2023 Texas Women’s Hall of Fame inductees announced

Selected for their outstanding achievements and their impact on Texas history, eight Texas women will be inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame. These eight prominent figures were nominated by their peers for their accomplishments in their respective fields, including business, community service, philanthropy, public service, science, sports and more.

The induction ceremony will be hosted by the Office of the Governor and First Lady Cecilia Abbott on Nov. 9. The inducted women will join a host of historical women including former First Ladies, astronauts, entrepreneurs, public servants, Olympic athletes – and others of significant note. In addition, as part of a new tradition, pioneering Texan women from past generations will be honored at the event. The attendees will recognize Melissa Dora Oliver-Eakle, an Amarillo citizen known for her work as a businesswoman and philanthropist.

The inductees into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame are as follows:

Leta Andrews (Athletics) for her work in athletics for over five decades inspiring students as a teacher and coach.
Antonietta Quigg (Science/Technology) due to her impact performing critical marine-related research at Texan universities.
Opal Lee (Civic Leadership) in honor of her extensive service as a community leader and nationwide civil rights advocate for underrepresented groups of all races, ages and backgrounds.
Lavinia Masters (Advocacy/Community Service) for her outspoken and continuous support for survivors of sexual violence and her pursuit of justice.
Elizabeth Suarez (Public Service) for her government leadership, service and groundbreaking work building a seamless domestic and international transportation network across Texas.
Val LaMantia (Business) for her acumen as the owner and managing partner of a beverage distribution company, her service to the McAllen community, and her contribution to founding the STARS Scholarship Fund.
Mary Horn (Public Service) in posthumous recognition of her 26 years of public service and as the first female and longest-serving judge for Denton County.
Charlotte Sharp (Philanthropy) is another posthumous inductee for her philanthropic efforts in helping the hungry, sick, and unsheltered.