North Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame will mark a major milestone this week as it prepares to celebrate its 10th annual induction ceremony, honoring seven women whose work and leadership have left a lasting mark on communities across the state.
The 2026 ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 27, at the North Little Rock Event Center. This year’s class includes four historical inductees and three contemporary honorees, bringing together women whose accomplishments span different generations and areas of public life.
The historical inductees are Sharon Allen, Phyllis Brandon, Dorothy Caldwell and Vada Sheid. The three contemporary honorees are Cynthia East, Marsha Martin and Cynthia Nance.
Together, the seven women represent a wide range of contributions to Arkansas. Their work has touched areas including public service, education, business, the arts, advocacy and community leadership.
The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame recognizes women whose accomplishments have helped influence the state’s cultural, social, economic or political landscape. The organization also focuses on the lasting effect of their work and the example they provide for future generations.
The 10th annual ceremony will offer several opportunities for guests to gather before the formal awards presentation begins.
A VIP reception is scheduled from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Mainstream Technologies Boardroom. A general reception will follow from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. in the Grand Lobby, giving all guests an opportunity to meet and socialize before the evening’s main program.
The dinner and awards ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m. and continue until 8:30 p.m. in the Centennial Bank Ballroom.
For people unable to attend in person, Arkansas TV will livestream the induction ceremony online beginning at 6:30 p.m. The livestream will allow viewers to follow the presentation and recognition of the seven honorees from wherever they are.
The anniversary adds another layer of significance to this year’s event. Ten years of induction ceremonies have created an expanding group of women recognized for their achievements and their influence on Arkansas.
According to the Hall of Fame, honorees are chosen because of the enduring impact they have made on the state and their ability to inspire women and girls who follow them.
The 2026 class continues that tradition by recognizing both historical figures and contemporary leaders. The combination allows the organization to look back at contributions that have shaped Arkansas while also highlighting women whose influence continues today.
The ceremony at the North Little Rock Event Center will bring the honorees, their supporters and guests together for an evening centered on their accomplishments and the broader role women have played in the state’s history.
More information about the 2026 inductees, including biographies detailing their backgrounds and contributions, is available through the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame website.
The 10th annual induction ceremony begins with the evening receptions before moving into dinner and the awards presentation at 6:30 p.m., giving attendees an opportunity to celebrate seven women whose service, leadership and achievements have helped shape Arkansas.
