The 19 women honored are, from left, Patty Barton, Kylie Bunting, Amy Cherrette, Lane Clark, Sarah Derwin, Toni Eppensteiner, Jennie Garrett-Bureau, Pam Grundstrom, Rachel Ann Guindon, Lindsay Hemmila, Linda Hopper, Darlene Kyto, Ann McCombs (in memoriam), Lisa Petersen, Adela Piper, Reproductive Health Resources, Debbie Aro Smith, Susan Vore and Karen Wolf. (Courtesy photo)

MARQUETTE – Zonta Club of the Marquette Area celebrated its annual “Honor a Woman” event on Tuesday before a sold-out crowd at Northern Michigan University. At the event, 19 local women whose leadership, service and dedication make a meaningful impact in our community were honored.

Zonta Vice President Lorena Donnellan welcomed attendees and introduced Elizabeth Peterson and Jennifer Perez who served as the evening’s emcees.

Guest speaker Stephanie Graef of the U.P. Human Trafficking Task Force, spoke about inspiring women in her life, including her grandmother, a Holocaust survivor.

The program continued with recognition of the 19 honorees, each nominated by community members and local organizations. These women represent a diverse group, exemplifying mentorship, volunteerism, compassion, leadership, and service to others. Each honoree’s photo and narrative were displayed as they were called forward to receive a yellow rose and certificate from Zonta.

The event drew over 200 attendees and was supported by more than fifty local businesses through sponsorships, table purchases, and raffle donations. Leading support was provided by diamond sponsors Eagle Mine and Northern Michigan University.

Proceeds from the event support Zonta’s mission of building a better world for women and girls through service and advocacy.