March 2, 2026

Honorees include Angel City Football Club, Emma Bloomberg, Sarah Bond, Channing Dungey, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Fei-Fei Li, Lainey Wilson and Peggy Winckowski 

USA TODAY, part of USA TODAY Co., Inc. (NYSE: TDAY), announced the 2026 Women of the Year. These honorees embody strength, determination, and serve as industry disruptors and inspirational changemakers. Representing a wide spectrum of backgrounds, from technology to music, sports, entertainment, philanthropy, advocacy and more, these pioneers redefine what’s possible for women everywhere, setting powerful examples for future generations as we celebrate Women’s History Month in March. 

Honorees are selected by editorial members of the USA TODAY team to recognize inspiring women who align with the mission to empower and enrich communities across the nation. The 2026 USA TODAY Women of the Year national honorees are: 

• Emma Bloomberg – With a background rooted in government and nonprofit sectors, Emma Bloomberg is the founder and CEO of Murmuration, a nonprofit technology company that empowers community-focused organizations to create more equitable outcomes by providing access to data, technology and research insights. Over 500 organizations across 26 states, often faced with fierce competition and limited resources, partner with Murmuration to better understand their communities, reach people more effectively, and strengthen democratic participation. 

• Sarah Bond – The former President of Xbox at Microsoft Gaming, Sarah Bond led strategy, marketing, product and partnerships for the Xbox brand. As one of the industry’s most influential executives, she has helped redefine success in gaming. From spearheading Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard to championing innovation and inclusion across the Xbox ecosystem, her impact resonates beyond the field of interactive entertainment. 

• Channing Dungey – Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group and WBD US Networks, Channing Dungey has reshaped modern television by expanding who gets to tell stories – and which stories get told. Her expertise in storytelling and production continues to dominate the television landscape, creating some of the most talked-about shows, including the Emmy-winning “The Pitt”, “The Bachelor” and “Ted Lasso.” 

• Rachel Goldberg-Polin – A humanitarian and advocate who became a prominent voice for families after her son, Hersh, was abducted by Hamas, Rachel Goldberg-Polin fought tirelessly for the hostages’ release, meeting with global leaders, speaking at major international events and appearing in global media. Originally from Chicago and living in Israel since 2008, her story has become one of resilience in the wake of unthinkable tragedy, and she now helps countless others cope with grief. 

• Fei-Fei Li, Ph.D. – Often referred to as the “Godmother of AI,” Fei-Fei Li is widely recognized for creating ImageNet and the ImageNet Challenge. She is the co-founder of World Labs, which just raised $1 billion in funding, and is Co-Director of the Stanford Human-Centered AI Institute. Her visionary leadership lies at the intersection of science, policy and social impact as she works to keep AI human focused. 

• Lainey Wilson – Lainey Wilson is one of country music’s most notable trailblazers, having reshaped the genre while utilizing her platform to uplift others. She has earned top honors at the Academy of Country Music Awards and cemented her legacy with her induction into the Grand Ole Opry. Beyond her music, Lainey founded the Heart Like A Truck Fund, reflecting her unwavering commitment to supporting impactful causes. 

• Peggy Winckowski – Affectionately called “Grandma Peggy,” Peggy Winckowski is a St. Louis native known for serving Wednesday breakfast to dozens of students from Bishop DuBourg High School. Named the “Wednesday Breakfast Club,” the idea was the brainchild of her grandson, Sam, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver at age 15. Nonetheless, the tradition he started has continued and, each week, Peggy cooks eight to ten pounds of bacon, four dozen eggs and more, providing a safe space for community and healing.  

• Angel City Football Club – Based in Los Angeles, California, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) is a prominent professional women’s soccer team. The franchise was co-founded by a powerhouse group of women including Academy Award-winning actress and activist Natalie Portman, venture capitalist Kara Nortman and media entrepreneur Julie Uhrman. When Willow Bay, Dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, acquired a controlling stake in ACFC and oversight of the Board of Directors, the team became one of the highest valued women’s sports franchises. The club stands as a bold example of female empowerment and underscores the importance of investment in women’s sports. 

“The impact of these extraordinary women is undeniable, and I’m endlessly inspired by the purpose, courage, and leadership of the USA TODAY’s 2026 Women of the Year honorees,” said Monica Richardson, Senior Vice President of USA TODAY. “Through the reach and storytelling power of USA TODAY, we are proud to elevate their voices and share their stories with communities across the country—because their work doesn’t just shape headlines, it changes lives.” 

National honorees will be featured in USA TODAY’s print editions throughout the month and celebrated at an exclusive event hosted by Angel City Football Club at BMO Stadium on March 27, 2026. 

To read the stories of the distinguished 2026 honorees, visit womenoftheyear.usatoday.com. USA TODAY Women of the year merchandise is available by visiting https://usatodaystore.com/usa-today-co/usa-today-collections/womens-history-month-collection/.