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Representation Matters.

40 Over 40 is a nationally recognized awards program dedicated to honoring and elevating the achievements of women by celebrating their impact, leadership, and contributions.

2025 NATIONAL NOMINATIONS OPEN

Our Mission

Our mission is to shine a national spotlight on the trailblazing women who have too often been underestimated, unseen, or unheard. Through the 40 Over 40 Awards, we honor the power, wisdom, and influence of women over 40—a group long overlooked in traditional recognition, yet responsible for some of the most meaningful contributions in business, culture, and community.

From visionary leaders and bold creators to quiet changemakers and everyday heroes, we celebrate women who meet life with strength, lead with purpose, and continue to redefine what it means to thrive—at every stage, in every space.

We exist to challenge outdated narratives—about age, success, and value—and to build a more inclusive and honest future. One where women are recognized not in spite of their age, background, or lived experience, but because of it. Because women don’t fade with time. They evolve. They deepen. And they rise.

Our Why

For starters…

1 in 4 Americans is a
WOMAN OVER 40

  • *That’s 25% of the country
  • *That’s 83 million strong

42

Average age of a female entrepreneur.

Average age of a female CEO.

53

55+

Women over 55 are a force to be reckoned with as they are the fastest growing age and gender workforce category. According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, 3.6 million women over 55 will be added to the U.S. workforce by 2026.

The number of US women business owners between 40 and 59 years old.

68%

$0.60

International Labour Organization states gender wage gaps still exist and are widening. Women are paid less than men for the same work.

The UN estimates that it will take 130 years for women to reach gender equality in the highest positions of power.

130

1,800

The number of women-owned businesses created in the U.S. every single day.

Amplifying Women. Inspiring Change.

The only national award system of its kind—created exclusively to honor the power, purpose, and continued rise of women over 40.

Most awards stop at 40. Ours starts there. We’re looking for women over 40 who lead with purpose, rise through challenge, create meaningful impact, uplift others, and boldly redefine what success looks like—proving that influence doesn’t fade with age, it deepens.

Nominate her for the 40 Over 40 Award

Your nomination gives her the visibility she deserves and helps shift the narrative around age and success. It’s more than recognition—it’s a movement.

National nominations for 2025 are now open. Nominate a woman you admire—or yourself—and help us celebrate the women who are just getting started.

NATIONAL NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR 2025
OUR 2024 WINNERS
“I am profoundly grateful to have received the 40 Over 40 award in 2022. This recognition was a wonderful affirmation of the work we’re doing at the Utah Women’s Leadership Exchange for the Utah System of Higher Education. I appreciate the support and inspiration of the other 40 Over 40 awardees, and I am honored to be part of a community that values and advances women’s leadership.”
Nancy HauckUtah Tech University
"Being recognized by 40 Over 40 was a turning point in my career. The acknowledgment of my achievements and contributions not only boosted my confidence but also opened up new opportunities for professional growth. The support and networking opportunities provided by the organization have been invaluable, empowering me to inspire and mentor other women in my field."
Missy McGloneThe Buckner Company
"40 Over 40 celebrates the incredible accomplishments of women who often go unrecognized. The recognition I received has given me a platform to share my story and advocate for other women. The community and resources offered by 40 Over 40 have been a source of motivation and encouragement, reinforcing the importance of women's contributions at all stages of life."
Sidni Lloyd-Shorter,PsyDUtah Black Chamber
"Receiving the 40 Over 40 award has been an honor and a humbling experience. It validated years of hard work and dedication, and it connected me with a network of extraordinary women who inspire and support each other. The impact of this recognition extends beyond the award itself; it has fueled my passion to continue making a difference and to uplift other women to achieve their full potential."
Marcy AllenAtomic
"I saw a meme the other day that read ”life begins at 40, before that we’re just rehearsing.’ Winning the 40 Over 40 award was a profound honor that affirmed all my years of hard work and intense “rehearsing”. Acknowledging our diverse and rich experiences helps create a more equitable and vibrant Utah.”
Mindy B. YoungHuntsman Mental Health Foundation
"Incredibly grateful and endlessly inspired to have been part of the inaugural class of 40 Over 40. May we continue to uplift, empower, and inspire each other as we pave new paths and redefine greatness at every age."
Nikki WalkerDOMO
"I don't fade with age – I flourish. This 40 over 40 award proves it. As an older woman, I'm not just present; I'm pivotal."
Tara SpaldingWorld Trade Center Utah
"I don't fade with age – I flourish. This 40 over 40 award proves it. As an older woman, I'm not just present; I'm pivotal."
Tara SpaldingWorld Trade Center Utah
“I am deeply grateful to have received the 40 over 40 award. This recognition represents a powerful acknowledgment of the significant contributions made by women. It serves as a strong encouragement for future generations to strive towards shattering any glass ceilings and highlights the importance of ongoing improvement to make a difference in our society.”
RASHA QUDISAT, PHDUtah Valley University
"Winning this award has given me the opportunity to reflect on my accomplishments and set new goals for the future. I hope this achievement serves as an inspiration to the young women in my life, encouraging them to pursue their passions and excel in their fields. This award has boosted my confidence and motivates me to take on even greater challenges. I'm excited to connect with other accomplished individuals and expand my network to collaborate with like-minded professionals."
Tonia DaltonCodale Electric Supply, Inc.
"The recognition through an award from 40 Over 40 is honoring and humbling because it means that in some small way, my work and effort is paying off. That, I truly am making a difference to amplify people and elevate women. Being recognized with the 39 incredibly well deserving women in 2024, I am energized and enriched through our collective impact and power knowing we are trailblazing, paving, and opening access to girls, young female professionals and women who are craving to contribute in their own unique way."
Christine WzorekWhite Label Advisors
“For me, this award is a testament to the significant influence and contributions of women leaders. Being recognized alongside such distinguished and inspiring women is a great honor. Thank you to the ‘40 over 40’ team for celebrating our efforts, which bolsters my continued dedication to driving positive change at UVU and our surrounding community.”
Marilyn (Stiborek) Meyer Utah Valley University
"I feel honored to be included among the incredible women honored as one of the recipients of the 40 over 40 award. When I was first notified, I thought they said, "40 under 40" so I would have been really excited about that! Seriously, I accept this award with deep humility. Utah has extremely talented women who deserve appreciation and recognition. Thank you for including me among this elite group."
Patricia JonesThe Women's Leadership Institute
“As an inaugural cohort awardee, the greatest pleasure that I have received is seeing the awardees in every new cohort. I applaud the awardees for their accomplishments, and with the added emphasis that the nation’s future will be brighter because of their work and leadership.”
Mercedes FitchettDepartment of Defense
"I am so excited for all of this year's winners, but especially my co-host Surae Chinn. I'm so happy she is being publicly recognized for how much she cares about our community. For me, this award was extra special because I feel like after the age of 40 I started hitting my stride, I came into my own. Supporting and celebrating women and their accomplishments at any and every age matters. Women don't have an expiration date, I know I speak for all the winners when I say, we are just getting started. Thank you to 40 Over 40 for providing a platform to cheer on women who publicly and privately are making a difference in our communities every single day."
Nicea DeGering ABC4 Good Things Utah
"Winning the 40 Over 40 award gives me encouragement whenever I doubt myself or my abilities. It reminds me I am part of community of women who lift each other, support and encourage, instead of compete against one another."
Sarah NavarreVanderRose
"I was truly honored to be recognized as a 40 Over 40 Honoree last year. What it has meant to me is that I have been acknowledged for what I bring to the table. The years of experience that I possess and the challenges that I have overcome is a testament to the importance of maturity. Often our society is focused on youth, but the strength and wisdom that comes with years is also very important to recognize and more importantly celebrate and I love that you all are doing that for people that may not receive recognition otherwise."
Connie WashingtonProgressive Leasing
“20 years of research indicated that women in their 40s were at their lowest point of happiness. Despite this, 40 Over 40 has debunked these findings, highlighting exceptional women who are genuine, career-oriented, selfless, caring, and happy. It's an honor to be part of this amazing group!”
Carolyn Hayden- Garner Tesla
“Thank you 40 over 40 for your visionary effort to recognize the value, contributions, and importance of an inclusive workforce and community. When I worked sponsored/passed equal pay legislation and appropriations while in the senate, I spent countless hours personally researching equal pay data, as well as legislation across the nation. While the realities of the research were expected, they were still profoundly disheartening. Thank you for sharing the stories of ALL women, and their ability and vision to contribute – at any age! I am inspired by so many, past and present who have mentored me throughout my life.”
Jani IwamotoHonorary Consul of Japan in Utah, Former Utah State Senator
"Choosing me is a big win for the Public Health workforce, mothers and grandmothers, and other volunteer community workers. I love what you do, thank you for highlighting and drawing attention to the work that women do in our communities and families. You are making a difference."
Page CheckettsUtah Child Care Cooperative
"I am blown away to be nominated alongside such incredible women! And, thanks to each of your for using your platforms to share about what we are doing at Provo Girls Summit."
Tanei HenryProvo Girls Summit
"This award is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the strength and resilience of women who continue to lead in our community and in business. I am inspired by the incredible community of women leaders and I am committed to mentor and empower women to pave the way for future generations. Together, we can make a difference!"
Debra FioriProgressive Leasing
"Winning the 40 Over 40 award has been an incredible honor and a profound acknowledgment of the journey and dedication it takes to make a difference. This recognition not only celebrates my achievements but also highlights the importance of resilience, lifelong learning, and community service. It is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact we can have at any stage of life. I hope my story inspires others to pursue their passions and contribute to their communities with unwavering commitment."
Samira HarnishWomen of the World
"My sense is that when I was chosen to be among the esteemed women for your inaugural event, it affected my staff and the agents in my office, as much as it did me personally. The award gave them an opportunity to see me as more than their leader, but a leader in an industry that up until recently was dominated by men. As one of the few female broker/owners of a real estate company in Utah, that has been around for more than 20 years, it was truly an honor to be recognized as someone who has something to offer. Keep up the good work and keep making us proud!"
Lisa BlakemoreBlakemore Real Estate
"I am beyond honored to be on this list of incredible women in our community, several of whom are friends, colleagues, and supporters. This year's winners, and the winners the last two years, comprise bold, strong, and passionate leaders all making amazing contributions to our state. I am humbled to be included and thrilled to be part of this group and process. Thank you!"
Joelle KanshepolskyPathway Group
"Winning the 2024 40 Over 40 award is such an amazing honor! It’s not just about me, or my work, but about the awesome team and community that support me and YWCA Utah every day. This award is a shoutout to the strength and resilience of women over 40, and I hope it inspires others to chase their dreams and make a difference."
Liz Owens YWCA Utah
"40 Over 40 is arguably the most important group of women in the state!"
Nicole Davis J.P. Morgan
"I have been following the 40 over 40 award for many years. Each year I am amazed by the amazing women that are being recognized and I am inspired by the work they are doing to create a better community for us all. Learning that this year I am being recognized among the 2024 cohort and now included with past honorees that have been an inspiration is truly an honor I am humbled to receive. I am thrilled to be able to use this honor to continue to stress the importance of access and opportunity for all in our community."
Leah LobatoGovernor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities & Business Relations Utah State Office of Rehabilitation (USOR), a Division of the Department of Workforce Services (DWS)
"I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such a diverse group of powerful women. I can't wait to learn from each and every one of them! We are who we surround ourselves with; and what an extraordinary group of peers to be around. I am thankful for 40 over 40 for creating space for women over the age of 40 so we can show the younger generations how incredible their future is and that women are the way of the future, no matter what age!"
Sindee SavageV School
“I am profoundly grateful to have received the 40 Over 40 award in 2022. This recognition was a wonderful affirmation of the work we’re doing at the Utah Women’s Leadership Exchange for the Utah System of Higher Education. I appreciate the support and inspiration of the other 40 Over 40 awardees, and I am honored to be part of a community that values and advances women’s leadership.”
Nancy HauckUtah Tech University
"Being recognized by 40 Over 40 was a turning point in my career. The acknowledgment of my achievements and contributions not only boosted my confidence but also opened up new opportunities for professional growth. The support and networking opportunities provided by the organization have been invaluable, empowering me to inspire and mentor other women in my field."
Missy McGloneThe Buckner Company

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