Educate. Validate. Commemorate.
Women have served our nation across generations, caring for the wounded, supporting critical missions, and leading military operations. Their service has strengthened our armed forces and expanded the paths available to those who followed. Understanding this history allows us to honor their contributions with greater awareness and gratitude.
MORE SPECIAL GUESTS & SURPRIZES TO COME
MEET OUR MISTRESS OF CEREMONY
U.S. Army Veteran | Entrepreneur | Educator | Women’s Empowerment Advocate | Mrs. Maryland 2027
Charlene Inez Arnold, widely known as “The CDL Queen,” is a U.S. Army National Guard veteran, entrepreneur, educator, and advocate for women’s empowerment and economic independence.
She is the Founder and CEO of IBEST Trucking Academy and Founder of the DriveHER Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering women, veterans, and underserved communities through workforce development, education, and entrepreneurship.
A dedicated leader in the transportation industry, Charlene has built her career around breaking barriers, expanding opportunities, and helping individuals transform their lives through education and professional development.
Currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration, Charlene is also a proud mother of five and holds the title of Mrs. Maryland 2027, using her platform to advocate for women, veterans, and the power of reinvention.
Through her leadership, service, and commitment to empowering others, Charlene continues to demonstrate that purpose has no expiration date, and it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
DO YOU KNOW OUR HISTORY?
JOIN OUR BATTLE OF THE BRANCHES!
DO YOU KNOW OUR HISTORY? JOIN OUR BATTLE OF THE BRANCHES!
Their impact continues beyond the uniform. As entrepreneurs, employers, professionals, and community leaders, women veterans create jobs, deliver solutions, and strengthen local economies. Validating their impact means recognizing the expertise, discipline, and servant leadership they bring to their workplaces, families, and communities.
MEET OUR PANELISTS
Sharon Douglas is an accomplished entrepreneur, business executive, and former United States Army Captain whose career reflects a strong commitment to leadership, excellence, and perseverance.
With more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience, Sharon has transformed a small startup into Potere Construction LLC, a commercial and heavy highway concrete contractor committed to quality, safety, and creating opportunities within the construction industry.
Sharon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Huston-Tillotson College and pursued Military Science studies at The University of Texas at Austin. She also pursued graduate studies in Human Resources Education Technology and technical studies in Architectural Technology.
As Founder, President, and CEO of Potere Construction, Sharon remains dedicated to workforce development, building lasting industry relationships, and creating a meaningful legacy for future generations.
“A future is never built standing still.”
Debra Moore is a U.S. Army veteran and the Founder and CEO of Mama Moore’s Gourmet Popcorn, a woman- and veteran-owned business in North Texas. After serving more than 10 years in the Army, she brought her leadership skills and determination to entrepreneurship. What began at local fairs and festivals in 2012 has grown into two retail locations, fundraising programs, wholesale partnerships, and nationwide shipping. Debra is a proud Bennett College graduate, wife, and mother of three.
Elle Obiakor is a Master Stylist, mentor, U.S. Navy veteran, and owner of Etta Mai Beauty Salon since 2024. With more than 20 years of hairstyling experience and cosmetology training through the Aveda Institute, Elle brings creativity, versatility, and a commitment to exceptional service to every client relationship.
Her career has taken her across the United States, including the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, and internationally to Japan and Australia, where she worked in hair and makeup artistry. These experiences have shaped her appreciation for diverse cultures, textures, and expressions of beauty.
Elle’s approach extends beyond hairstyling. Her studies in life coaching, combined with her life experiences, inform her commitment to caring for the whole woman—helping clients feel seen, valued, and confident. Known for her vibrant personality and ability to connect with people, she creates a welcoming environment where beauty, wellness, and personal growth come together.
As a salon owner, Elle currently mentors both emerging and seasoned beauty professionals, sharing her knowledge and encouraging continued growth, professionalism, and excellence in client care. She is passionate about building a salon culture rooted in service, creativity, and meaningful relationships.
Before her career in beauty, Elle proudly served in the U.S. Navy, receiving professional training in meteorology and oceanography. Her military background continues to influence her leadership, adaptability, and dedication to serving others.
Grounded in faith and driven by purpose, Elle seeks to uplift women through her craft, leadership, and community connections. Outside the salon, she enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and extended family.
Honoring Their Service. Preserving Their Stories.
Featuring Former Texas State Representative Victoria Neave
Women have served our nation since its founding, often without equal recognition, opportunity, or access to the benefits they earned. Commemoration preserves their stories and ensures their contributions remain part of our shared history. Establishing recognition in law creates a lasting public commitment to remember.
June 12 commemorates the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948, which established women as permanent members of the regular armed forces.
Victoria Neave will share her work establishing June 12 as Women Veterans Day in Texas and why honoring this history still matters today.
In 2017, Neave authored House Bill 2698 to establish the observance. Its language was incorporated into Senate Bill 805, signed into law on June 9, 2017.
For VWEC, this history holds special meaning. The Texas law was signed just three days before our June 12, 2017, groundbreaking, connecting two milestones in our commitment to honoring and empowering women veterans.
Today, Texas joins at least 24 other states that have recognized June 12 through legislation, resolutions, or proclamations.
Neave’s work continues to have an impact each year as Texans honor women’s military service, sacrifice, and valor.
Neave is the founder and Managing Attorney of Neave Law PLLC, a bilingual family law firm serving Dallas–Fort Worth. She represented Texas House District 107 for four terms from 2017 to 2025 and chaired the House Committees on Juvenile Justice and Family Issues and County Affairs.
From the Courtroom and the Capitol
Born and raised in Dallas, Victoria has dedicated her career to advocating for families — first as a legislator who helped write the laws, and now as the attorney who uses them to protect her clients.
Attorney Neave began her legal career in the Complex Commercial Litigation group at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, where she represented multinational corporations in multi-million and multi-billion dollar disputes in state and federal courts across the country. That foundation in high-stakes litigation informs every family law matter she handles today.
She is a Member of the Texas Bar College — a distinction held by fewer than 4% of licensed Texas attorneys — reflecting her commitment to continuing legal education well beyond what is required.
This salute honors their service and the grit and resilience required to overcome the challenges of being a woman in the military. Rooted in gratitude, this gathering creates space to listen, reflect, and celebrate women whose commitment to serving others continues to shape our communities. Whether you own a business, pursue a career, care for your family, volunteer, or are exploring your next chapter, this gathering is for you.
Join us to hear the story behind this lasting recognition and celebrate the women it honors.
Your service matters, and your story belongs here.
You belong here!
