2025 Salute to Women of Achievement

YWCA Greater Atlanta is proud to recognize the remarkable women who are shaping industries, advocating for equity, and uplifting communities. These ten honorees exemplify leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to driving meaningful change. Their contributions inspire us all to continue the fight for justice, opportunity, and empowerment.

2025 Woman of Achievement: Donna Hyland – President and CEO, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

For over three decades, Donna W. Hyland has been a tireless champion for pediatric healthcare, ensuring that children across Georgia receive the highest level of medical care. As President and CEO of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, she has overseen monumental growth, transforming the organization into one of the nation’s premier pediatric healthcare systems. Under her leadership, Children’s serves 1.2 million patient visits annually and has expanded with groundbreaking initiatives, including the merger of Egleston and Scottish Rite Hospitals, the growth of the Marcus Autism Center, and the development of the Center for Advanced Pediatrics. Most recently, she spearheaded the opening of the Arthur M. Blank Hospital, a state-of-the-art 2-million-square-foot pediatric facility designed to provide world-class care for future generations. Her vision and dedication continue to shape the future of pediatric healthcare, ensuring that every child has access to the lifesaving treatment they deserve.

Ashley Carson – EVP, Atlanta Division President, SouthState Bank

As a distinguished leader in banking and finance, Ashley Carson is dedicated to fostering economic growth and financial empowerment. As EVP and Atlanta Division President of SouthState Bank, she plays a pivotal role in shaping financial strategies that support businesses and individuals alike. Her leadership is particularly impactful in increasing financial literacy and expanding access to capital for underserved communities, ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all. Through her work, she has championed initiatives that strengthen small businesses, promote wealth-building, and drive financial inclusion. With a passion for community engagement, she remains a strong advocate for creating a banking system that empowers individuals to achieve long-term success.

Kwajelyn Jackson – Executive Director, Feminist Women's Health Center (Atlanta)

A passionate advocate for reproductive rights and healthcare equity, Kwajelyn Jackson has been at the forefront of the fight for reproductive justice in Georgia and beyond. As Executive Director of the Feminist Women’s Health Center in Atlanta, she leads efforts to expand access to reproductive healthcare, combat systemic barriers, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities. Under her leadership, the center has strengthened its advocacy initiatives, increased community outreach, and provided critical healthcare services to those most in need. Her unwavering commitment to gender equity and bodily autonomy has positioned her as a leader in shaping policies that protect reproductive rights and ensure all individuals can make informed decisions about their health and futures.

Dr. DeRetta Cole Rhodes – Executive Vice President & Chief Culture Officer, Atlanta Braves

With an illustrious career in human resources and organizational leadership, Dr. DeRetta Cole Rhodes is a transformational leader dedicated to fostering inclusive and dynamic workplace cultures. As Executive Vice President & Chief Culture Officer for the Atlanta Braves, she plays a key role in shaping the organization’s people-first approach, ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion remain core pillars of success. Her leadership extends beyond the field, influencing corporate strategies that create meaningful opportunities for women and people of color in the sports industry. She is a sought-after speaker and mentor, using her expertise to inspire and cultivate future leaders who will continue to champion inclusive excellence in professional environments.

Elizabeth Correll Richards – President, The Correll Family Foundation

A devoted philanthropist and education advocate, Elizabeth Correll Richards is committed to improving opportunities for individuals and families across Georgia. As President of The Correll Family Foundation, she leads initiatives that focus on education, workforce development, and healthcare access, ensuring that underserved communities have the resources they need to succeed. Her work has helped fund scholarships, strengthen nonprofit partnerships, and expand programs that create pathways to success for young people. Her deep-rooted commitment to service and community investment continues to create transformative change, empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

Leslie Schreiner, CPA, CDP – SVP, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

A seasoned finance executive and advocate for affordable housing, Leslie Schreiner is dedicated to creating economic stability and opportunities for communities in need. As Senior Vice President at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, she plays a critical role in supporting financial institutions that fund affordable housing and community development initiatives. Her expertise in corporate finance, coupled with her commitment to social impact, has helped drive innovative solutions that address housing disparities. As a champion for diversity and inclusion within the financial sector, she works to ensure that historically underserved communities have access to the resources and support needed for economic empowerment.

Jewel Burks Solomon – Managing Partner, Collab Capital

A trailblazer in technology and entrepreneurship, Jewel Burks Solomon is dedicated to fostering economic growth and innovation among Black founders. As Managing Partner at Collab Capital, she invests in early-stage Black-owned businesses, ensuring they have the capital and mentorship needed to thrive. A former Google executive and co-founder of Partpic, an AI-powered visual search startup acquired by Amazon, she has paved the way for diverse entrepreneurs in the tech industry. Her leadership and advocacy work continue to drive equitable access to funding, helping to close the racial wealth gap and build a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Pamela Stewart – Chief Customer Officer - Retail, The Coca-Cola Company

With an impressive career in corporate leadership, Pamela Stewart is a powerhouse in business and community advocacy. As Chief Customer Officer - Retail for The Coca-Cola Company, she oversees key business strategies while driving initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Beyond her corporate role, she is an influential voice in philanthropy, mentoring young professionals and championing community-building efforts. Her commitment to uplifting women and underrepresented groups ensures that the next generation of leaders is equipped with the tools to succeed.

Belisa Urbina – CEO & Co-Founder, Ser Familia, Inc.

For more than two decades, Belisa Urbina has been a steadfast advocate for Georgia’s Latino community. As CEO & Co-Founder of Ser Familia, Inc., she has built one of the most impactful organizations providing culturally competent mental health services, domestic violence prevention, and family support programs. Her work addresses critical gaps in services for Latino families, ensuring that they have access to the resources and opportunities needed for a brighter future. Her leadership and dedication continue to uplift countless individuals, fostering stronger, healthier communities.

Janis Ware – Publisher & Editor, The Atlanta Voice / Voice News Network

For over 30 years, Janis Ware has been a driving force in media and community development. As Publisher & Editor of The Atlanta Voice, she upholds a long-standing tradition of providing critical news coverage that amplifies the voices of Atlanta’s Black community. Beyond journalism, she has dedicated her career to advocating for affordable housing, leading SUMMECH Development Corporation in the development of over 1,800 housing units for families in need. Through her work, she ensures that both information and housing remain accessible to those who need it most, leaving an indelible mark on Atlanta’s landscape.

Honoring Women Who Lead and Inspire

These ten extraordinary women embody the mission of YWCA Greater Atlanta—to eliminate racism, empower women, and create opportunities for justice, equity, and community transformation. Their leadership, resilience, and commitment to social impact continue to shape the future of Atlanta and beyond. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and recognize their profound contributions to their industries and communities.

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