Submitted by Whatcom Women in Business
Whatcom Women in Business (WWiB) will celebrate its 2026 Professional Women of the Year (PWOTY) Awards on Friday, September 25, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Evergreen Gardens in Ferndale, honoring four women whose work has shaped businesses and community life across Whatcom County.
Stephanie Morrell joined the Bellingham Bells in 2013, was named the team’s first female General Manager in 2016, and became President & GM in 2024 – a tenure marked by tripled team revenue and two West Coast League Executive of the Year honors.
Madison Price Zender is a Rising Partner at VSH CPAs, where she’s built her career helping Whatcom County business owners grow and manage their finances. Dr. Elizabeth Hampton, a physical therapist in practice since 1987, founded CorePhysio and has led it as CEO and Clinic Director ever since, building one of the region’s go-to practices for recovery and active living.
Lori Reece, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Whatcom County and RE/MAX Gateway, will receive WWiB’s Community Legacy Award. She founded her brokerage in 1991 with four brokers; it now supports more than 125 real estate professionals across six offices in Northwest Washington, and she’s twice been named RE/MAX Pacific Northwest Broker/Owner of the Year.
The evening includes heavy appetizers, an awards presentation, and a raffle. Proceeds support WWiB’s mission of advancing women in business across Whatcom County, including its scholarship program for local women pursuing higher education. Tickets are available at wwib.org.
WHAT: Professional Women of the Year Awards Celebration WHEN: Friday, September 25, 2026, 5:30-8 p.m. WHERE: Evergreen Gardens, Ferndale, TICKETS & SPONSORSHIP here.
About Whatcom Women in Business
Whatcom Women in Business is a Bellingham-based nonprofit supporting women in business through professional development, mentorship, and community connection across Whatcom County.
