Denton, Texas -- The Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership at Texas Woman's University has selected Bobbie Mitchell, Denton County Commissioner for Precinct 3, as the recipient of its 2026 Distinguished Public Service Award, recognizing more than three decades of exceptional service and leadership in government.
The award will be presented at the "Leading the Lone Star State: Texas Women in Public Service Summit" on Sept. 25, at the Denton Convention Center. For more information about the award and the upcoming summit, or to register, visit twu.edu/leading-the-lone-star-state/
"This award shines a light on the remarkable impact women like Commissioner Mitchell have in shaping our government and society," said Shannon Mantaro, the institute’s executive director and chief officer. "She embodies the pioneering spirit that drives positive change in our communities and in the halls of Texas government."
Mitchell's contributions span more than 30 years in local and regional government. Before her election to the Commissioners Court in 2000, she served as mayor of Lewisville and on the Lewisville City Council, building a foundation of public service that has since expanded to
include leadership roles with the North Central Texas Council of Governments and the Conference of Urban Counties. Her work has been instrumental in advancing regional cooperation on transportation, emergency preparedness and public safety.
In her current role as Denton County Commissioner, Mitchell continues to demonstrate her commitment to public service through regional leadership positions and ongoing advocacy for the communities she serves, further strengthening Texas' governance at the local and regional level.
"We are profoundly moved by Commissioner Mitchell’s dedication to public service and her shared vision for elevating women in leadership roles," Mantaro said. "This award not only recognizes her past achievements but also inspires future generations of women to make their
mark in public service."
The summit is a one-day conference uniting women in the fields of public administration, elected office, and government through informative sessions, engaging keynotes and networking opportunities. The summit supports and inspires greater engagement in public
service careers, elected office, appointed positions, and advocacy and public policy roles.
This year's summit will feature keynote speaker Karen Hughes, a communications strategist and former counselor to President George W. Bush, along with additional sessions and speakers focused on public administration, elected office and government service.
The Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University is dedicated to preparing women for successful careers in business and public service. Its three specialized centers—Center for Women Entrepreneurs, Center for Women in Government and Center for Leadership Research and Workforce Development—ensure women have the education to
establish careers as successful executives, the skills for building entrepreneurial businesses and the framework needed to excel in public service.
