wINC luncheon honors women making a difference across North County

By Camille DeVaul · Thu Oct 01 2026

Diane Cassidy, Alexandra Chamberlain, and Dawn Smith recognized for leadership and community service

ATASCADERO — Women from across North County gathered Tuesday, Sept. 29, for the annual Women of Influence North County luncheon, celebrating three local leaders whose work has made an impact in their communities.

Hosted by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and the Atascadero Chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), the sixth annual wINC event honored Diane Cassidy, Alexandra Chamberlain, and Dawn Smith for their leadership, service and contributions.

“Women of Influence North County was an incredible celebration of leadership, connection, and possibility. The room was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and an inspiring sense of community," said Atascadero Chamber of Commerce Programs Manager Shanay Brown. "Attendees walked away with new friendships, meaningful connections, and valuable leadership takeaways they can put into action."

Cassidy, a Realtor with RE/MAX Success, was recognized for her work as a community connector and mentor, including her efforts to bring Royal Family Kids Camp to North County. Drawing from her own experience with foster care, Cassidy spent seven years building the relationships and community support needed to establish a free summer camp experience for children in foster care.

Chamberlain, executive director of Tolosa Children’s Dental Center, has spent more than 15 years working in the nonprofit sector and expanding access to oral healthcare for underserved children. Through fundraising, community partnerships and new programs, she has helped TCDC serve thousands of children throughout San Luis Obispo County.

Smith, CEO of Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County, was honored for her work in affordable housing. Through her development leadership, Smith has helped raise nearly $1 million for Habitat’s Home Preservation Program, which provides critical repairs for local seniors, veterans and families while supporting opportunities for affordable homeownership.

The luncheon followed the inaugural wINC Leadership & Impact Summit, which was held Tuesday morning and featured a keynote presentation, facilitated conversations, and a women in leadership panel.

"Our keynote speakers were engaging, authentic, and truly inspiring, leaving us energized and reminded of the incredible impact women can have when they come together, support one another, and lead with purpose,” Brown added.

ECHO Development Manager Stephanie Potter, who attended the event, said the gathering provided an opportunity for women to share their experiences and encourage one another.

“I feel like we ended up in this big circle of women. We all have connections in some way or other and talking about different wins and things that we've done that are scary or exciting," Potter said. "The event is really inspiring one another and encouraging one another and being really vulnerable with one another and I think that was special.”

The event emphasized the connections between women working in different industries and community organizations throughout North County. In addition to recognizing the three honorees, the gathering provided opportunities for attendees to connect, share experiences and discuss leadership.

At the heart of the event was the idea that community influence can take many forms, from nonprofit leadership and fundraising to mentorship, advocacy, and direct service.

“These women demonstrate that influence is about more than professional achievement. It is about using your talents, relationships, and leadership to improve the lives of others,” Atascadero Chamber President and CEO Josh Cross said ahead of the event.

Proceeds from the wINC event benefit AAUW Tech Trek and scholarships for graduating Atascadero High School girls pursuing entrepreneurial and higher education goals.

Feature Image: (From second left) Realtor Diane Cassidy, Tolosa Children’s Dental Center Executive Director Alexandra Chamberlain, and Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County CEO Dawn Smith were honored at the Sept. 29 Women of Influence North County luncheon. Photo by Rick Evans/ATN