Governor Greg Abbott honors four exceptional women with the 2026 Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards
Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has announced the recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards, recognizing four women whose work and leadership have made a meaningful impact across state government.
The awards, presented every two years, celebrate women serving in Texas government who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional excellence, community involvement, and a commitment to improving the lives of Texans through public service.
Announcing the recipients, Governor Abbott praised the honorees for their dedication and the example they have set for future generations of public servants.
“Congratulations to the four remarkable women who have been selected as recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards,” said Governor Abbott. “These women have raised the bar for the next generation of leaders who will follow in their footsteps to serve, inspire, and make a remarkable difference in the lives of Texans. Cecilia and I are honored to have such extraordinary leaders in our great state as we create a more prosperous Texas for all.”
Four women recognized for outstanding service
This year’s Leadership Award was presented to Shunne Powell of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. The recognition honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership while serving the people of Texas.
Meredith Garcia of the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts received the Professional Development Award, recognizing her commitment to professional growth and excellence in state government.
The Community Involvement Award was presented to April Hernandez of the Texas Municipal Retirement System for her contributions beyond the workplace and her dedication to serving communities across the state.
Lorna Camacho of the Texas Department of Insurance earned the Rising Star Award, which recognizes emerging leaders who have shown outstanding promise early in their public service careers.
The selection process began with nominations submitted by leaders from Texas state agencies. Candidates were considered in four categories: Leadership, Professional Development, Community Involvement, and Rising Star.
After nominations were received, an independent selection committee reviewed the candidates and chose the recipients whose accomplishments best represented the purpose of each award category.
The Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards are intended to highlight the important contributions women make throughout state government while encouraging future generations of public servants.
The awards are supported by the Governor’s Commission for Women, an organization that works to expand opportunities for women across Texas through education, outreach, research, and referral services.
The State Agency Council also supports the commission by providing professional development opportunities and training for its members, helping strengthen leadership throughout Texas state government.
By recognizing these four women, state leaders say they hope to celebrate excellence in public service while encouraging continued leadership, innovation, and community engagement throughout agencies serving Texans every day.
