LiveSafe Resources is proud to announce the honorees for the 41st Anniversary Tribute to Women of Achievement. This annual event celebrates fifteen exceptional women from the metro Atlanta area who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their personal, professional, and volunteer endeavors. These honorees join the esteemed Academy of Women Leaders, a group of over 500 women recognized for their significant contributions to their professions and community.

Meet the 2026 Honorees:

Terri Block – Sr. Vice President, Atlanta, Market Executive, Bank of America

I am a Senior Vice President and the Atlanta Market Executive at Bank of America, where I lead strategies that advance economic mobility, strengthen community partnerships, and support responsible growth across metro Atlanta. A native of Savannah, Georgia, my career has spanned corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors—reflecting my deep commitment to equity, community voice, and inclusive leadership. I proudly serve on several boards focused on housing, workforce development, and neighborhood revitalization, and I am a graduate of Emory University and Georgia State University. I am also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Kimberly Harmon – Executive Assistant to President & CEO and Facilities Administrator, Cobb Chamber of Commerce 

I believe in the power of perseverance and never giving up. If you can think it, you can achieve it, and no matter your early circumstances, you have the ability to change your stars. My own journey has taught me that even with a challenging start, resilience can become purpose. Through my work at the Cobb Chamber and my service with 10 Women of Hope and the Center for Family Resources, I’m committed to uplifting families in our community. I strive to help others realize they can rise, rebuild, and create the life they imagine.

Michele Howard – Executive Vice President, Programs & Leadership Development, Cobb Chamber of Commerce

My parents shaped my love for community and taught me that serving others is one of the most powerful ways to put faith into action. In my role at the Cobb Chamber, I am passionate about developing the next generation of community leaders. I am also passionate about supporting nonprofits close to my heart, including LiveSafe Resources, the Marietta Arts Council, and the Earl & Rachel Smith Strand Theatre. I’m a GCSU alum (Go Bobcats!) and enjoy traveling, local coffee shops, reading with my book club, and family time with my husband, Cade, and children, Avery and Madison.

Vanessa Ibarra – Founder & Impact Facilitator, TheSharedWorld

I believe that building safer, more equitable communities starts with listening, partnership, and lifting up voices that are too often unheard. I am the Founder and Impact Facilitator of TheSharedWorld, a global advisory firm that connects local action to global impact through economic development, storytelling, and cross-sector collaboration. With over 16 years in public service, immigrant and international affairs, including leading the City of Atlanta’s global engagement efforts, my work centers on empowering communities, supporting women, and creating pathways to opportunity. I am driven by the belief that when women thrive, communities thrive.

Ali Jackson – Sr. Marketing & Events Coordinator, CROFT & Associates

I believe the most meaningful impact often happens in quiet moments—where trust is built, and people are met where they are. I approach my work and relationships with intention, empathy, and a focus on connection, knowing small, thoughtful actions can lead to lasting change. I’ve been blessed with opportunities to serve and give back in meaningful ways that create lasting impact for others, shaping how I show up each day. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, spending time outdoors with my black lab (Fisher), and being with friends and family.

Samantha Johnson – Chief Financial Officer, Johnson & Alday, LLC

As a lifelong resident of Marietta, my journey began at Burruss Elementary and culminated with my graduation from Northcutt Stadium at Marietta High School. It was during my time at MHS that I discovered my passion for volunteering, inspired by my Freshman cheer coach, Ms. Vanessa James, who encouraged us to volunteer for Cobb Christmas. I firmly believe in giving back to the community whenever possible. I am grateful to integrate this commitment into my daily work at Johnson & Alday, alongside my husband and family. A proud graduate of the University of Georgia, I cherish moments with my two children, Mary Wells (13) and Winn (11), enjoy playing Mahjong, and love watching the Dawgs compete in Athens.

Makia Metzger – Solicitor General, Cobb County Solicitor General’s Office

I am a proud product of Georgia public schools, graduating from Campbell High School, earning my Bachelor of Arts degree from Georgia State University, and my law degree from the University of Georgia. I am deeply rooted in caring for my community and bring more than 20 years of public service to this work. Throughout my career as a prosecutor, I have advocated in court and out of court for abused and vulnerable individuals, leading with empathy and respect.  That empathy guides my strong sense of fairness and justice, shaping decisions that protect families, strengthen public safety, and build trust through accountability and compassion every day in service to the people.

Amy Mollohan – Principal, Amy Mollohan & Co. at Ansley Christie’s Real Estate Brokerage

I believe strong leadership begins with service, integrity, and accountability. I am grateful to have called Cobb County home for more than 25 years after graduating from Georgia Tech. Raising four children through Cobb County schools has shaped my appreciation for education, stewardship, and community. As a real estate professional, I guide clients through important decisions with clarity, care, and trusted counsel. I am passionate about building and serving organizations that create opportunity, mentoring others, and strengthening a connected community. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and look forward to even more travel as we become empty nesters.

Allyson Moyer – Senior Merchandising Presentation Specialist, Whole Foods Market

I have an intense passion for giving back to my community. After surviving domestic violence, I joined the Cobb DV Task Force and answered Ahimsa House’s crisis hotline on weekends. I am an ally with Cobb Circles, a Habitat construction crew member, and was the 2025 Women Build Recruitment Chair. I started a homeless outreach program in 2024 and help moms in recovery at Mother’s Making a Change. I’m a member of the advisory panel for UNG Women in Leadership and am working on my master’s in digital marketing. In my free time, I enjoy appreciating nature and spoiling my rescue cats.

Laura Norton – President, Concord Strategies

Every day I wake up proud. Proud of my children, my husband, my community, and myself. I am the Chair of the Board for Support Smyrna, a nonprofit my husband and I launched during the COVID-19 pandemic that has since grown into a vital charity serving hundreds of children, families, veterans, and seniors in the city of Smyrna. Through my career as a government relations professional, I am honored each day to represent clients and engage with inspiring leaders across the state. In my spare time, you can find me out for a run, listening to a sports or political podcast, or at a youth sporting event.

DeRetta Rhodes, Ph.D. – Executive Vice President, Chief Culture Officer, The Atlanta Braves

The legacy I strive to leave is one of relevance, impact, and inspiration, being known not only as a trusted and valued HR professional with strong business acumen, but as a catalyst for change and a strategic partner who helps leaders unlock their full potential. I am committed to building cultures where people feel seen, heard, and valued, and where leadership is not just about position, but about purpose, influence, and the ability to elevate others.

Raquel Riley Thomas – Founder and CEO, An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC

I am Raquel Riley Thomas, a United States Army Captain Veteran, Founder and CEO of An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC, an international media and entertainment company that has directly supported, funded, and amplified more than 20 nonprofit organizations advancing safety, advocacy, and protection for women and children. I am the Founder of DefendRILEY, a self-defense and prevention initiative actively educating hundreds of women and youth annually through community-based training and awareness. With nine years of military leadership and induction into the Library of Congress, I lead with action, scale, and measurable impact that strengthen communities and save lives.

Sasha Ugi – Client Service Leader – Georgia, Keck & Wood

I serve as the Client Service Leader-Georgia for Keck & Wood, a civil engineering company that specializes in civil engineering, landscape architecture, and land surveying. I am a proud Cobb County resident and love giving back to our community, primarily by serving as the 2026 Chair of Cobb Executive Women, a Board member of The Extension, and an active member of the Leadership Cobb Alumni Association. You can also often find me playing pickleball or golf, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, discussing the latest read at book club, or watching a competition cooking show with friends and family.

Jaret Usher – State Court Judge, Cobb County State Court

As a Cobb County native raising my own family here, my commitment to this community is deeply personal. I have dedicated my career to public service, approaching my role with a profound sense of responsibility to give back to the home that shaped me. Guided by the values of hard work, integrity, and humility, passed down by my parents, I strive to model these principles for my children. I find balance in the outdoors through running, hiking, camping, and fishing. Ultimately, I am driven to live each day with gratitude and purpose, making every moment count.

Kathy Young – College and Career Advisor, Campbell High School

I believe that there is a community service opportunity for everyone. There are so many ways to give and so many organizations that benefit from our collective time, talent, and treasure. No matter how busy life is, there are ways to strengthen our community and to ease the suffering of others. Spreading awareness about a need is as important as a financial donation. Finding the perfect volunteer fit for a friend builds community capacity. I’m fortunate to have so many role models in our community who continually re-energize my passion for civic engagement.

The 2026 Tribute to Women of Achievement gala is scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Atlanta Marriott Northwest at Galleria. The evening will feature a social reception, dinner program, silent and live auctions. During the event, one honoree will be named the “2026 Woman of the Year.” Additionally, the Pat Head Dignity Award and the Kim Gresh Survivor’s Award will be presented to individuals exemplifying outstanding service and resilience.

Tickets and corporate tables are available for purchase. Proceeds support LiveSafe Resources’ mission to serve victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in our community.

Join us in celebrating these remarkable women and their contributions to our community. Learn more>