Greater Haralson Chamber Honors Five Outstanding Women at 2026 WOW Event

HARALSON COUNTY, GA – The Greater Haralson Chamber proudly recognized five remarkable women for their leadership, service, innovation and lasting impact during Women Observing Women: A Night of Elegance & Empowerment, held Thursday, September 24, 2026, at The Venue at Stillwater Pond.

Presented by PMG Home Lending, the annual WOW event brought together approximately 150 women from across Haralson County and the surrounding area for an evening dedicated to connection, empowerment and celebrating the women who make a difference in their workplaces and communities.

The evening featured keynote speaker Elyse Davis, Statewide Regional Economic Development Manager with Georgia Power, followed by the presentation of the 2026 WOW Awards. The awards were presented by Maegan Rutherford, CEO of Haralson College & Career Academy and the 2025 WOW Woman of the Year.

The Greater Haralson Chamber was honored to recognize the following 2026 WOW Award recipients:

Heart & Service Award – Suzanne Young
Suzanne Young was recognized for her heart for serving others and her dedication to creating opportunities for at-risk youth. After leaving the corporate world to establish The Strong House, Young has poured her time and energy into building a program focused on supporting young people and helping them reach their full potential. Her commitment to serving others continues to make a meaningful difference in the community.

Woman of Impact Award – Amber Wilson, West Georgia Technical College
Amber Wilson was recognized for her leadership and impact throughout her 24-year career at West Georgia Technical College. Beginning as a cashier and working her way to Vice President of Finance, Wilson has demonstrated exceptional dedication to professional growth and public service. She holds a BBA in Accounting from the University of West Georgia and has completed the Technical College System of Georgia Executive Leadership Academy and the University of Georgia Governmental Accounting Series. She also graduated from Leadership Haralson in 2026 and recently played a key leadership role in a statewide financial system transition.

Innovator of the Year – Michelle Patterson, TydenBrooks
Michelle Patterson was honored for her determination, professional growth and commitment to innovation. Patterson began her career at TydenBrooks as a machine operator in 2011 before moving into a production artist role in 2013. While continuing her career, she pursued her education, earning an associate degree and later a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Today, she contributes across process, quality and production, demonstrating what is possible through hard work, continued learning and perseverance in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Legacy Award – Mayor Sharon Sewell
Mayor Sharon Sewell was recognized for a lifetime of leadership, service and dedication to the City of Bremen. As Bremen’s first female mayor, Sewell has made history while continuing a long record of service to her community. Her career has included work in education, speech-language pathology and business, along with years of civic leadership. Her lasting influence and commitment to Bremen have created a legacy that will continue to impact future generations.

WOW Woman of the Year – Ramona Wilson, Wayne Davis Concrete
Ramona Wilson was named the 2026 WOW Woman of the Year for her extraordinary commitment to serving others throughout Haralson County. A lifelong member of the community, Wilson has quietly and consistently supported individuals and families through job assistance, utility assistance, food distribution, church leadership and numerous community initiatives. Whether helping a coworker, supporting a family in need or volunteering her time, Wilson has built a reputation as someone others can always count on.

“These five women represent what WOW is all about – recognizing women who lead, serve, inspire and make a difference in the lives of others,” said Tara Chapman, President & CEO of the Greater Haralson Chamber. “Each of our recipients has made an incredible impact in her own way, and we were honored to celebrate their accomplishments alongside so many women from our community.”

The Greater Haralson Chamber extends its appreciation to PMG Home Lending, the presenting sponsor of the 2026 WOW Evening Event, along with all sponsors, committee members, volunteers and community partners who helped make the evening possible.

Women Observing Women is an initiative of the Greater Haralson Chamber designed to connect, encourage and celebrate women throughout the local business community. Through networking, professional development and recognition, WOW provides opportunities for women to build relationships while highlighting those making a positive impact throughout Haralson County.