2026 Honorees

Abilene celebrates Dorothy Drones, a 2026 Woman of Outstanding Achievement! With over 50 years of dedicated service at Abilene Regional Medical Center and a 2023 ICAN Hero Award for her neighborhood revitalization efforts, Dorothy’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment. As President of the Abilene Woman’s Club and District Missionary for the Church of God in Christ, she bridges the gap between professional excellence and spiritual leadership.

A true catalyst for change, Dorothy inspires the next generation by awarding scholarships to young girls and mentoring women to be strong "Christian citizens." Whether she is increasing club membership or volunteering with Las Aficionados at the Grace Museum, her influence is felt across every corner of the city. Her life of integrity and "boots-on-the-ground" service makes her an pillar of the Abilene community.

Abilene celebrates Lythia "Lynn" Jackson, a 2026 Woman of Outstanding Achievement! Known affectionately as "Abilene's chief social worker," Lynn has spent over three decades as a visionary for human services. From founding the Community Action Program in 1990 to her current leadership as Program Director at United Way of Abilene, she has dedicated her life to ensuring that neighbors in crisis are met with warmth, dignity, and a path toward stability.

A master collaborator and mentor, Lynn’s impact stretches across 19 counties, where she ensures essential resources like housing, food, and counseling reach those who need them most. Beyond her professional expertise as a Certified Community Resource Specialist, she leads by example, instilling a culture of "giving back" within her own family and church. Lynn’s career is a masterclass in compassion, proving that true leadership is found in the tireless pursuit of helping others thrive.

Abilene celebrates Nancy Miller, a 2026 Woman of Outstanding Achievement! A true trailblazer, Nancy’s 40-year tenure as President of Christian Homes & Family Services transformed countless lives, reflecting her lifelong identity as a servant leader. From her early days as an elementary teacher to her historic role as one of the first women in the Kiwanis Club—and the only person elected twice as District Governor—Nancy has consistently shattered ceilings while lifting others up.

As the current President of Women for ACU (WACU), Nancy remains a catalyst for inspiration, bridging the gap between generations through mentorship and vital scholarships. Her influence extends from the pews of Highland Church of Christ to the youth programs of the Key Club, proving that her passion for children and community only grows with time. A respected mentor and a beacon of integrity, Nancy continues to define what it means to lead with a heart for service and a vision for the future.

Abilene celebrates Dee Moore, a 2026 Woman of Outstanding Achievement! A history-maker and the first Black resident to be named Abilene Citizen of the Year, Dee’s impact is as vast as her 47-year career with Blue Cross Blue Shield. From her rise as a keypunch operator to Vice President, she has brought that same tenacity to over a dozen local boards, including the Development Corporation of Abilene, the Betty Hardwick Center, and the United Way, earning her a reputation as one of the most respected voices in our business community.

As a visionary for equity, Dee was instrumental in securing a rare federal grant to pilot the Community Navigator Program, providing vital resources for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Whether she is honoring a promise to sustain the Abilene Black Chamber of Commerce or mentoring the next generation of leaders, Dee lives by her own powerful philosophy: "Do all you can, for whomever you can, while you have the chance." Her wit, wisdom, and "never say no" spirit make her a true cornerstone of Abilene.

Abilene celebrates Dr. Helen Usera, a 2026 Woman of Outstanding Achievement! As the Executive Director of Development for Cisco College and a proud Veteran, Helen has rapidly become one of Abilene’s most effective champions for growth. Whether securing nearly $1 million in grants for small businesses or establishing the Cisco College Foundation Fund to provide scholarships in perpetuity, her ability to turn a vision into reality is matched only by her tireless work ethic.

A true mentor and "Big Sister," Helen ensures that women are not just present, but have a seat at the table. From co-chairing statewide leadership conferences to coordinating volunteers for the Children's Art & Literature Festival, she is physically involved in nearly every nonprofit success story in town. With her constant smile and willingness to lend a hand, Helen has endeared herself to the community, proving that leadership is most powerful when it is rooted in service and mentorship.