From the halls of the county courthouse to the local businesses that anchor our neighborhoods, women are a driving force in Prince George’s County. We’re proud to present our 2026 Top 50 Women You Need to Know list. This list is a celebration of the visionaries, educators, and entrepreneurs who are the faces of innovation and voices of progress. Meet the women shaping our county’s future.

Disclaimer: Ranking is in no particular order.

1. Aisha Braveboy
   Prince George’s County Executive

A powerhouse in the Maryland legal community, Aisha Braveboy is being recognized for her progressive approach to justice. By prioritizing transparency and community-driven safety, she has transformed the State’s Attorney’s Office into a model of modern, restorative law. Her work ensures that the county remains a leader in legal reform.

2. Thelmetria Michaelides
Prince George’s County Fire Chief

Chief Michaelides leads with a blend of courage and strategic foresight. Her work is centered around fostering a culture of excellence within the Fire and EMS services, protecting lives and property while setting a new standard for emergency response leadership.

3. Dr. Aminta H. Breaux
President of Bowie State University

Dr. Breaux is driving a new era of innovation at Bowie State University, Maryland’s oldest HBCU. She is elevating the university’s academic prestige and preparing a global generation of leaders to excel in high-demand industries.

4. Dr. Falecia D. Williams
President of Prince George’s Community College

Dr. Williams is a transformative force in workforce development. She is committed to making higher education more accessible and creating pathways that empower students to transition directly into high-impact careers.

5. Tara Jackson
Maryland State Attorney

With a career spanning decades in the public sector, Tara Jackson has navigated complex legal landscapes with a focus on integrity and transparency. In recent years, she has been a pivotal figure in modernizing the prosecutor’s office, emphasizing a balance between firm accountability and community-based diversion programs.

6. Mahasin El Amin
Clerk of the Court for Prince George’s County

Mahasin El Amin is the vital link between the public and the judicial process. She works relentlessly toward streamlining court services and embracing digital modernization. Her focus on accessibility ensures that the heart of the legal system remains open and efficient for every resident.

7. Anita Rosser
Chief Assistant Sheriff of Prince George’s County Police Department

Anita Rosser plays a vital role in strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the residents they serve. In an era where community-oriented policing is more critical than ever, Rosser has distinguished herself as a master of strategic public safety initiatives that prioritize trust, transparency, and mutual respect.

8. Sandra Peaches
Executive Director of PGCTV

Sandra Peaches is the storyteller of the county. Her work in community-driven broadcasting ensures that the diverse voices and triumphs of Prince George’s residents are captured and shared with the public.

9. Kym Taylor
Maryland Delegate, District 23

Kym Taylor is a double-threat leader, blending 25 years of experience as a healthcare entrepreneur with her current legislative role in Annapolis. Whether she’s co-founding organizations like the Fair and Unbiased Appraisal Advocates (FUAA) to fight for home equity or championing the rights of seniors to “age in place,” Taylor’s leadership is defined by practical, life-changing results.

10. Deneen Richmond
President of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center

A champion of community wellness, Deneen Richmond is expanding world-class healthcare access. By prioritizing preventative care and health equity, she is ensuring a healthier future for families across the region.

11. Yolanda Johnson
Executive Director of CASA Prince George’s County

Yolanda Johnson is a fierce protector of the county’s most vulnerable. Her tireless advocacy for children in the foster care system, working to ensure every child has a roadmap toward a stable and bright future.

12. Ingrid A. Watson
President & CEO of Prince George’s County Economic Development 

As a key driver of the county’s economic engine, Ingrid Watson is recognized for her skill in attracting investment. Her work supports the growth of local industries, ensuring the region remains a competitive destination for business and innovation.

13. Andrea Harrison
Maryland Delegate, Delegation Vice-Chair

A veteran of Prince George’s County governance, Andrea Harrison has a steady, influential leadership in the Maryland House of Delegates. Having previously served as Chair of the County Council, she brings a master-level understanding of policy to the Appropriations Committee, where she fights for the funding and resources her district deserves.

14. The Honorable DaNeeka Varner Cotton
Maryland Circuit Court Judge

Known for her balanced gavel and profound wisdom, Judge Cotton is a pillar of the local bench. She maintains the highest standards of fairness, ensuring that the scales of justice remain perfectly aligned for all who enter her courtroom.

15. Wala Blegay
Council member At-Large, Prince George’s County Council

A fierce advocate for civil rights and smart growth, Wala Blegay is known for her “people-first” legislative agenda. From protecting residents’ rights to ensuring sustainable land development, she has become a leading voice for equity across the county landscape.

16. Jennifer Rios
Founder & President of the Prince George’s Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Jennifer Rios is a powerhouse advocate for economic inclusivity. She is known for increasing the visibility and growth of Hispanic-owned businesses, ensuring they are core participants in the county’s economic success.

17. Adenia Bradley
CEO of Mission of Love Charities

Adenia Bradley is a lifeline for families in crisis. She is known for her tireless work providing essential resources—from food to rental assistance—to the county’s underrepresented populations, turning “hope” into a tangible plan for stability.

18. Paula Brown
Founder & Artistic Director, Paula Brown Performing Arts Center

As a cultural visionary and savvy entrepreneur, Paula Brown has transitioned her world-class expertise into a thriving business that anchors the county’s arts community. Her dedication to technical excellence in dance, along with her recent focus on international business expansion, represents the county as a leader who scales creativity into a sustainable, global-facing enterprisership.

19. Jolene Ivey
Council member At-Large of Prince George’s County Council

With a deep-rooted heart for service, Jolene Ivey brings veteran leadership to the forefront of county policy. She is known for her ability to bridge the gap between complex policy and grassroots community engagement, making local government more accessible to all.

20. Diane Coleman Brown
President and CEO of Prince George’s Community Federal Credit Union

A pillar of local finance, Diane Coleman Brown works to ensure financial stability for residents. Her focus on community-based banking and financial education helps families build wealth and secure their futures.

21. Krystal Oriadha
Council Chair, Prince George’s County Council

As one of the youngest women and the first first-generation African immigrant to serve as Chair of the Prince George’s County Council, Krystal Oriadha is known for her bold “Prototype for What is Possible” vision for 2026—a leadership theme that prioritizes intentional, forward-thinking legislation. A co-founder of the grassroots organization PG ChangeMakers, Oriadha has rapidly become a leading voice for marginalized communities, Black maternal health, and housing justice.

22. Dawn R. Medley
President & CEO of FSC First

As a subject matter expert in small business finance, Dawn Medley is providing the capital “fuel” the county needs. She manages millions in assets that help local businesses grow, retain jobs, and turn entrepreneurial dreams into community staples.

23. Ifeoma C. Onyia
Founder of Clyopatra Winery and Vineyard

Ifeoma Onyia has masterfully blended agricultural heritage with modern hospitality. She is creating a premier local destination that celebrates the region’s land while offering a sophisticated lifestyle experience for wine enthusiasts.

24 & 25. Ashley Drakeford & Brittney Drakeford
Founders of The Capital Market

The Drakeford sisters are revolutionizing local food systems. They are diligently working to increase food sovereignty, providing residents with consistent access to fresh, local produce through innovative market spaces.

26. Alicia Moran
Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation

Alicia Moran is the bridge between big ideas and market reality. By fostering a vibrant culture of entrepreneurship through the Innovation Station, she has helped countless local startups find their footing and scale their impact.

27. Wanika Fisher
District 2 Council member

Council Member Fisher is a champion for smart growth and transit-oriented development. She is known for her legislative focus on creating walkable, sustainable communities that prioritize affordable housing and infrastructure improvements without losing the unique character of District 2.

28. Little Bacon Bear
DJ & On-air Personality for 93.9 WKYS

A cultural tastemaker, Little Bacon Bear brings unmatched energy and a unique creative voice to the airwaves. Her influence extends far beyond the booth, serving as a mentor and a beacon for local arts and community events.

29. Autumn Joi Barrett
General Manager at WLIT 106

Known as a powerhouse on the airwaves, Autumn Joi is helping shape the sound of the DMV. Beyond her broadcast success, she is a dedicated mentor, helping to cultivate the next generation of women in media.

30. Takisha James
Mayor of Bladensburg

Mayor James is guiding Bladensburg toward a vibrant future. She takes a balanced approach to governance—prioritizing modern municipal progress while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the town’s rich historical preservation.

31. Trina Jenkins
First Lady, First Baptist Church of Glenarden

Leading with profound grace, Trina Jenkins supports the spiritual and social foundations of one of the region’s largest faith communities. Her work ensures that faith translates into tangible community support and empowerment.

32. Cynthia Miller
Mayor of District Heights

Mayor Miller is known for her hands-on leadership in fostering neighborhood pride. By streamlining municipal services and focusing on public safety and community health, she is reinvigorating District Heights as a model for efficient, resident-focused local government.

33. Tiffany Alston
Maryland Delegate, District 24

Known for her persistent advocacy for families, Delegate Alston focuses on justice and legislative solutions that improve daily quality of life. She remains a dedicated voice for the residents of Capitol Heights and the surrounding communities.

34. Pamela Boozer-Strother
Prince George’s County Board of Education Member

A tireless advocate for the next generation, Pamela Boozer-Strother’s commitment to educational excellence ensures that every student in the public school system has access to equitable resources and a path to success.

35. Wanda Rogers
At-Large Council member, Bowie City Council

Wanda Rogers brings a wealth of executive experience to Bowie’s leadership. Her proactive approach to city safety and economic growth, is helping build consensus and drive long-term community stability.

36. Shayla Adams-Stafford
District 6 Council member

Shayla Adams-Stafford is on a mission to close the achievement gap. She is known for her policy work that ensures every child, regardless of zip code, receives a world-class education and the support needed to graduate college- and career-ready.

37. Kate Taylor Davis
Executive Director of Pyramid Atlantic Art Center

Fostering a thriving local arts scene is Kate Taylor Davis’s mission. She plays a vital role in providing the spaces and resources—like the Pyramid Atlantic Art Center—that allow creative expression and education to flourish in Hyattsville and beyond.

38. Stephanie Bolton James
Founder of Women of Prince George’s

A master of connection, Stephanie is building powerful networks that inspire and elevate professional women, fostering a collaborative environment where leaders can thrive together.

39. Dr. Tiffini Andorful
Prince George’s County Board of Education Member

Tiffini Andorful is committed to transparency in education. Her leadership on the board focuses on student-first policies that ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for every child in her district.

40. Lisa Brown Alexander
Owner of Wellspring Manor & Spa

Lisa Brown Alexander has created a sanctuary of luxury and culture at Wellspring Manor & Spa. She is committed to local hospitality and providing a space that showcases the very best of regional art, wellness, and community connection.

41. Roxy Ndebumadu
Bowie City Council member, District 4

Bringing a tech-forward perspective to city hall, Roxy Ndebumadu is known for her modern approach to governance. Her work focuses on leveraging innovation to improve city efficiency and deepen resident engagement in the digital age.

42. Tara Eggleston Stewart
Deputy Director, Recreation and Leisure Services Division at Parks & Recreation M-NCPPC

Tara Eggleston Stewart is known for her work in enhancing the quality of life through public spaces. Her leadership ensures that the county’s parks and recreation programs remain world-class, providing vibrant green spaces for all residents to enjoy.

43. Danielle Hunter
Council member, District 6

Recently appointed to represent District 6, Danielle Hunter is already making waves with her S.H.E. initiative—focusing on Safer communities, Healthier families, and Educational advancement. Her background in both aviation mentorship and government administration makes her a dynamic new voice for progress.

44. Rose Johnson
Founder of DMV Spotlight

Rose Johnson is a vital connector within the county’s business scene. Through her dedicated media platforms, she shines a persistent spotlight on the local businesses and entrepreneurs that serve as the backbone of the community. Her work is defined by a mission to elevate the stories of the county’s new and thriving businesses.

45. Sharrarne Morton
CEO of Morton Media and Founder of Black Door Society

A master of the narrative, Sharrarne Morton is known for her expertise in brand-building. She has created exclusive, high-value spaces where regional leaders can connect, share their stories, and thrive.

46. Ylawnda Peebles
Pastor at City of Praise Family Ministries

A champion for family wholeness, Ylawnda Peebles works to create faith-based outreach programs that empower individuals to seek personal growth and spiritual health, strengthening the family unit across the county.

47. Regina Gibbons
Founder of Y-Knot-Inc

A visionary in youth development, Regina Gibbons is recognized for empowering the next generation. Through strategic mentorship and educational resources, she helps young people navigate life’s challenges with the confidence and tools needed to succeed.

48. Candi Dailey
CEO of Potomac Hospitality Group

Candi Dailey is setting the standard for luxury hospitality in the DMV. Her ability to create intentional, storytelling-driven dining experiences that connect the community is producing a standard of absolute excellence that goes above and beyond.

49. Samaiyah Williams
Owner of Her Flex Fitness

Samaiyah Williams is inspiring a culture of health through personalized fitness and a focus on holistic wellness. She helps residents build the strength and confidence to lead healthier lifestyles.

50. Grace Johnson-Wright
Founder of Neema Dance Collective

Since founding the Neema Dance Collective in 2016, Grace Johnson-Wright has built one of the region’s most respected dance institutions. A Tory Burch Fellow and a champion for small business growth, Johnson-Wright provides elite technical training and a transformative creative space for the next generation of Black dancers.