The record-setting class represents the increasing demand for opportunities that connect, develop, and champion women leaders across the Greater Huntsville and North Alabama region.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The Women’s Economic Development Council (WEDC) is continuing a period of significant organizational growth, expanding its network of women leaders while deepening its investment in leadership development, mentorship, professional connections, and community engagement.

Over the past decade, WEDC membership has grown by more than 200%, reflecting both the growth of the Huntsville/Madison County region and an increasing interest among women leaders in opportunities to connect, develop, and contribute to their local business and civic community.

That momentum continues in 2026 as WEDC welcomes 32 new members, the largest incoming class in the organization’s history. The record-setting class represents women from businesses, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, government, and other sectors throughout the Huntsville/Madison County community. Their addition reflects the increasing demand for opportunities that connect, develop, and champion women leaders across the region.

“Welcoming so many new members is an exciting milestone for WEDC, but what makes this class especially meaningful is the depth of leadership, experience, and perspective these women bring to our organization,” said Lauren Smith, 2026 WEDC President. “We’re thrilled to welcome them into a network of women who are committed not only to their own professional growth, but to strengthening our entire community through education, mentorship, and strong leadership.”

WEDC has intentionally grown its membership while maintaining an emphasis on active participation and relationship-building. Prospective members attend Leadership Development Meetings and are supported through the application process by current WEDC members serving as Sponsors and Co-Sponsors. This process allows prospective members to experience the organization firsthand and begin developing meaningful connections even before joining.

WEDC has also expanded opportunities for women at different stages of their leadership journeys. Through programs including WEDC Milestones, an 18-month leadership development program for early- and mid-career women, the organization continues to build a pipeline of future leaders through mentorship, leadership education, community service, and greater access to WEDC’s professional network.

The 32 members of the 2026 class will participate in WEDC’s New Member Orientation on October 20 and will be formally inducted at the organization’s November Leadership Development Meeting.

WEDC’s 2026 New Members Include: 

• Lara Brown, Investor's Resource
• Anastasia Byler, Integral Path
• Brittanie Chester, Chester Nutrition Counseling
• Connie Chow, Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
• Lupei Chou, Naval Systems, Inc. (NSI)
• Alisa Clark, Welcome Home Huntsville Magazine
• Cierra Cottman, NextOp Vets
• Christy Dunn, Awaken Professional Development
• Lacey Gardner, Woddall and Hoggle Insurance Agency
• Nicole Hartenbach, InTown Partners Real Estate Group at Keller Williams Realty
• Tanya Hendrix, Huntsville Estate Planning Lawyer, LLC
• Shauna Hill, Johnston, Moore & Weston
• Karen Hoagland, KH Health & Fitness
• Sheree Holland, ARCSPACE STUDIO, LLC
• Rachel Johannes, Home RN Huntsville
• Jenny Johnson, The Armstrong Company
• Heather Jones, Heather Jones Coaching
• Ann Kvach, Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville
• Essence Nesbit, Designs by Essence
• Amy Nordstrom Jones, City of Huntsville
• Dawn Rayburn, Restorative Wellness
• Kendra Rogers, Helen's Place
• Tonya Ross, Southern Kitchen and Home
• Samantha Southerland, Good Grit Agency
• Allison Spratley, The Enrichment Center
• Lisa Stone, ImageHawk
• Debra Straniero, Raytheon
• Whitney Swinney, GFiber
• Whitney West Elliott, The Earlyworks Family of Museums
• Karen Williams, Cyber Brews
• Caryn Wooley, Annabella at Cedar Glen

ABOUT WEDC

Founded in 1987, the Women’s Economic Development Council (WEDC) of Huntsville is a membership organization dedicated to advancing women as leaders in business and the community. Through leadership development, mentorship, networking, and civic engagement, WEDC fosters meaningful connections that empower women to grow professionally, serve their communities, and create lasting impact across North Alabama.

WEDC members represent a diverse range of industries and professions, united by a commitment to leadership, service, and supporting one another’s success. Learn more at www.wedchsv.org.