Momentum Leaders will recognize three extraordinary women as 2026 Women of Impact honorees at the upcoming Momentum Leadership Conference on March 3rd in Birmingham.
The Woman of Impact award honors women leaders whose extraordinary work has positively influenced the lives of others in community, business, culture, and politics. This year’s honorees have made tremendous contributions not only in their careers but also in their communities.
The 2026 Momentum Women of Impact honorees are Rosilyn “Roz” Houston, Marianne Sharbel, and PeggyLee Wright.
The Honorees:
Rosilyn “Roz” Houston
Roz Houston is widely recognized for her trailblazing career in global finance. She was the highest-ranking female and the first woman of color to serve in the C-Suite and on the Management Committees of two global banking firms, reporting directly to the U.S. CEO and global division heads. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Houston is equally dedicated to community, family, and faith. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including Chair and Interim CEO of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
Marianne Sharbel
Marianne Sharbel’s visionary leadership and compassionate advocacy have left an indelible mark on families facing medical crises in Alabama. As the driving force behind the Birmingham Ronald McDonald House, Sharbel transformed a bold idea into a vital sanctuary for thousands of families of children undergoing medical treatment. Her collaboration with community leaders, businesses, and volunteers brought this essential resource to life, providing comfort, support, and hope during the most challenging times.
PeggyLee Wright
PeggyLee Wright is an aviator, leader, and business innovator. As a former U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk pilot, she flew with the 82nd Airborne Division, executed missions in Honduras and Central America, and built a foundation of grit, resilience, and operational excellence. In 2019, she founded THE COMPANY YOU KEEP in Huntsville, AL. The firm specializes in consulting that helps organizations grow through the right mix of leadership development, business strategy, and real-world execution. Wright’s commitment to the community runs deep, serving on boards for the Huntsville SOF Network and the YMCA, as well as serving as Executive Director of the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE) Foundation.
Momentum Leaders will formally recognize the 2026 Women of Impact during RISE 2026: Leading with Courage and Clarity, Momentum’s annual leadership conference, on March 3 at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center (BJCC).
Registration for the conference closes February 20. For more information about the conference, click here.
