ABWA - Iris Charter Chapter

On Tuesday, May 5, 2036, at Santuaire Atelier, ABWA proudly recognized the 2026 Scholarship Recipients, celebrating over 41 years of empowering women through education. Wanda Howell, chairperson of the Scholarship Committee, said, We are thrilled to honor the following outstanding recipients: Sarah Ahearn from UGA, Alana Hosford from Southern Crescent Technical College, Makiya Flowers, a high school graduate, Alicia Threatt, and Melissa Ward attending Savannah State University. This year, we not only awarded scholarships but also featured a panel of past recipients, including Mary Ellen Cole, Cora Flowers, and Shelby Pullin, who shared their inspiring experiences and insights with the audience. HAPPY 41st Anniversary Of The ABWA - Iris Charter Chapter!

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ABWA Iris Chapter Honors Dr. Cherryl Burks as 2026 Woman of the Year.

“Dr. Burks demonstrates her passion for young people and her community through every aspect of her life. We are proud to honor her and her work with this award,” said Nadine Tyft, President of the ABWA Iris Chapter.

Dr. Burks currently serves as Citizen Engagement Specialist for Spalding County and has been an active leader within the ABWA Iris Chapter, holding the position of Vice President for the past two years. She also chairs the organization’s New Promotions & Publicity Committee, where she has played a key role in elevating the chapter’s visibility and outreach.
Beyond her contributions to ABWA, Dr. Burks is deeply committed to community service. She serves as a board director for the GA Area Resource Center, the Salvation Army, the Kiwanis Club, and the Community Service Block Grant Advisory Board. Her leadership experience also includes prior service as Chairman of the Downtown Council and as a board member for Spalding County’s Department of Family & Children’s Services.
Prior to her current role in county administration, Dr. Burks dedicated more than 25 years to the field of education. She began her career at Griffin Technical Institute and continued with Southern Crescent Technical College, where she most recently served for 12 years as Director of Student Support Services. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications, two master’s degrees in Public Administration/Justice and Executive Leadership and Human Services, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

The ABWA Iris Chapter is dedicated to supporting business women in the Griffin community, and developing young women seeking to better their lives through advancing their education. We celebrate Dr. Burks’ outstanding leadership, professional accomplishments, and unwavering dedication to improving the Griffin-Spalding community.

Such a fun event....

033126 ABWA Fashion Show Shared

Photos from William P. Wilson Jr.
ABWA Drive The Runway Fashion Show
https://www.yogile.com/jpukawtms96/11m/share/?vsc=25dc28cb6

The ABWA Drive The Runway presented by Cronic was such a success.

Big thank you to our sponsors.

To purchase tickets:
ABWAevent.com

If interested in purchasing Errica Risper's book. Here is the information.
When It Comes to Loving You https://a.co/d/02Dfet8h