#USA #Las Vegas #2025 Awards #Women in Tech #Alliance of Channel Women

Celebrating the 2025 ACW Award Winners

The Alliance of Channel Women (ACW) recently celebrated remarkable achievements in the technology sector during their annual ACWConnect Live event held in Las Vegas. This year, six extraordinary women were recognized for their exceptional contributions through the 2025 LEAD, INSPIRE, and EMPOWER Awards, shining a light on their influence as leaders within the channel community.

Honoring Outstanding Female Leaders

During the prestigious awards ceremony, ACW recognized trailblazers who have made significant strides in supporting and elevating women in technology. JoElla Aranda, the Chair of the ACW Awards Committee, expressed pride in honoring these winners, highlighting their efforts to drive progress and strengthen the community of women shaping the future of the technology channel.

2025 LEAD Award Winners

The LEAD Award showcases outstanding female leaders who exemplify qualities like courage, creativity, collaboration, connectivity, and confidence. This year's winners included:

• - Alexie Teferi, Director of Channel Sales at CloudRider Networks, has been instrumental in fostering business growth and developing impactful mentorship programs, enhancing diversity within the channel.
• - Bailey Terrell, Channel Sales and Marketing Director at CallHarbor, was acknowledged for her innovative approach to partner engagement and community leadership, inspiring collaboration and growth.
• - Julianne Zuber, Vice President of Channels and Alliances at CDW, has significantly impacted the business with her innovative channel leadership while mentoring women across the technology field.

EMPOWER Award Winners

The EMPOWER Award is presented to individuals admired for their commitment to uplifting other women in their professional journeys. This year’s recipients are:

• - Katie Holyfield, TSD Partner Executive at NiCE, recognized for her dedication to mentoring and supporting others, aiding their professional development with practical strategies and encouragement.
• - Susanne McHugh, National Director of Channel at CommandLink, who champions women in tech, urging them to seize opportunities confidently and take bold career steps.

INSPIRE Award Winner

In memory of ACW member Carolee Cannata, the INSPIRE Award honors a woman who inspires others through kindness and empowerment. The 2025 recipient is Debra Droz, Assistant Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at CitiusTech and Founder of PartnerProp. Debra has consistently exhibited authentic kindness and trust-building, profoundly impacting individuals and communities.

Nomination Process

The winners were selected by the ACW Awards Committee based on nominations submitted online between January and February 2026. Both third-party nominations and self-nominations were welcomed as long as applicants could demonstrate effective leadership and innovation in the channel, along with support for advocacy and mentorship for women.

About the Alliance of Channel Women

Founded in 2010, the Alliance of Channel Women is a notable non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting women in the technology industry's indirect channel. Through education, community engagement, advocacy, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, ACW brings women together to enhance their careers and expand leadership roles. For those interested in learning more or becoming a member, visit www.allianceofchannelwomen.org.

Conclusion

The recognition of these outstanding women not only highlights their individual successes but also serves as a call to action for industry stakeholders to continue fostering an inclusive environment. As the technology landscape keeps evolving, the role of women leaders becomes increasingly vital in shaping a diverse and innovative future.