Arkansas Woman Veteran of the Year Award

Launching in 2025, the ADVA Women Veteran of the Year Award recognizes one women veteran annually in Arkansas who have commendable service as military service members, veterans, and outstanding members of their communities.

Veterans, family members, friends, veterans service organizations, County and Tribal Veteran Service Officers, other veterans’ groups, and community members are encouraged to submit nominations to be considered in this year's process.

Arkansas Honors Its First Women Veteran of the Year, Master Sergeant (Ret.) Elesha D. Granniss. Master Sergeant (Ret.) Elesha D. Granniss made history this year when the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs named her the state’s first Women Veteran of the Year, an honor awarded at the 2025 Women Veteran Summit. Selected by a board of ADVA Women Veteran Program Leaders, Granniss was chosen for her outstanding professional and personal achievements, exceptional community engagement, leadership, and lasting impact on women veterans across Arkansas.

A board comprised of the ADVA Women Veteran Program Leaders will choose the Woman Veteran of the Year based on professional and personal achievements, community engagement, leadership skills, recognition, and lasting impact on their communities.

2026 Nominations are open until May 1, 2026. For the details regarding nomination guidelines and criteria, please CLICK HERE. Questions about the nomination process and all submissions should be directed to Hollie.Scoma@arkansas.gov (until Women Veteran email).