March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women who have shaped our communities, industries, and the world at large. In celebration of this special occasion, Miami Beach recently hosted the 2025 Exemplary Women Awards & Exhibition opening, an inspiring event recognizing outstanding women leaders across various fields. Presented by the Miami Beach Commission for Women and the Miami Design Preservation League, the event featured a VIP Meet and Greet Reception and a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the accompanying exhibition, which remains open throughout March, spotlighting the honorees and their incredible accomplishments.
A Successful Tribute to Trailblazing Women
The 2025 Exemplary Women Awards & Exhibition took place on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, featuring two signature events:
- VIP Meet and Greet Reception at the Art Deco Museum on Ocean Drive brought together honorees, local leaders, and MDPL members at the Patron level and above for an intimate celebration of women’s achievements
- Exhibition Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Lummus Park officially unveiled the Exemplary Women Exhibition, a visual showcase highlighting the honorees’ careers, achievements, and contributions to society. The ceremony was well-attended by community members eager to celebrate these remarkable women.
Meet the 2025 Honorees
This year’s distinguished honorees include women from diverse industries who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and a commitment to making a difference:
- Fire Chief Digna Abello – Leader in fire safety and emergency response.
- Philanthropist Toby Lerner Ansin – Champion of the arts and community development.
- Dermatologist Leslie Baumann – Renowned expert in skincare and health.
- Chef Michelle Bernstein – Award-winning culinary innovator.
- Author Judy Blume – Literary icon and advocate for free expression.
- Community Activist Deborah Plutzik-Briggs – Dedicated to social impact and change.
- Journalist Belkys Nerey – Influential voice in media and storytelling.
- Environmentalist Sophie Ringel – Advocate for sustainability and conservation.
- Sprinter Twanisha “TeeTee” Terry – Trailblazer in athletics and sports.
- DJ Tracy Young – Award-winning music producer and advocate for inclusivity.
A Word from the Event Organizers
Dr. Lynette Long, Chair of the Miami Beach Commission for Women, expressed her enthusiasm about the event, stating: “The Exemplary Women Awards & Exhibition is a tribute to the remarkable women who have paved the way for future generations. Their achievements inspire us to break barriers and create a more equitable world. We are thrilled by the community’s response and encourage everyone to visit the exhibition throughout March.”
Exhibition Available All Month
While the awards ceremony has passed, the exhibition celebrating these exemplary women remains open to the public throughout March. Located at Lummus Park (between 8th & 9th Streets), this free exhibition offers a chance to learn about and be inspired by the achievements of these remarkable women leaders, all with the backdrop of iconic Ocean Drive in the heart of the Art Deco district.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day today, March 8, visiting this exhibition provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on women’s vital contributions to our society and to honor those who continue to break barriers in their respective fields.
Let’s continue to celebrate women’s achievements and inspire future generations!
Support provided by Miami Design Preservation League, the City of Miami Beach Mayor and Commissioners, Miami-Dade County Commissioners Eileen Higgins and Micky Steinberg as well as Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
