The Quad Cities area has never lacked for people willing to do the work. What sets a Woman of Influence apart is the vision to see what’s possible, the persistence to build it, and the generosity to bring others along.
The Women of Influence awards recognize women who have made a difference in the Quad Cities as role models and leaders in their fields and communities. Nominated by those who have witnessed their impact firsthand, and chosen by a committee of previous winners, this year’s honorees are just as inspiring as their predecessors.
A consistent theme can be found across this year’s honoree profiles: a commitment to building up the people and places around them — whether through community investment, environmental stewardship, or a willingness to go wherever the work is most needed.
“I’m so blessed to work somewhere that lets me do things like that, things that give me purpose,” said Jill Dubin, first vice president and Community Development and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) officer at Quad City Bank & Trust.
“It took me a long time to figure out that the things that come easily to me, or that I’m naturally interested in, or that give me full-body chills, are all superpowers,” said Rebecca Arnold, community impact and development manager at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Rock Island.
Through advocacy, innovation, and deep roots in the communities they serve, the 2026 Women of Influence are shaping the future of the Quad Cities.
In addition to recognizing the Women of Influence, the QCBJ also recognized one Emerging Woman of Influence. This award identifies one up-and-coming female leader who has not only achieved career success and recognition within her peer group, but is poised to take on a larger community-wide role.
This year’s Emerging Woman of Influence is Micaela Booth, Birdies for Charity director at the John Deere Classic, where she oversees the charitable arm of the region’s only PGA Tour event and helps direct millions of dollars in annual giving to hundreds of Quad Cities nonprofits.
The QCBJ will host the 2026 Women of Influence awards from 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at the QC Waterfront Center in Bettendorf. Tickets are available for this event, which includes networking, dinner and remarks from the winners.
Click the names below to read more about each honoree:
