
Record-breaking campaign culminates in announcement of 100 Successful Women to Know and new small-business grant program
The wait is over to learn who was chosen for Gulf Coast Woman magazine’s 100 Successful Women to Know Class of 2023.
GCW received a record-breaking 1,200-plus nominations for this highly sought-after honor. A sellout audience of more than 300 people filled the top floor of Gulfport’s Great Southern Club for a special luncheon today, where this year’s winners were announced.
Now in its sixth year, GCW’s 100 Successful Women to Know campaign celebrates influential and impactful South Mississippi female leaders who represent areas ranging from nonprofits and the arts to education and entrepreneurship.
“We do this for three reasons: One, many of the women recognized are quietly working in the background and deserve the spotlight,” says Gulf Coast Woman CEO and Publisher Dorothy P. Wilson. “Two, many of these women have overcome great adversity to achieve success and they are an inspiration to others who are struggling. Three, as a women's magazine, our mission is to connect, celebrate and empower women. This is at the heart of what we do.”
At today’s celebration, nominees in attendance and other guests were treated to lunch, entertainment, giveaways, a 360-degree photo booth, inspirational remarks from LuAnn Pappas, CEO of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, and more.
The highlight was the recognition of this year’s winners. Gulf Coast Woman Magazine’s Success Showcase issue, featuring the 2023 Class of 100 Successful Women to Know, will officially be released July 1. It will be available to read online at gcwmultimedia.com.
Wednesday’s event also marked the launch of the PowHER of 100 Fund, a collaboration between GCW and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce. This program, funded by the recipients of the 100 Successful Women to Know award and other women in business, will provide four $2,500 grants to female entrepreneurs this year.
Grant application information will be announced soon.
About 100 Successful Women to Know
Many talented, accomplished women on the Mississippi Gulf Coast don’t seek recognition for themselves, but Gulf Coast Woman magazine ensures they shine brightly with the "100 Successful Women to Know" campaign. This annual initiative celebrates influential and impactful South Mississippi female leaders, who represent areas ranging from nonprofits and the arts to education and entrepreneurship. Extra consideration is given to nominees who are deserving, but may not have received top honors.

"Our mission is to connect, celebrate and empower women."
Frequently Asked Questions
Winners are selected based on achievements and community involvement. Extra consideration is given to nominees who are deserving, but may not have received top honors. Winners are chosen from a variety of backgrounds, from entrepreneur to nonprofit to career to retiree.
A committee selected by the Publisher.
Yes.
No. If you have been nominated more than once, there is no need to fill out additional applications. You only need to fill out ONE application to be considered.
At the 100 Successful Women to Know Luncheon on May 31, 2023. All nominees are invited to the celebration, but a limited number of seats are available.
Nominations must be submitted by May 16, 2023 at 11:59 p.m.
Nominees info must be submitted by May 18, 2023 by 5:00 p.m.
Luncheon RSVPs must be received by May 19, 2023.
Business casual. Attendees wishing to be photographed for the Success Showcase should come dressed camera ready. Winner will also be photographed for the feature in Gulf Coast Woman magazine.
Great Southern Club on the 15th floor of the Hancock Whitney building at 2510 14th St. Gulfport, MS 39501.
Yes.
No. Your attendance at the luncheon does not impede your chances to be selected.