The Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 NWA Woman of the Year and the 2025 NWA Woman of Purpose Awards, two honors celebrating exceptional women whose leadership, service, and commitment elevate Northwest Arkansas.

2025 NWA Woman of The Year: Robin Mizell
Senior Manager of Public Affairs, Black Hills Energy

The NWA Woman of the Year Award recognizes an individual who exemplifies outstanding leadership, serves as a catalyst for positive change, and uplifts women throughout the region. This year’s recipient, Robin Mizell, is known not only for her professional expertise but for the deep care, humility, and authenticity she brings to every corner of her work.

Robin plays an essential role at Black Hills Energy as Senior Public Affairs Manager, drawing on experience in state government, communications, and stakeholder engagement. Yet it is the way she invests in people that truly defines her impact. She pours into the community through hands-on involvement with organizations including United Way of Northwest Arkansas, through her active service in PRSA, and as a graduate of Leadership Arkansas.

“Robin embodies the spirit of community leadership,” said Brandom Gengelbach, President & CEO of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce. “Her knowledge of Northwest Arkansas runs deep, and she carries that understanding into every conversation, partnership, and initiative she touches. Robin is soft-spoken at times, but the impact she makes is anything but. Her actions speak loudly through the people she lifts up, the organizations she strengthens, and the thoughtful way she serves this region. She never seeks recognition, but our community is better because of her. We are honored to recognize her”

2025 NWA Woman of Purpose: Martine Pollard
Vice President, Northwest Arkansas, Arkansas Blue Cross & Blue Shield

The NWA Woman of Purpose Award honors a woman whose service, mission-driven leadership, and unwavering commitment to bettering Northwest Arkansas create lasting impact. This year’s honoree, Martine Pollard, is a strategic communicator, community leader, and champion for the region’s long-term success.

With more than 20 years of experience in strategic communications, advocacy, operations, and relationship-building, Martine is recognized for her ability to unite people and drive initiatives that improve quality of life across the region. She currently serves as Vice President of Northwest Arkansas for Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Her leadership extends deeply into the community as a member and former chair of the Bentonville Area Chamber Board, a member of the Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) Board, and many other volunteer endeavors across the region. Shaped by global experiences, born in a U.S. military hospital overseas, raised in Europe and Great Britain, and later in Arkansas, Martine blends a unique perspective with a profound love for Bentonville, NWA, and the state of Arkansas. She is a dedicated mother and wife and an enthusiastic supporter of Bentonville Tiger football.

“Martine is the definition purpose-driven leadership,” said Brandom Gengelbach, President & CEO of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce. “She approaches every challenge with strategy, heart, and a deep passion for Northwest Arkansas. Beyond her professional excellence, Martine has been a steadfast advocate for the Chamber and our entire region. She is someone who consistently shows up, speaks up, and lifts up those around her. Her support, her insight, and her love for this community make her truly exceptional. We are thrilled to honor her in this way.”

About the Award Selection Process:

• The NWA Woman of the Year Award is a community-nominated honor. Final selections are made by the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Business Women’s Committee, a group of local female leaders representing a diverse range of industries. Considerations for this award include the nominee’s professional experience, community impact, and the overall balance and legacy of past recipients, ensuring the award reflects the breadth of leadership across Northwest Arkansas.
• Established in 2024, with Blake Woolsey serving as the inaugural honoree, the NWA Woman of Purpose Awardis selected from nominations submitted by members of the Bentonville Area Chamber Business Women’s Committee and the Bentonville Area Chamber Board of Directors. Final selection is based on clear alignment with purpose-driven leadership, a demonstrated commitment to service, and contributions that meaningfully advance the region.