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The Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department has announced the winners of the 2025 In the Company of Women Awards.
Celebrating its 36th year, this prestigious awards ceremony is conducted in partnership with the Miami-Dade Commission for Women and the Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade. This year, 13 exceptional women leaders have been selected to join the esteemed ranks of past honorees, showcasing their remarkable achievements and inspiring contributions to the community.
“Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the In the Company of Women Awards,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “These remarkable women are trailblazers who illuminate the path for others, inspiring us with their leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication to our community. Their extraordinary achievements remind us that no dream is too big, and no goal is out of reach.
“Through their work, they empower and uplift women and girls, making Miami-Dade County a stronger, more vibrant place for all. We celebrate their contributions and thank them for their invaluable impact on our lives,” the mayor continued.
This award ceremony stands as a powerful testament to the strength, leadership and achievements of women who are shaping Miami-Dade County. As the county’s signature event celebrating National Women’s History Month, this year’s awards recognize women who have not only excelled in their professions but also have transformed their communities and advanced the progress of women through their vision and leadership.
Established in 1989 during a pivotal era of change, the awards were created to foster unity and celebrate the vibrant diversity of Miami-Dade.
Over the years, the ceremony has honored an extraordinary legacy of trailblazers, including former U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, U.S. Representatives Frederica Wilson and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, philanthropist Adrienne Arsht, salsa legend Celia Cruz, Grammy-winning Gloria Estefan, and philanthropist Darlene Boytell-Perez. These remarkable women represent the very spirit of progress and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on history and paving the way for future generations.
“The Commission for Women is honored to partner with In the Company of Women Awards, celebrating the extraordinary women whose leadership, passion and achievements have uplifted and transformed Miami-Dade County” said Michelle Abreu, Miami-Dade County Commission for Women chair. “These awards shine a light on the boundless potential of women making history and inspiring future generations.”
Today, In the Company of Women continues its tradition of honoring the remarkable women of Miami-Dade County. While we celebrate these trailblazing leaders during the awards ceremony, we also highlight the work and contributions of The Women’s Park – a Miami-Dade County treasure. This park stands as a testament to the incredible contributions of women who have played a pivotal role in shaping and enriching our community.
“For 36 years, Miami-Dade County Parks has celebrated the exceptional achievements of women and their vital contributions to strengthening our community through the In the Company of Women Awards event,” said Maria I. Nardi, Miami-Dade Parks director. “This year, we are proud to honor 13 remarkable women, who have made extraordinary contributions in their respective fields. Through this recognition, we celebrate women and foster the next generation of women leaders to help build a stronger, more vibrant and resilient Miami-Dade County.”
2025 Winners:
Mayor’s Pioneer Award: Rachel Johnson, deputy chief of staff, Office of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava; Dr. Marie O. Etienne, DNP, APRN, FNP, PNP, D.Min, PLNC, FADNL, founder, Global Innovative Foundation.
Arts and Entertainment Award: Jill Deupi, JD, PhD, Beaux Arts director and chief curator, Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami.
Business and Economics Award: Christine Duffy, president, Carnival Cruise Line.
Communications and Literature Award: Glenna Milberg, News Anchor/Reporter, WPLG/Channel 10.
Education and Research Award: Dr. Jill Ehrenreich-May, director of the Child and Adolescent Mood and Anxiety Treatment, University of Miami.
Government and Law Award – Elected: Honorable Micky Steinberg, Miami-Dade County Commissioner, District 4.
Government and Law Award – Non-elected: Natalia Zea, chief of public policy and engagement officer, United Way Miami.
Health and Human Services Award: Symeria T. Hudson, president and CEO, United Way Miami.
Science and Technology Award: Dr. Janki Sharadkumar Bhimani, assistant professor and director of Data Management and Research Lab, Florida International University.
Sports and Athletics Award: Kendra N. Bulluck-Major, executive director, Orange Blossom Classic.
Young Professional Award: Vanessa Joseph, Esq, elected city clerk, City of North Miami.
Community Spirit Award: Meg Daly, founder and president, Friends of the Underline.
The In the Company of Women Awards ceremony took place on Thursday, Mar. 13, in honor of International Women’s Day and National Women’s History Month. This year the event returned to the Coral Gables Country Club.
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