Michigan Women's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Celebration

Celebrate the women who didn’t just make history. They changed what was possible.

Join Michigan Women Forward for the 2026 Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, an inspiring celebration of extraordinary women whose leadership, courage, innovation, and determination have left an indelible mark on Michigan and beyond.

This year, we’ll welcome eight remarkable women into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame — from pioneers who broke barriers generations ago to contemporary leaders whose impact is still unfolding today.

Come hear their stories. Celebrate their legacies. And be there as a new class takes its place in Michigan history.

Why Attend

• Experience the stories of seven extraordinary Michigan women
• Celebrate trailblazers whose achievements changed industries, communities, and lives
• Connect with leaders and changemakers from across Michigan
• Be part of one of Michigan Women Forward’s most meaningful traditions

Meet the 2026 Inductees

Historical Inductees

• Huldah Neal: The first female conservation officer in the United States
• Olga Loizon: Entrepreneur and founder of Olga’s Kitchen
• Suzanne Delano Parish: WWII Women Airforce Service Pilot and co-founder of the Air Zoo
• Margaret Eliza McLaren: Pioneering nurse and healthcare leader whose name lives on through McLaren Health Care

Contemporary Inductees

• Gail Perry-Mason: Financial leader, author and founder of Money Matters for Youth
• Minnie Forbes: Trailblazing Negro League baseball team owner and business leader
• Denise Ilitch: Business, civic and higher education leader
• Birgit Klohs: Transformative economic development leader who helped reshape West Michigan

Hosted by Carol Cain

Guiding us through this extraordinary evening will be Carol Cain, 13-time Emmy Award-winning senior producer and host of Michigan Matters on CBS Detroit.

Join us to celebrate eight remarkable women, hear the stories behind their impact, and witness their induction into Michigan history.

Tickets

• General Seating: $150 (Doors open at 1 p.m.)

  Note: Power of 100 Women members receive $25 off General Seating; ask your P100 rep for your special code.

About Michigan Women Forward

For 40 years, Michigan Women Forward has expanded opportunity across Michigan by investing in entrepreneurs and elevating women leaders. As a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), MWF provides access to capital, education, and resources that help small business owners start, strengthen, and grow their businesses. Through our leadership and recognition programs, we also celebrate the women shaping Michigan’s workplaces, communities, and future.