This fall, Senator Mike Morrell (R-Inland Empire) partnered with the National Latina Business Women Association – Inland Empire to host the 11th Annual Women of Distinction Ceremony, recognizing 44 women from around the 23rd State Senate District for their work in the community.
Over 340 guests filled the hall at the Orton Center on the University of Redlands campus to celebrate the honorees, including local elected leaders and officials.
“It’s a privilege every year to honor women from around the Inland Empire who demonstrate a deep commitment to their friends, family, and the community at large,” said Morrell. “These women are making the Inland Empire a better place to live and I’m grateful for the work they do.”
Each year, the Women of Distinction Ceremony showcases the service of women from throughout the region who demonstrate a strong commitment to their communities. Since the program began, over 500 women have been recognized. Awardees are nominated by members of the public from business and civic leaders to past honorees. A committee made up of various women’s groups and past honorees selected the 2015 finalists and Women of Distinction.
This year, cities and communities in the 23rd Senate District were each represented by three finalists for the Woman of Distinction honor.The finalists from Menifeeincluded Betty Bouris, Joan Ring, and Gloria Sanchez. Ms. Sanchezwas named the city’s Woman of Distinction.(Biographies and photos are included below).
The ceremony also highlighted the work of two “Women of the Year” – Maribel Brown of San Bernardino County and Sally Myers of Riverside County.
“It is inspiring to learn about these women’s accomplishments,” continued Morrell. “America’s greatness comes from her people, those that go out of their way to better their community and help their neighbor. These women not only live up to that ideal, they exceed it.”
A full list of honorees by city can be found here. For more information or jpeg photo files, contact Chris Odneal at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Senator Mike Morrell represents the 23rd Senate District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of San Bernardino, Riverside, and Los Angeles counties. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
