Norma Dunn Honored with 2026 Marsha Bailey Leadership Award at AWBC Leadership Conference

The Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC) honored Norma Dunn of MCSC Women’s Business Center Kern with the 2026 Marsha Bailey Leadership Award during the 2026 AWBC Leadership Conference in Denver.

Named in honor of Marsha Bailey, a longtime leader and champion of women entrepreneurs, the Marsha Bailey Leadership Award recognizes a Women’s Business Center staff member who exemplifies five qualities: servant leadership, integrity, commitment and passion, empowerment of others, and collaboration.

Dunn was recognized for her transformative leadership and lasting impact on the MCSC Women’s Business Center Kern and the broader entrepreneurial community throughout Kern County.

Through her natural ability to build relationships and bring people together, Dunn has strengthened partnerships with local governments, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and business leaders. Her collaborative approach has helped expand the WBC’s reach into rural and underserved communities and strengthen its role as a trusted resource for entrepreneurs throughout the region.

Dunn is also deeply committed to empowering others. She mentors staff, consultants, and clients, helping them build confidence, develop strategic thinking, and create meaningful relationships that support their own success. Her leadership has fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to creating meaningful outcomes for small business owners.

As her nominator shared, “Norma truly embodies the spirit of community. Her solution-oriented approach, commitment to others, and ability to bring people together have created a lasting impact on entrepreneurs, the WBC, and the broader community.”

Dunn’s recognition reflects the heart of the Marsha Bailey Leadership Award: leadership that extends beyond an individual organization to strengthen the communities and entrepreneurs a Women’s Business Center serves.

AWBC presented the award as part of the 2026 AWBC Leadership Conference, held September 15–17 in Denver, Colorado, bringing together Women’s Business Center leaders and staff from across the country to connect, learn, and advance the work of supporting women entrepreneurs.

About the Association of Women’s Business Centers

The Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC) is a national nonprofit that strengthens and advocates for Women’s Business Centers while expanding direct support for entrepreneurs through strategic partnerships, capital access initiatives, and national programming. By connecting policy, partnerships, and local impact, AWBC drives sustainable growth for businesses nationwide.