FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Sunita Theiss
media@womenspublicleadership.net

Philadelphia, PA (May 15, 2026)—Women's Public Leadership Network (WPLN), a non-partisan nonprofit that equips and encourages women to seek public office, announced today the recipients of its 2026 Leadership Awards, which will be presented during the organization's Annual National Summit, June 4–5, at The Union League of Philadelphia.

This year, WPLN will recognize three distinguished leaders whose careers reflect the organization's mission of strengthening public leadership and expanding opportunities for women to serve. In addition to its annual Architect of Society Award and Daniel Anthony Award, WPLN will introduce a new honor—the Distinguished Leadership Award—to recognize exceptional women whose leadership has left a lasting impact on their communities and institutions.

"We are proud to recognize three extraordinary leaders whose careers demonstrate that leadership is about service, integrity, and creating opportunities for others," said Larissa Martinez, Founder and President of Women's Public Leadership Network. "Each of this year's honorees has strengthened the institutions and communities they serve while inspiring future generations of leaders. We are honored to celebrate their accomplishments at our Fifth Annual National Summit."

WPLN will present the Architect of Society Award, to Edith Jorge-Tuñón. Inspired by Harriet Beecher Stowe's observation that "Women are the real architects of society," the award recognizes a woman whose leadership has helped shape the systems, coalitions, and pathways that make effective public leadership possible.

Over nearly two decades, Jorge-Tuñón has built a career in public affairs, coalition building, and leadership development, working with leaders in all 50 states. Throughout her career, she has led national coalitions, directed large-scale field efforts, and strengthened leadership networks across the country. In her current role with the State Government Leadership Foundation, she continues to support effective governance and leadership development at the state level.

"Edith has spent her career building the relationships and infrastructure that help leaders succeed," Martinez said. "Her ability to bring people together, strengthen partnerships, and invest in long-term leadership development embodies exactly what the Architect of Society Award was created to recognize."

The organization will present the Daniel Anthony Award to David N. Taylor, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association. Named in honor of Susan B. Anthony's father, the award recognizes a man who has demonstrated meaningful and sustained support for women in public leadership.

Through nearly three decades of leadership at the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association, Taylor has played a key role in shaping conversations that impact communities across the state. Beyond his professional accomplishments, his service across numerous educational and public policy organizations reflects a longstanding commitment to mentoring leaders and expanding opportunities for others.

"David understands that great leadership includes investing in others," Martinez said. "Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a genuine commitment to supporting women leaders, strengthening civic institutions, and encouraging the next generation of public servants. He exemplifies the spirit of the Daniel Anthony Award."

For the first time, WPLN will also present its new Distinguished Leadership Award to Joan Carter, recognizing a woman whose exceptional leadership and commitment to service have made a lasting impact on her community.

Carter made history in 2010 as the first female president of The Union League of Philadelphia, becoming the institution's 67th president after joining the League as part of the first class of women admitted to membership in 1986. Her groundbreaking leadership marked a significant milestone in the organization's history and demonstrated how thoughtful, principled leadership can strengthen longstanding institutions.

"Joan Carter's career is a remarkable example of perseverance, excellence, and servant leadership," Martinez said. "Her historic leadership at The Union League of Philadelphia opened new doors while strengthening one of our nation's most respected civic institutions. We are especially honored to present the inaugural Distinguished Leadership Award to someone whose legacy so perfectly reflects its purpose."

The three honorees will be recognized during WPLN's 2026 Leadership Awards Dinner as part of the organization's Annual National Summit, bringing together women leaders from across the country for two days of leadership development, networking, and inspiration.

Founded to equip and encourage women to seek public office and civic leadership, Women's Public Leadership Network provides practical training, mentorship, and resources to women committed to serving their communities.

To learn more about Women's Public Leadership Network and its programs, visit womenspublicleadership.net.

About Women’s Public Leadership Network

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that educates, organizes, and inspires women to enter public office across the United States. We aim to mitigate barriers women face by partnering with a network of state-based organizations who identify, engage, and train women to run for elected office, obtain political appointments, and become more involved in the political process.  WPLN also offers tools and opportunities designed to equip women with the knowledge and resources they need as they step up, get involved in the political process, and lead.