BPW PRESENT “WOMAN, BOSS OF THE YEAR” AWARDS AT HERITAGE WOODS

The Centralia Business Professional Women [BPW], in partnership with the Centralia Chamber of Commerce, announced its 2025 Woman and Boss of the Year Tuesday evening at Heritage Woods.

Retired nurse and lifelong mentor, Georgia Lambert, was honored as the Woman of the Year.

Ellie McClelland of BPW presented the award to Lambert, saying, “This award isn’t just about what someone achieves in their career. It’s about who they are. The kind of person who lifts up others, gives back to their community, and inspires others to do the same.”

“This woman has given years of service in the healthcare field, especially nursing. Her dedication has not only touched patients, but also future nurses who look up to her as a role model. She’s the kind of professional who believes in doing the right things - with skill, with empathy and with heart. She is earned her RN, BSN, MSN, and even served as the class president of her nursing program, showing early on the leadership that would guide her career. She is also an active member of the Illinois Nursing Association, where she continues to inspire others.”

Lambert’s family and friends were in attendance to both surprise and honor and celebrate her.

Georgia’s heart for helping others and her incredible legacy of compassion make her an absolute treasure to Centralia.

This year’s Boss of the Year is Maria Pryor, Principal of St. Mary’s Grade School.

Becca Deomes of BPW awarded Pyror, saying she was described as, “a tireless advocate who leads by example, not by authority, and transforms not only in numbers but in spirit. She doesn’t deserve the title of Boss of the Year, she’s already earned it…she is someone who is a mentor, a leader, a role model.”

“The Boss of the Year is somebody that works alongside their staff to make their workplace better while leading by example,” Doemes continued. “This particular boss truly exhibits those qualities. It’s truly an honor to be recognized with all of these amazing past Bosses of the Year. What’s even more amazing is for your staff to truly believe that you are the best boss.”

During Deommes speech, Pryor’s family, friends and coworkers assembled in the room to help surprise and celebrate with her.

The annual awards ceremony was held at 5:00 PM, with the awards ceremony beginning at 5:30 PM. The event was catered by Heritage Woods.

The Woman of the Year Award has been awarded by the BPW organization since 1971. The Boss of the Year Award was implemented in 1991.