients of the group's 2025 Women Leaders awards, recognizing outstanding contributions toward advancing women. The Champion of Women Award honors an organization that fosters female leadership and creates growth opportunities.
Winners were announced at the Women Leaders Workshop on March 5 at the Valle Vista Golf and Conference Center. Aspire staffers also chose to recognize a male professional for his exemplary support of women in leadership and advancing women in business.
Award recipients: Champion of Women, AECOM Hunt; Woman Leader of the Year, Sonya Ware-Meguire with Girls Inc. of Johnson County; and Ally of Women’s Leadership Advancement, Beau Jackson with Modern Woodmen of America.
Nominee finalists also included Anne Schenk, Johnson Memorial Health; Jessica Evans, Allies, Inc.; Brandi Greenleaf-Barnes, Raymond James & Associates; and Deana Haworth, Hirons.
AECOM Hunt actively supports women in leadership roles, encourages participation in professional associations and fosters mentorship opportunities. Promotions of Corissa Smith to executive vice president over national markets and Pam McNeally Powell as vice president of project development showcase AECOM Hunt’s dedication to breaking barriers for women in male-dominated fields.
Sonya Ware-Meguire was honored as Woman Leader of the Year for her transformative leadership at Girls Inc. of Johnson County. Under her guidance, the organization expanded the budget nearly fourfold and garnered national recognition for trailblazing outreach initiatives. Her leadership has driven collaborations with the Johnson County Juvenile Detention Center and the Atterbury Job Corps Women’s Program. Her career spans 38 years as a licensed clinical social worker.
Beau Jackson was recognized for his advocacy as leader of Modern Woodmen of America’s Greenwood firm via championing gender equity by actively recruiting and mentoring female financial advisers, growing their representation from 0% to 50%. He supports flexible work arrangements, professional development, leadership training for women and women-led nonprofits.
“This workshop has continually evolved to meet the changing landscape of leadership, providing valuable insight and connection for professional women in our community,” says Angela Vandersteen, Aspire vice president of investor development and relations. “We're excited to celebrate the incredible women and allies making a real difference in Johnson County.”