Momentum Leaders, a nonprofit focused on advancing women in leadership, has announced its 2026 Women of Impact honorees: Rosilyn “Roz” Houston, Marianne Sharbel, and PeggyLee Wright. The honorees were selected in recognition of their contributions to business, politics, and community life in Alabama.

Rosilyn “Roz” Houston

Roz Houston is widely recognized for her trailblazing career as the highest-ranking female and first woman of color to serve in the C-Suite and Management Committees of two global banking firms, reporting directly to the U.S. CEO and global division heads. Houston oversaw enterprise-wide human capital strategy, cultural transformation, executive succession, board-level compensation and governance matters with careful attention to equity and inclusion throughout the organization. Houston is equally dedicated to community, family and faith, having served on numerous nonprofit boards, including as Chair and Interim CEO of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women and fostering equitable workplaces has inspired countless professionals to pursue higher levels of servant-leadership.

Rosilyn “Roz” Houston

Marianne Sharbel

Marianne Sharbel’s visionary leadership and compassionate advocacy have left an indelible mark on families facing medical crises in Alabama. As the driving force behind the Birmingham Ronald McDonald House, Marianne transformed a bold idea into a vital sanctuary for thousands of families of children undergoing medical treatment. Her collaboration with community leaders, businesses, and volunteers brought this essential resource to life, providing comfort, support, and hope during the most challenging times. Marianne’s dedication to community health and well-being exemplifies the spirit of service, resilience, and impactful leadership that Momentum Leaders honors in its Women of Impact.

Marianne Sharbel

PeggyLee Wright

PeggyLee Wright is an aviator, a leader, and business innovator. As a former U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk pilot, she flew with the 82nd Airborne Division, executed missions in Honduras and Central America, built a foundation of grit, resilience, and operational excellence during her command at Fort Lee, Virginia. In 2019, she founded THE COMPANY YOU KEEP in Huntsville, a firm specializing in strategic consulting to help organizations grow with the right mix of leadership development, business strategy, and real-world execution. Lee’s commitment to serving her community runs deep. She serves on the boards of Huntsville SOF Network and the YMCA, and as Executive Director of the Alabama School of Cyber Technology & Engineering (ASCTE) Foundation, she is leading the charge to shape the next generation of cyber and engineering minds, because she believes every child deserves the chance to dream big, break barriers, and serve.

Momentum Leaders will recognize the honorees at the Rise 2026 Leadership Conference. The event is open to the public, with registration available through Feb. 20.

For more information about Momentum Leaders and the Women of Impact initiative, please visit www.momentumleaders.org or contact April, CEO, at abenetollo@momentumleaders.org.