Throughout Alpha Xi Delta’s history, our Sisters have made remarkable contributions to their professions, communities and the world around them. From leading organizations and advancing their industries to creating meaningful change through service, Alpha Xi Delta women continue to demonstrate what it means to lead with purpose.
Each year, Alpha Xi Delta celebrates these accomplishments through the Woman of Distinction Award, the Fraternity’s highest honor.
The Woman of Distinction Award recognizes Alpha Xi Delta alumnae who have demonstrated excellence and extraordinary leadership in their careers or through service to their communities. Recipients are women who have earned widespread recognition in their fields and whose accomplishments reflect a lasting commitment to making a difference.
Past recipients of this prestigious award represent the incredible range of talents, passions and achievements found within our Sisterhood. Their contributions serve as a reminder that leadership takes many forms and that the impact of an Alpha Xi Delta Sister can extend far beyond her collegiate years.
Over the years, Alpha Xi Delta has recognized women whose accomplishments have inspired others, strengthened communities and made an impact in their respective fields. Their stories are a reminder of the incredible things our Sisters are capable of achieving.
Micaela Isler, The University of Texas at Austin (2025)
A nationally recognized leader in government relations and advocacy, Micaela serves as President and CEO of the National Association of Business Political Action Committees. Recognized as a top lobbyist by The Hill, she has also made a lasting impact on Alpha Xi Delta through her service as National President from 2017 to 2021.
Maxine Burton, University of Georgia (2023)
An entrepreneur and philanthropist, Maxine founded burton + BURTON, the world’s largest distributor of balloons and coordinating gift products. Beyond her success in business, she is a dedicated supporter of education, agriculture and youth development, including Georgia 4-H.
Sarah Lerner, Florida Atlantic University (2019)
An educator at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Sarah demonstrated extraordinary courage during the tragic 2018 school shooting, protecting 15 students in her classroom. She later edited and published Parkland Speaks, a collection of student writings that gave young survivors a platform to share their experiences.
Think about the extraordinary women in your Alpha Xi Delta network. Is there a Sister who has become a respected leader in her profession? Someone whose dedication to her community has created lasting change? A woman whose achievements deserve to be celebrated on a national stage?
We encourage you to nominate her!
Any Alpha Xi Delta alumna in good standing is eligible for consideration. Nominations may be submitted by individual members, college chapters, alumnae associations, advisory boards and housing corporations. Recipients will be recognized at Alpha Xi Delta’s National Convention, where Sisters from across the country will come together to celebrate their achievements.
Help us recognize the exceptional women who make our Sisterhood proud. Nominations for the Woman of Distinction Award are due December 1, 2026.
To submit a nomination, log in to Alpha Xi Delta’s Member Portal and locate the Woman of Distinction nomination form under Member Forms.
For questions about the award or nomination process, please contact Elysia Gallivan at egallivan@alphaxidelta.org or 317.872.3500 ext. 151.
Extraordinary women deserve extraordinary recognition. Help us celebrate the Sisters who inspire us by nominating a Woman of Distinction today!