The ExtraOrdinary Women Project (EOW) recognizes the quiet efforts, tenacity, and perseverance of those who identify as women in McLean County by sharing their stories in the spirit of celebration and with the aim of inspiring others. They are the unsung heroes in their circles of families, friends, and colleagues. They are our everyday heroes. They are ExtraOrdinary.

Selection Process: The EOW celebrates lives lived with strength and persistence by the ExtraOrdinary, everyday heroes who identify as women. The EOW will select women from the nominees and highlight their stories on the EOW website and on social media. Stories shared will be a collaborative process between the nominees and the members of EOW. The purpose is to inspire others through the stories of these “ordinary” women. While considering nominees the EOW board considers the following criteria in relation to the nominees story:
• Challenges faced
• Response to these challenges (i.e., tenacity, perseverance, etc)
• Impact on others
• Personal growth

Nomination Criteria:
• Nominees must reside in McLean County, identify as women, and be over the age of 18 at the time of the nomination.
• Nominees must exhibit resilience and sustained strength along their life journey in the face of challenges.
• Nominees generally inspire others around them without public recognition or outward leadership roles.