Award Categories & Nomination Questions


At Inspiring Women of Iowa, four awards are given to individuals who display those characteristics and have made an impact on their communities. All individuals recognized are chosen from nominations submitted by you. Details for each award are listed below.

  • Given to a person of any gender who advocates for women’s equality. This may include showing commitment for the development of women leaders, standing up for women in the workplace or community, showing leadership to enhance gender diversity, and removing barriers women commonly face.

    Nomination Questions:

    1. How do they advocate for women?  Please include specific examples. (3,000 character limit)

    2. What makes them uniquely qualified for this award? Please include specific examples. (3,000 character limit)

  • Given to someone who shows immeasurable courage. She shows strength in the face of fear, pain or grief. She perseveres in the face of adversity and stands up for what is right.

    1. Demonstrate how the nominee serves as a role model and is inspiring to girls and other women in her profession or community, encompassing the above criteria to be a woman of courage, confidence, or character. Please provide examples of how they excel in that category. (3,000 character limit)

    2. How has she inspired others? Please include specific examples. (3,000 character limit)

  • Given to someone who continues to demonstrate confidence, a positive state of mind that guides her steps and actions. Confidence comes from feelings of well-being, acceptance of her body and mind, and belief in her own ability, skills and experience.

    Nomination Questions:

    1. Demonstrate how the nominee serves as a role model and is inspiring to girls and other women in her profession or community, encompassing the above criteria to be a woman of courage, confidence, or character. Please provide examples of how they excel in that category. (3,000 character limit)

    2. How has she positively impacted her community? Please include specific examples.(3,000 character limit)

  • Given to someone who has great character in their relationships and experiences. It is the quality of her actions when there is no apparent benefit to acting well. She shows great integrity in how she treats herself and others.

    Nomination Questions:

    1. Demonstrate how the nominee serves as a role model and is inspiring to girls and other women in her profession or community, encompassing the above criteria to be a woman of courage, confidence, or character. Please provide examples of how they excel in that category. (3,000 character limit)

    2. How has she positively influenced others? Please include specific examples. (3,000 character limit)

All nominations must include the nominee’s contact information. Nominees must be a current resident of the state of Iowa in order to qualify. You will select what award you are nominating them for and answer the assigned questions. You are also invited to submit two additional pages of supporting documents (photos, stories, letters of recommendation). Prepare your nomination by reviewing our nomination tips & frequently asked questions.