More than two decades later, Almond’s commitment to public service has earned her recognition as one of YHN Media Group’s 2026 Women of Impact. A family tradition of public serviceFor Almond, an interest in government began long before she entered public office. “I grew up in a household where public service and politics were a regular part of family conversation,” she said. “Public service provides the opportunity to leave things better than you found them, and that responsibility motivates me every day.” Almond’s children were 4 and 6 when she began her public service career.