The Carson City Chamber of Commerce honored 10 Women of Distinction on Tuesday at the Casino Fandango. Honorees, from left, were Melanie Bruketta, Ellen Jackson, Candi Robles, Lou Skaggs, Molly Walt, Stacy Woodbury, Colleen Chapman, Brooke Sweeting, Brenda Sandquist and Lupe Ramirez.
Photo by Jessica Garcia.
Keynote speaker Carson City District Court Judge Kristin Luis encouraged women to refrain from being their own worst critics during an event honoring exceptional leaders Tuesday at the Casino Fandango.
As the first woman to hold the city’s Department 2 Justice/Municipal judgeship, Luis said it’s difficult to keep faith when the community might not be encouraging when females follow their dreams.
“We feel guilty when we can’t do it all,” Luis said. “I want be able to encourage other women to believe in themselves, to have grace for yourself when you do make mistakes and when you can’t accomplish it all.”
The Carson City Chamber of Commerce added 10 women to its list of Women of Distinction, a celebration held during Women’s History Month to recognize outstanding professionals or volunteers. They joined 33 who had been selected for recognition since 2020.
The event was cosponsored by Campagni Auto Group with masters of ceremony Carson City Toyota Director Cliff Sorensen and Western Nevada College President Kyle Dalpe presenting certificates and remarks.
Sorensen called the women advocates and models in their work and service.
“These remarkable women come from diverse industries, but they share a common thread, encouraged to challenge the status quo, the determination to lead with integrity and the ability to inspire those who will follow in their footsteps,” Sorensen said. “These are CEOs, software innovators, changemakers and women who have redefined success not just for themselves, but for all of us.”
Several of the 10 told the Appeal they often were motivated by family or other mentors who made a positive difference on their community.
Justice of the Peace Melanie Bruketta, who has served as a prosecutor and civil deputy district attorney in the Carson City District Attorney’s Office, hoped young women would remember their potential, mentor others and give back to the community.
“This distinction is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of so many women in this community who have been a mentor to me, who have inspired me, who have stood by me throughout the years and who have helped me to succeed in both my career and raising my children,” Bruketta said. “These same women have made an impact and difference in Carson City and have made it a place where everyone can achieve their goals.”
Honoree Lupe Ramirez, Carson City School Board president, told the Appeal she was proud of having graduated with a bachelor’s degree and securing a job while holding to family priorities. Ramirez is a member of local boards, including the Western Nevada College Foundation. At WNC, she backed the development of a student success program to help Latino students who are the first in their families to go to college.
“I recognize it takes a village to provide all students a strong educational foundation so they can feel confident to advocate for themselves after they graduate from high school, and I am pleased to be part of that village,” Ramirez said.
Ellen Jackson, executive director of local nonprofit Spirit of Hope, said she was honored to be notified of her selection from the Chamber. Spirit of Hope works with the city’s courts and mental health organizations with assistance from Health and Human Services to offer housing to low-income persons.
“When I saw the other amazing women that I am honored with, I was super thankful,” Jackson said. “A lot of these ladies, I already know and love and appreciate all that they contribute to our community as well. It truly is such a blessing to be noticed as I know that none of us are looking for accolades or pats on the back for what we do, but how nice when it happens.”
Molly Walt, executive director of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and a Carson City School Board trustee, said she was proudest of her four children and their willingness to serve by example, even if being “voluntold,” with pride and purpose. But Walt said her mother’s guidance helped her become a model for them.
“My mother's strength, resilience and dedication to her family and community left a lasting impact on me, shaping the way I lead and serve,” Walt said. “The mentors I've had throughout my career have reinforced those values, teaching me the importance of hard work, integrity and giving back.”
Candi Robles, Career and Technical Education and Work-Based Learning coordinator at Carson High School, was honored in 2024 as Administrator of the Year by the Nevada Association of Career and Technical Education and has promoted educational opportunities and pathways for students.
“To be included among such an inspiring group of women who are making a meaningful impact in our community is both humbling and uplifting,” Robles said. “This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the collective dedication, strength and passion that drives positive change in Carson City.”
Brenda Sandquist, founder and executive director of local nonprofit Xquisite to help survivors of sex trafficking, intimate terrorism and domestic violence, said she has been proud of leading a movement that has empowered survivors who have experienced harrowing situations and can speak for themselves. Xquisite has helped to establish resources such as the Diamond Strong Freedom Center for the exploited, she said. In 2024, the nonprofit has assisted 103 unduplicated clients, referred to as “Diamonds.” A total of 421 clients have been accessing resources through the Diamond Strong Freedom Center.
The event also honored Colleen Chapman, executive director for resource development of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Nevada; Lou Skaggs, volunteer for the Lions Club of Carson City; Brook Sweeting, senior relationship manager of United Federal Credit Union; and Stacy Woodbury, manager of public affairs of Southwest Gas.