Monday, March 16, 2026
, associate professor of health administration and health policy at , was recently named to the by The Business Press in recognition of her efforts to shape the next generation
of health care leaders.
The honorees 鈥� comprised of educators, builders, strategists and business owners 鈥� are declared leaders in their communities across Fort Worth. As they break barriers in their prospective fields, they also paved the way for others to make a community impact as women of influence.
Joining Wagner in this distinguished class of honorees is Dr. Opal Lee, known as the 鈥淕randmother of Juneteenth,鈥� who will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Lillie Biggins, former president of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital, who will receive the Legacy Award.
鈥淏eing recognized alongside such accomplished women is both an honor and a reminder of the responsibility we share to lift others as we lead,鈥� Wagner said. 鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to work with students, community health workers, community members, and colleagues who are passionate about improving health care access, delivery, and equity for every Texan.
Earlier this year, the associate professor published an op-ed in the San Antonio Express-News on the growing health literacy crisis in Texas. Dr. Scott Walters, PhD program director in the College of Public Health, described her message on health literacy as 鈥渢imely and aligned with public health priorities.鈥� Her acknowledgement of the challenges those with low health literacy face has furthered conversations at the state level with Governor Greg Abbott issuing a proclamation affirming Texas鈥� commitment to health literacy.
Shortly after news of her Great Women of Texas award, Wagner received a congratulatory letter from Councilmember Michael D. Crain.
鈥淒r. Wagner鈥檚 selection for this honor reflects not only her professional excellence, but also her character, perseverance, and commitment to service that strengthen communities across our state,鈥� Crain said. 鈥淗er example encourages the next generation to aim higher, serve others, and believe that they, too, can help shape the future of Texas.鈥�
The 2026 class will be honored at this year鈥檚 gala on April 8 in downtown Fort Worth.
From - Our People: by Maya McMillian