A Senior VP, the first African American woman to lead a Federal Reserve branch and a woman who can squat 515 pounds. These are the Mid-South women recognized for being strong, smart and bold by Girls Inc. of Memphis  at the non-profit group's 18th annual Celebration Luncheon held at Bridges.

Strong Award: Martha Perine Beard, Vice President and Senior Branch Executive, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

Martha Perine Beard came from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected women in Memphis . She was the first person in her family to attend college and today is the first African American woman to lead a Federal Reserve branch. She has received awards for her leadership skills and community service. Her success didn’t come without its professional and personal challenges. Her first husband died while her children were still in school. Today they have families and successful careers of their own. Despite her accomplishments, Beard is not one to rest on her laurels.  She devotes countless hours to mentoring young people.

Smart Award: Judy Bell, Senior Vice President of the Memphis Area Teachers’ Credit Union

Judy Bell’s career in banking began in 1977. She was a single mom raising 2 children on her own while trying to obtain what very few women could at that time—promotions in high management positions. Now she’s helping girls in Memphis achieve their goals. Bellhires young women with little or no experience to groom them for future promotions. She makes time to coach and mentor girls. She sits on numerous boards and has received countless honors for being involved, dedicated and smart.

Bold Award: My Harrison, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Memphis Division

My Harrison has been in law enforcement for more than 30 years. She was selected to head the FBI’s Memphisfield office in 2005 making her only the third African American woman in a senior executive position with the agency. Since coming to Memphis, she has supervised several high-profile federal investigations including "Operation Tennessee Waltz," "Operation Tarnished Blue" and "Operation Main Street Sweeper." Although Harrison holds the record for the amount of weight squats—515 pounds, she is not receiving the Girls Inc. Strong Award, she was chosen for being bold.

“This event not only recognized, but honored women in our community who best represent our mission—inspiring all girls to be strong smart and bold,” says Stacie Waddell, Girls Inc. Chair. “These outstanding women have achieved success in their chosen fields while managing the demands of career and family. They’re also viewed as good role models for our girls and young women.”