The Birmingham Business Journal (BBJ) recently announced its 2020 list of Women to Watch, a distinction given to a select group of females each year who are making an impact in the Birmingham business world. Honorees range from up-and-coming executives to established business leaders who are involved in building a business, a philanthropic initiative, a major nonprofit or a community-focused endeavor.

Tequila Smith, Alabama Power vice president of Charitable Giving, president of the Alabama Power Foundation and executive director of the Alabama Business Charitable Trust, joined the group of 31 honorees who were recognized at the 2020 Women’s Summit during a virtual event.

“I am grateful to receive this honor and to be included in the company of these accomplished women,” Smith said. “This group is indicative of the collective impact women have in growing Alabama businesses and making our communities great places to live and work. I look forward to continuing to work alongside them as we create meaningful change in our respective industries and communities.”

Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1999 and a Master of Business Administration in 2003, both from UAB. In 2019, she earned a Master of Arts in Communication Studies: Organizational Leadership from the University of Alabama.

She has been active in the civic, philanthropic and leadership development arenas, bringing her knowledge, experience and expertise to bear on improving life in her community. In 2018, Smith completed the Southern Power Leading Leaders program. She is a member of the UAB School of Engineering Advisory Board and a 2020 alumna of the Momentum Executive Women Leadership Program – Alabama’s premiere female leadership organization. She is a Torchbearer for the Junior League of Birmingham’s Community of Lights campaign, promoting awareness of the Junior League’s five-year fundraising initiative supporting One Place Metro Alabama Justice Center.

This year, the BBJ received more than 200 nominations, which affirms the significant role of women in the Birmingham business community. Honorees were selected based on career accomplishments and contributions to their organization, as well as future leadership potential.

To learn more about the BBJ 2020 Women to Watch awards and to see the full list of honorees, click here.