Community

Hollinger honored as a Woman of Impact

At the ceremony, from left, Charlotte Meckel, Sandy Hollinger, Stephanie Bryan, Justin Stabler

Special to Atmore News

Poarch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Council Member Sandy Hollinger was honored as a 2024 Woman of Impact, a distinction that recognizes the women in Alabama whose contributions have earned the authority and power to move the needle in their industry. The goal of the award is “to illuminate the personal and professional advancements of 20 women across business, government, and non-profit sectors each year.”
Yellowhammer News, a business and political news outlet for the state, recognized Hollinger for her outstanding contributions to not only the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, but the communities surrounding the reservation and for her unwavering commitment to the well-being of Tribal Members.
Hollinger’s journey of service began long before her election to the Tribal Council in 2011. She is a passionate advocate for assisting families in crisis situations, supporting Tribal Members in their educational pursuits, and participating in community outreach projects through her church.
Hollinger has also served on key legislative issues through the Tribe’s Cultural Authority, Education and Labor committee, and the Housing and Community Activities division. She is also involved in the Poarch Creek Indians Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance (TERO) Commission, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Legislative Affairs Committee.
In addition to public service, she is a devoted wife and mother. Her faith and family-centered approach serve as a guiding light in her daily work. Hollinger recently attended the formal awards ceremony on January 25th in Birmingham. She was accompanied by Tribal Council members Charlotte Meckel and Justin Stabler and Tribal Chair & CEO Stephanie A. Bryan.
“We are so proud that Sandy is the recipient of Yellowhammer News Women of Impact Award,” Bryan said. “Sandy is an amazing leader who uses her time, talents, and faith at every opportunity to make a true impact on the Tribe and the surrounding community. We are so grateful for her commitment and dedication and we are better for it.”