Dr. Cheryl Polote-Williamson’s Women of Influence Awards Crowns 18 Trailblazers in Dallas
Soul Reborn's mission to restore and empower women takes center stage as more than 750 of North Texas' most influential women gather to declare their Victory
The Statler Hotel was transformed on the morning of Friday, March 20, 2026, into a glittering celebration of sisterhood, service, and success. The Fourth Annual Women of Influence Awards Luncheon, hosted by national philanthropist and global media executive Dr. Cheryl Polote-Williamson, brought together 18 trailblazing honorees and more than 750 guests for a powerful Women’s History Month tribute that was equal parts gala and grassroots movement.
From the moment guests arrived, the energy was electric. Mimosas flowed freely, vendor tables lined the transformed venue, and women from every walk of life dressed their absolute best, not to compete, but to collectively celebrate. This year’s theme, “Victory,” was not merely decorative. It was a declaration.
“It is not about who has the biggest title or the most followers. It’s about the heart behind the work, the sacrifices, and the faith,” said Dr. Polote-Williamson, founder and CEO of Williamson Media Group, LLC. “This is what God has called me to do until my last breath: to lift, to love, to support, and to make a significant impact.”
The catered three-course meal kept conversation flowing between tables of executives, entrepreneurs, pastors, and media figures who gathered not just to be seen, but to pour into one another. Luxurious gift bags rounded out the experience, packed with premium offerings from brands including Estée Lauder, Mary Kay, Lamik Beauty, Essie, and more. Co-host and community leader Adrienne Barrett set the tone early, reminding the room that the luncheon exists not just to honor achievement, but to fuel what comes next.
Among those honored was Cicely Gay, Founder of The Amplifier and Board Chairwoman of the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation. Washington D.C. Bureau Chief and Senior White House Reporter April Ryan was recognized as “The Tenacious Truth-Teller,” while Kelley Cornish, President and CEO of the T.D. Jakes Foundation, was honored as “The Influential Catalyst.” Valeisha Butterfield, Founder of Global State of Women and SEED Media, received the title “The Cultural Architect.” Healthcare leaders Karan Staggers and Sharan Allen, the President and COO duo behind ALMS Community Health Center, walked the red carpet together, their dual presence a testament to the power of women building side by side. Also among the honorees were NYT and USA Today best-selling author Kimberla Lawson Roby, philanthropist Sharyn Ellison of The Ellison Foundation, and 15 additional leaders spanning finance, faith, media, and the arts.
In a deeply personal moment, Dr. Polote-Williamson surprised the room with an 18th recognition, presenting her mother, Gretta L. Polote, with the Dream Pusher Award for the pivotal role she played in her daughter’s journey.
The luncheon also marked a historic fundraising milestone. The event raised an additional $125,000 for Soul Reborn onsite. Honoree Sharyn Ellison announced a $50,000 contribution from Lowe’s during her acceptance speech. The T.D. Jakes Foundation pledged $25,000, and Texas Capital committed $50,000 toward Soul Reborn’s new Six Month Incubator Entrepreneur program, which will serve 50 business owners. In a surprise tribute during the VIP post-event reception, Kelley Cornish presented Dr. Polote-Williamson with the Champion for Change Award, making her the first woman in the T.D. Jakes Foundation’s history to receive the honor.
The luncheon was made possible through the generous support of American Airlines, Lowe’s, Simmons Bank, the T.D. Jakes Foundation, 3FIVE Wealth, Black Lives Matter, Agape Life Multicultural Services, Mansfield Funeral Home and Cremations, The Polote Corporation, and She Empowerment Global.
Beneath all the glamour beats a deeper purpose. Soul Reborn is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of disadvantaged, disenfranchised, and formerly incarcerated women through education, mentorship, and economic empowerment. Proceeds fund grants and year-round resources for women working to rebuild their lives, making every seat at that table an act of communal investment.
Follow Dr. Cheryl Polote-Williamson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylpwilliamson/
Learn more about Soul Reborn at: https://soulreborn.org/
