Dr. Patricia Houston honored among 2026 '100 Women of Excellence' recipients on Capitol Hill

Dr. Patricia Houston was recognized Sept. 18 at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., as part of the 2026 “100 Women of Excellence” celebration. The honor spotlights women whose leadership, service and community impact are shaping organizations and communities across the country.

Why it matters: - The 2026 “100 Women of Excellence” recognition highlights women whose leadership and service are creating measurable impact in their professions and communities. - The honor gives Dr. Patricia Houston a national platform tied to leadership, mentorship and community influence. - The ceremony also reflects a broader effort to recognize women advancing across business, education, philanthropy, media, public service, faith-based organizations, entrepreneurship and community development.

What happened: - Dr. Patricia Houston was officially recognized as a 2026 “100 Women of Excellence” honoree on Sept. 18, 2026. - The ceremony took place at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in Room SD-G50. - The recognition was presented by the 100 Women of Excellence Committee in partnership with the Honorable Erica Thomas-Adeyemi. - The event was part of Congressional Black Caucus Weekend activities in Washington, D.C. - The Honorable Georgia State Representative Billy Mitchell attended the ceremony. - Honorees and guests continued the celebration afterward at the 100 Women of Excellence Brunch experience in Washington, D.C. - Judge Penny Brown Reynolds was among the distinguished leaders and guests at the brunch.

The details: - The national ceremony honored 100 women for leadership, professional achievement, community service and meaningful change. - The Capitol Hill gathering included an official group photograph. - The initiative celebrates women who are not only achieving professionally but also using their platforms to strengthen communities and create opportunities for others. - Dr. Houston said the recognition is “a tremendous honor” and a reminder to continue serving, leading and encouraging others. - Dr. Houston said recognition carries responsibility and creates an opportunity to mentor another leader and help someone else see what is possible. - The brunch was designed to provide celebration, networking and inspiration for the honorees and guests.

Between the lines: - The timing around Congressional Black Caucus Weekend suggests the honor is also meant to connect accomplished women with a wider national leadership audience. - The event frames excellence as both achievement and service, not just professional status. - Dr. Houston’s remarks emphasize a mentorship-minded view of recognition, where visibility should translate into support for others.

What's next: - The 100 Women of Excellence initiative is positioned to continue building relationships among honorees and expanding their collective impact. - Dr. Houston said she plans to carry the honor forward through continued service, encouragement and community-building. - The national recognition is expected to remain part of the broader 2026 celebration of women’s leadership.

The bottom line: - Dr. Patricia Houston’s Capitol Hill honor places her among a national class of women recognized for turning leadership into service and influence into community impact.