2021 Women of Influence

They are leaders in our community making it a better place to live, work and play while blazing a trail for others to follow.

Women of Influence 2021
Portraits by Natalie Jackson Photography

Greater Peoria is fortunate to have many extraordinary women leaders in our community. During times of great change, their natural abilities shine brightly on the public stage, in the boardroom, in the workplace and at home—as they meet today’s challenges with unwavering determination.

They are leaders in small business, economic development, government, education and the nonprofit world, making our community a better place to live, work and play while blazing a trail for others to follow. We are proud to introduce Peoria Magazine's 2021 Women of Influence.

Leigh Ann Brown
Morton Chamber of Commerce/Morton EDC
Bringing people and resources together to create economic growth 

Renee Gorrell
CSE Software/Simformotion LLC
Pursuing excellence in technology and business leadership

Dawn Jeffries
Tri-County Urban League
Leading the way to maximum impact on the lives of Peorians

Cindy Morris
Peoria Public Schools Foundation
Supporting pathways for students' social and academic success

Jessica Thomas
Peoria County
Maintaining fiscal strength and accountability through public service