Inspirational Women of the Valley Honored By Valley News Group

United Chambers of Commerce honored their 2026 Inspirational Women of the Valley today, with a luncheon at The Odyssey restaurant.

The award annually recognizes women of outstanding achievement who have inspired others with their individual stories and accomplishments.

They were chosen not only for their successes, but for how they have inspired others, served as mentors, and through their contributions, made  the San Fernando Valley a better place to live.

The five women are Pat Bates, Josie Casarrubias, Jordyn Grohl, Tessa Graham and Chantel Lopez.

Bates is a former CPA and  environmentalist who has a long relationship with LAFD. She was named  San Fernando Valley Fire Chief of the Year in 2025. She is on the board of the Audubon Society and Chair of the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area Steering Committee.

Casarrubias is Director of Rescue Mission Alliance San Fernando Valley, the first woman to hold that position.

Graham is President and CEO of Child Development Institute and advocates at the local and state level for policies that strengthen services for children.

Grohl is a Los Angeles-based community advocate known for her support of charities addressing homelessness and food insecurity in the San Fernando Valley. Alongside her husband, Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl, she elevates awareness of organizations serving vulnerable populations.

Lopez is Government Affairs Manager for Hope the Mission, and is the liaison between the organization and government entities to address and end homelessness in the valley.

The five honorees were nominated by community members, chambers of commerce and their own organizations. These finalists were chosen by a United Chambers committee composed of previous award winners and community leaders.

United Chambers of Commerce is an association of 14 local chambers in the San Fernando Valley, including Burbank, Calabasas, Filipino American, Granada Hills, North Valley Regional, Northwest Valley, Panorama City, San Fernando City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Studio City, Toluca Lake, West Valley-Warner Center and Winnetka.

The organization advocates for favorable business policies at all levels of government. For more information visit unitedchambers.org.