The CEO of a local hospital has a special appreciation for this year’s Businesswoman of the Year, picked at the annual Women of Influence Executive luncheon. It is organized by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and recognizes women in business who demonstrate the highest level of leadership, professionalism, and community involvement.
The 2026 Businesswoman of the Year in Columbia County is Dr. Quynh Spicer, founder of Thomson Family Dental, Harlem Family Dental, and Home Instead Augusta.
“I actually have no idea what to say. I truly am humbled to be receiving this, and I honestly have to thank my husband for giving me this opportunity to do what I truly love is to be a part of this community,” a clearly surprised Spicer said. “I’m just incredibly honored to be with all the women that you have called today. Truly, I’m speechless, but thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to be up here.”
Born in Vietnam, Dr. Spicer immigrated to the United States at age five and became a U.S. citizen at age ten. Over her career, she has built multiple healthcare practices. She has also been recognized as Columbia County’s Small Business of the Year, Best Dentist, and Best Place to Work, and she serves on the Columbia County Chamber Board and Executive Committee.
“Dr. Spicer’s story is one of hard work, resilience, and service. Her leadership, her entrepreneurial drive, and her unwavering commitment to serving others make a measurable impact on the CSRA and we are proud to honor her,” said chamber president Heath Taylor, who added, “It’s been a pleasure to get to work with you in the short amount of time that I’ve been here, but we are privileged to have you on our board as well.”
Leading up to the announcement, Dr. Lily Henson, CEO of Piedmont Augusta and the program’s sponsor, stressed the importance of women in the workforce, particularly in healthcare.
“Women make up nearly 77% of the U.S. healthcare workforce,” she said. In nursing, that number is over 85%; women represent more than 60% of pharmacists and over 70% of medical and health services managers in a field that has been historically dominated by men. Women now account for 39% of physicians and more than half of the medical students out there.”
Helen Caldwell, chair of the chamber’s Board of Directors, said the annual event was also an opportunity to honor the women who came before today’s leaders.
“The ones who built boundaries, challenged expectations, and made it possible for women like us to have a seat at the table,” she said. “Because of their courage and persistence, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to continue building on that legacy. Looking around this room, it is clear that the same strength, resilience, and innovation are alive and well.”
In addition to announcing the Businesswoman of the Year, the event featured a panel discussion with businesswomen who have previously been selected for the honor.
Moderated by Dr. Stacy Roberts of Augusta University, the panel featured Amanda Drake from C & C Automotive, Joann Herbert with Herbert Homes, Inc., Wendy Perry of Katalis, and Angela Brock from The Cleveland Group.
