KEIZER, Ore. — Salem real estate professional and community leader Jordan Hill received the inaugural Oregon Woman of the Year Award on Saturday, Nov. 7, during the first Oregon Women of Impact Awards Gala at the Keizer Event Center.
Organized by Oregon Conferences for Women, the event recognized five women across four award categories for their contributions to business, education, advocacy and community service. The evening also raised $5,000 for a mentoring program supporting female students in Woodburn.
Jordan, who leads Hilltop Property Group, was recognized for her work connecting local businesses, mentoring emerging leaders and organizing events that bring people together. Her community initiatives include Salem Fashion Week, Adult Prom and the Dirt to Sky business podcast, which she hosts for Salem Business Journal. Jordan also serves on the publication's editorial board.
“I'm passionate about building community, connecting others and creating events that bring joy and collaboration here in the Willamette Valley. This was a true blessing and an encouragement for me!” Jordan said.
The Business Leadership Award went to Liliana “Lily” Perez, co-owner of El Torito Markets. According to organizers, the family-owned business has grown to 12 Oregon locations employing more than 200 people. Perez was recognized for her entrepreneurship, dedication to employees and support for Latino families and communities.
Two women received Community Impact Awards.
Tristin Thoma was honored for her advocacy for children and families with disabilities. She helped establish Polk County 4-H's first all-abilities club, expanding opportunities for children with different abilities to participate in youth activities.
Valeria Atanacio, an elected member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Tribal Council, received recognition for her work in education, Indigenous advocacy and supporting Native families. Her career has focused on culturally responsive education and expanding opportunities for future generations.
The Rising Star Award went to Selia Ramon, a bilingual clinical social worker and director of operations at OYEN Emotional Wellness Center. A Woodburn native, Ramon was recognized for her efforts to improve access to mental health services, assist underserved families and support young people in her community.
Yirla Rubí González Nolan, co-founder of Oregon Conferences for Women, said the awards were created to recognize women whose contributions extend beyond professional accomplishments.
“These five women represent different industries, backgrounds, and journeys, but they share something powerful: they use their success, experiences, and talents to make life better for others,” González Nolan said.
The gala also supported the next generation of women leaders. Oregon Conferences for Women presented a $2,000 contribution to Woodburn School District's Horizon Mentoring Program. Solid Roofing NW matched that amount, and additional community donations brought the total raised to $5,000.
The program connects female students with mentors who provide guidance, encouragement and opportunities for personal and professional development, according to organizers.
“We wanted to do more than celebrate the women making a difference today. We wanted to invest in the young women who will become tomorrow's leaders,” González Nolan said.
Organizers hope to make the Women of Impact Awards an annual celebration recognizing leadership and service throughout Oregon.