Women of Achievement Awards 2026

Women of Achievement Awards

March 26th, 2026

Hotel Julien Dubuque

Annually, the Women's Leadership Network of Dubuque celebrates women in the tri-state area with the Women of Achievement Awards Event. This event aims to acknowledge and honor women who have made, or aim to make, notable contributions in their professional or community roles.

Awards are given to up to two women for each category. The winners are selected anonymously by a panel of judges (both male and female) from the following categories:

Up and Coming Leader​

Unsung Champion​​

Organizational Impact​​

Achievements in Her Field​​

Growth & Accomplishments in Personal Life​​

Service and Support of Non-Profit Work​

2026 Winners:

Unsung Champion Winners:

JENNI MARTINEZ

Recognizing 22 years of steadfast dedication and behind-the-scenes impact. Beginning her career as an ER nurse and transitioning into telephonic case management, she has guided countless injured workers through recovery while becoming a trusted mentor and “vault of knowledge” for her team. As Manager of Auto Liability Clinical Services, she has overseen more than 965 complex cases and delivered over $3 million in client savings. Beyond her professional contributions, she is deeply committed to her community through volunteer work, event leadership, and consistent blood donation. Her humility, reliability, and unwavering willingness to help make her a true Unsung Champion deserving of recognition.

Up and Coming Leader Winners:

ALLIE COOLEY

Balancing two years as a summer intern while working full-time and completing her degree, she developed a deep, foundational understanding of the work and culture. Over time, she became a steady, reliable presence—proactively identifying challenges, taking ownership, and ensuring thoughtful, professional resolutions. She is widely respected as a trusted peer mentor, known for her ability to provide clarity, support, and approachable guidance while modeling strong communication and professionalism. Now actively engaged across the organization and community, her integrity, confidence, and commitment to growth have made her a valued and influential leader.

ALEXIS RETTENBERGER

An emerging leader with remarkable potential, she has steadily advanced since 2015, earning multiple promotions, including her recent role as Executive Client Consultant. She demonstrated exceptional leadership during a critical transition, seamlessly absorbing additional responsibilities, retaining all client relationships, and guiding her team with stability and trust. Known for her empathy, patience, and deep expertise, she fosters a supportive environment while delivering meaningful impact for clients through clear, compliant, and strategic guidance. Beyond her role, she actively contributes to team development, process improvements, and organizational success. Her people-first approach and consistent results highlight her as a standout Up & Coming Leader poised for continued impact.

Achievements in Her Field Winners:

JENNY BURDS

After leaving a hospital system to launch her own independent clinic, she has transformed access to care in Peosta by creating a trusted, community-centered family practice. In just a few years, she has reduced barriers for local families, offering consistent, personalized care that strengthens health outcomes and relationships. She expanded her impact through additional services and by mentoring other women pursuing entrepreneurship in healthcare. Known for her compassionate leadership and commitment to excellence, she has built a strong team culture and advanced innovative care models across the region. Her work is reshaping what accessible, purpose-driven healthcare can look like in a growing community.

Growth and Accomplishments in Personal Life Winners:

DAYJANAE BERTUCCI

This award recipient is a proven leader focused on the military veteran community, serving as the Marketing Director for a nonprofit dedicated to female veterans and service members. She enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1999, serving until 2006, and was one of only two women selected for an anti-terrorism mission following the 9/11 attacks. Despite her military career being cut short due to surviving a sexual assault, she advocated for change, improving how the Coast Guard handles sexual assault reporting. Today, she tirelessly serves Dubuque County veterans, expanding the nonprofit's reach and setting an example of strength, perseverance, and service.

PAM SCHMIDT

A retired Chief Warrant Officer 5, she built an exceptional 34-year Army career marked by leadership, resilience, and service, including missions in Bosnia and Iraq where her intelligence work helped protect fellow service members. One of the few women to reach this distinguished rank, she consistently demonstrated excellence under pressure and a commitment to growth. Following her military service, she has continued to lead through community impact, supporting and connecting women veterans across the Tri-State area. Her compassion and strength are equally evident in her personal life, where she cares for her wife with unwavering dedication during a serious illness. Through every chapter, she exemplifies courage, empathy, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Organizational Impact Winners:

HEATHER HARPER

With a proven track record at top global companies, she brought strategic vision and fresh perspective that transformed the organization’s trajectory. She led major growth milestones, including securing the largest client in company history and successfully expanding into insured administration, followed by additional multimillion-dollar partnerships under her leadership. Promoted to Practice Leader, she has driven exceptional results—doubling the business, achieving high client retention, and fostering an engaged, loyal team. Known for her strong relationships and hands-on leadership, she plays a key role in both client success and business development. Her commitment to mentoring emerging women leaders further amplifies her lasting impact.

Service and Support of Non-Profit Work​ Winners:

WENDY SCARDINO

A dedicated nonprofit leader, she is known for her steady, mission-driven approach and genuine care for the communities she serves. During her time at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, she strengthened donor engagement, improved communications, and built lasting systems and relationships that enhanced the organization’s impact. Her collaborative, team-first mindset and consistent follow-through made her a trusted and invaluable partner. Now serving as Executive Director of Dubuque Forward, she continues to unite organizations and lead strategic efforts that benefit the broader community. Her commitment to service, combined with her authentic and dependable leadership style, makes her a true force in nonprofit work.

CORAL SMART

As Director of Grant Management and Compliance, she plays a critical role in securing and managing funding that fuels essential services for survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Her work has directly enabled the organization to expand its reach across 16 counties, serving a diverse population with complex needs. Beyond funding, she brings a deeply personal, survivor-centered approach—ensuring every detail reflects care, dignity, and impact. She also supports frontline efforts through hotline coverage, staff training, and cross-team collaboration. Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment have strengthened the organization and improved countless lives.

Thanks for a wonderful evening!!