Greater Vancouver Chamber Announces Finalists for the 2026 Iris Awards Honoring Women of Achievement

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES FINALISTS FOR THE 2026 IRIS AWARDS HONORING WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

Honorees to be revealed during the Iris Awards Luncheon at the Inspire HER Conference on March 12, 2026

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is proud to announce the finalists for the 2026 Iris Awards, presented by Riverview Bank. This prestigious recognition celebrates outstanding women across Southwest Washington whose leadership, innovation, and dedication to service have created meaningful and lasting impact in their communities.

The 2026 Iris Award recipients will be revealed at the Iris Awards Luncheon, a signature event of the Chamber’s Inspire HER Conference, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Hilton Vancouver Washington. The annual luncheon brings together business leaders, professionals, and community advocates to honor excellence and inspire the next generation of women leaders.

For more than three decades, the Women of Achievement Awards, now known as the Iris Awards, have recognized remarkable women whose vision and commitment strengthen Southwest Washington. Since its founding in 1985, the program has celebrated individuals who lead with purpose, elevate others, and drive positive change throughout the region.

2026 Iris Awards Finalists:

• Carol Van Natta – Board Chair, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
• Josie Hyde – Division President and Regional Manager, WFG National Title Insurance Company
• Judy Chipman – Mayor Pro Tem, City of Ridgefield
• Karen Morrison – Founder, Odyssey World International Education Services (OWIES)
• Kate Sacamano – Chief Marketing Officer, The Columbian
• Klarissa Hightower – Board Chair, Southwest Washington Equity Coalition

“These finalists represent the very best of Southwest Washington - leaders who uplift others, champion meaningful causes, and strengthen the fabric of our community through service and innovation,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. 

Community members are invited to attend the Iris Awards Luncheon and celebrate the remarkable achievements of these inspiring finalists. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at: https://www.vancouverusa.com/inspire-her 

The 2026 Iris Awards Luncheon is presented by Riverview Bank, with support from Legacy Health, OnPoint Community Credit Union, and Vancouver Clinic.

To learn more about this year’s finalists and past Iris Awards honorees, visit: https://www.vancouverusa.com/iris-awards 

About the Iris Awards

Wanting to recognize women of achievement in Southwest Washington who exemplified leadership, philanthropy, and community service was the inspiration for the Iris Awards in 1985. For over 40  years, the Southwest Washington community has nominated outstanding women for recognition. The Iris Award is held to commemorate National Women’s History Month, to recognize International Women’s Day, and to honor volunteer efforts and community leadership of women in Clark County.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for more than 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com. 

Press Release Contact

Lourdes Salmonte Ulrich
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Phone: 360.567.1058
Email Lourdes