DALLAS, Texas – The Community Builders (TCB) is proud to announce that Stephanie Garrett-Stearns has been selected to receive HousingWire’s 2026 Women of Influence award. This annual award recognizes 100 women across the nation whose leadership is shaping the future of housing. Now in its 17th year, the award honors executives and industry leaders across mortgage, real estate and homebuilding who are driving growth, innovation and operational excellence throughout the industry.
At TCB, Stephanie serves as the Senior Vice President of Communications and Fund Development based in the company’s Boston headquarters. Since being promoted to this position in 2024, she leads communications and fundraising strategy along with program execution for this leading nonprofit developer of residential and commercial real estate.
“Stephanie’s recognition as a HousingWire Women of Influence honoree is a reflection of her exceptional leadership and the impact she brings to our mission every day,” said Bart Mitchell, President and CEO of The Community Builders. “Her strategic vision, creativity and deep commitment to advancing inclusive communities have strengthened our organization and expanded our ability to serve residents across the country. We are incredibly proud of Stephanie and grateful for the passion and expertise she brings to TCB.”
This year’s honorees include CEOs, presidents, founders, operations leaders, technology executives and industry advocates responsible for some of the housing economy’s most influential organizations and initiatives. Their leadership spans lending, servicing, brokerage, homebuilding, technology, policy and market analysis, reflecting the breadth of expertise required to navigate a rapidly evolving housing landscape.
“The Women of Influence award recognizes leaders whose decisions, expertise and vision have a meaningful impact on the housing industry,” said Clayton Collins, CEO of HousingWire. “This year’s honorees are leading organizations, business lines and strategic initiatives that influence how housing professionals serve consumers, operate their businesses and respond to changing market conditions. They also represent the depth of talent and leadership women continue to bring to every corner of the housing economy. Their contributions continue to strengthen and advance the industry.”
Honorees were selected by HousingWire’s editorial team and a panel of industry professionals based on their professional accomplishments, industry leadership, community involvement and overall influence. The 2026 class reflects the strength of leadership guiding housing through a period of transformation, opportunity and continued innovation.
“We’re proud to recognize this year’s Women of Influence honorees and the leadership they bring to the housing industry,” said Sarah Wheeler, Editor-in-Chief at HousingWire. “Their impact can be seen in the organizations they lead, the teams they inspire and the progress they are driving across housing. We look forward to watching their influence continue to shape the industry in the years ahead.”
For the full list of 2026 Women of Influence award winners: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/introducing-the-2026-women-of-influence/.
About HousingWire
HousingWire is an information services company that provides unique data and research, respected business journalism and must-attend events for housing leaders to use to advance their understanding and business outcomes. Our vision is a world in which housing leaders have a complete view of the housing market, and a broad community of peers with whom they can connect. We are committed to delivering the data, analytics, media, and events that advance this vision. Because housing is too important for narrow perspectives and missed connections. Informed housing leaders are better housing leaders. A connected housing industry is a better housing industry. And the full picture always reveals new opportunities. Explore more at www.housingwire.com.