Wallis Requested Independent Cost Review Before Lawmakers Moved Forward.
Palm Desert, CA – This morning, Assemblymember Greg Wallis (Bermuda Dunes) hosted the 2026 Women of Distinction Reception this morning at Desert Willow Golf Resort, recognizing eleven outstanding women from across the 47th Assembly District and naming Dr. Kelly May-Vollmar as the 2026 Woman of the Year.
“These are women who show up every day for their communities, often without any expectation of recognition,” said Wallis. “Getting to pause and celebrate the impact they’re making for families across the district is something special.”
This year’s Women of Distinction are:
- Carrie Allan (Palm Springs), who served as Lead Chaplain at Desert Regional Medical Center during COVID-19, bringing comfort and compassion to patients and families in their most vulnerable moments.
- Deidre Chatigny (Beaumont), Assistant General Manager and Human Resources Administrator for the Beaumont Cherry Valley Recreation and Park District, known for her steady leadership and the trust she has earned across her organization.
- Dr. Terri Ketover (Palm Springs), founder of the Do the Right Thing program, which has recognized thousands of Coachella Valley students for acts of kindness, leadership, and integrity.
- Davis Meyer (Palm Desert), a tireless advocate for the Coachella Valley’s tourism industry who regularly works in Sacramento to ensure the region remains front and center.
- Anne Montiglio (Redlands), a middle school teacher in Redlands who supports English Language Learners as they build confidence, succeed academically, and find a sense of belonging in a new country.
- Chaya Posner (Rancho Mirage), co-founder of Chabad of Rancho Mirage, who has spent decades building community and quietly supporting individuals and families through life’s most difficult moments.
- Katie Slimko-Tuvell (Rancho Mirage), President and CEO of the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce, and a leading advocate for small businesses across the Coachella Valley.
- Kate Spates (Palm Desert), a business leader and community builder who has spent decades creating opportunities and giving back to the Coachella Valley.
- Lisa Valerio (Palm Desert), founder of the Fenixia Foundation, which creates inclusive, celebratory experiences for individuals with special needs and their families.
- Nona Watson (Palm Springs), who has led the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce for fifteen years and helped shape community events and economic vitality across the city.
- Doria Wilms (Desert Hot Springs), City Manager of Desert Hot Springs, who rose through the ranks to lead her hometown while securing major investments and strengthening public safety.
Each honoree was presented with a Certificate of Recognition in front of community leaders, family members, and local officials who came out to celebrate their work.
The reception concluded with the announcement of Dr. Kelly May-Vollmar (La Quinta), Superintendent of Desert Sands Unified School District, as the 2026 Woman of the Year.
“Dr. May-Vollmar’s leadership has made a real difference for students and families across the Coachella Valley,” said Wallis. “Her commitment to public education and the results she’s delivered speak for themselves. She represents exactly what this recognition is all about.”