Program seeks to open boardroom doors for women leaders

Advocacy group 50/50 Women on Boards has announced its 2026 50 Women to Watch for Boards honorees. The recognition honors 50 “exceptionally qualified women leaders” throughout North America who are prepared to serve on corporate boards. The annual initiative aims to expand the pipeline of qualified women for board leadership, and the honorees will receive increased visibility among board recruiters and corporate leaders. “Identifying exceptional director candidates has never been more important,” 50/50 Women on Boards CEO Heather Spilsbury says, adding that the program is “designed to provide access to a credible talent pool for future board opportunities.” Women hold approximately 30% of all board seats.