Roots in Southwest Atlanta Shape a New Honor
Marquetta Bryan has earned recognition as a 2026 Woman of Influence by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, an accolade she noted carries deep personal significance rooted in her upbringing in Southwest Atlanta.
In a personal reflection, Bryan detailed how her early life experiences—shaped by her mother, her educators within the Atlanta Public Schools system, and her church community—formed the foundation of her leadership style. She argued that true strength is not defined by titles or personas, but by the ability to maintain one’s values and support others while refusing to “shrink” for the sake of others.
Demanding Authenticity in Professional Spaces
Bryan’s message centered on the necessity of authenticity in professional spaces. She suggested that influence lacks substance if it is not paired with a person’s true self, stating that a person cannot effectively impact an environment if they leave their identity at the door.
![[Author Name] Argues Authenticity Is the Key to True Influence](https://media.gettyimages.com/id/50336139/photo/gail-evans.jpg?s=1024x1024&w=gi&k=20&c=QJj3uGAXXhtSFGisVzjGWZUL9TzT88ajb3xivag4Cxc= "[Author Name] Argues Authenticity Is the Key to True Influence")
Bringing the Whole Story to the Table
According to Bryan, when women show up fully as themselves, they do more than just occupy a seat at the table; they possess the power to transform the entire atmosphere of a space.
“I emphatically advise that you bring your whole story, your lived experiences, your high standards, and your uncompromised voice to everything you do. Because when women show up fully as ourselves, we don’t just take a seat at the table—we transform the entire atmosphere.”
Bryan Credits Evans with Blazing Leadership Trail
During the ceremony, the Atlanta Business Chronicle also honored Gail Evans with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Bryan credited Evans with “blazing the trail” and providing a model for what a sustained legacy looks like in leadership.
