News
August 1st, 2026
Women’s Fund Holmberg Award Nominations for 2026 are NOW OPEN
Is there someone you know who has made a lasting difference in the lives of other women living in Tompkins County?
Is there a volunteer at your work, business, school or organization who you’d like to thank for sharing their time, talent, and treasures?
We want to help you recognize that person!
The Laura Holmberg Award, will be presented at this year’s Women’s Fund Fall Luncheon on October 15 at the Emerson Suites at Ithaca College. Please save the date.
Nominations are now open HERE for the 2026 Laura Holmberg Award. Nominations must be received by September 2, 2026.
Established in 2006 by Community Foundation and the Holmberg family in memory of Laura Holmberg, this honor recognizes the “unsung heroes” in our community, whose contribution advances the Women’s Fund’s core mission, focusing on women and girls, and who have done so in an unpaid capacity. That is, the work has not been part of the person’s professional role. Consider the award a Lifetime Achievement in volunteering.
On behalf of the Women’s Fund and the Community Foundation of Tompkins County, thank you for your consideration and nominations. And, of course, thanks to you and your organization for all the great work you do for our community! To learn more about Community Foundation’s Women’s Fund, please visit our website.
Key Guidelines:
The award is designated for volunteers; please nominate individuals whose contributions occurred outside of paid roles.
The impact of the volunteer service is more important for this award than how long a person has been volunteering.
Nominees of all ages and experiences are welcome.
Nominees must identify as female.
Clearly describe how your nominee has positively affected the lives of women and/or girls.
Share as many details as possible!
If getting others involved helps you with more detail, go for it! Feel free to form a group to work on one nomination or encourage others to submit additional nominations for your nominee.
Laura Holmberg Award Recipients
2025 Ann Martin
2024 Mary Pat Dolan
2023 Susie Ferris Hatch
2022 Lynnette Scofield
2021 Sandy True
2020 Ana Ortiz
2019 Heidi Goldstein
2018 Diane Shafer
2017 Joan Abrams
2016 Phoebe Brown
2015 Joan Barber
2014 Schelley Michell-Nunn
2013 Beverly Baker
2012 Carol Kammen
2011 Mimi Melegrito
2010 Jennie Graham
2009 Rebecca Elgie
2008 Betsy Darlington
2007 Sara Pines
2006 Joan Ormondroyd
2005 Rachel Siegel