Frankie Smith Hohenberger named 2025 Woman of Achievement

The Zonta Club of Fredericksburg, TX, USA, proudly named Frankie Smith Hohenberger as its 2025 Woman of Achievement, honoring her with a banquet and ceremony at The Golden Hub. She is the 41st recipient of the award since the club began recognizing local women for their exceptional contributions to the community.

Frankie's life of leadership spans a distinguished professional career, devotion to family and ranching heritage and community service. She completed 34 years of government service with the Department of the Interior’s National Park Service, with additional years at the U.S. Postal Service. Reflecting on her career, Frankie said, "I will forever recall that the word 'Service' in the National Park Service resonated into my makeup and life belief for service to others."

Deeply rooted in her family's ranching legacy, Frankie has worked to preserve the Smith Ranch, established in 1855. Alongside her husband, Kirby, she supported their children's involvement in Blanco County 4-H and the Johnson City Future Farmers of America (FFA), serving as a 4-H Club Manager, FFA leader and chaperone for educational trips and livestock competitions. She also served as Secretary for the Blanco County Youth Council and was active in the Blanco County Extension Education Association, organizations committed to supporting and providing scholarships for local youth. For their dedication, she and her husband were recognized as Outstanding Adult Leaders for Blanco County 4-H and the Johnson City FFA Chapter.

Frankie continues her advocacy for agriculture as a member of the Hill Country Cattle Women's Association, preserving Texas farm and ranch traditions and supporting youth scholarships. She also serves as vice chair of the Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency’s three-county committee, helping local farmers and ranchers implement programs to improve agricultural operations.

Beyond agriculture, Frankie has championed education and advocacy for women and girls. Before retiring, she was active in the Johnson City Women's Civic Club, promoting civic projects and scholarships for young women. Since joining the Zonta Club of Fredericksburg in 2007, she has served as Board Director, President, Treasurer and chaired numerous club activities. She also served a two-year term as a member of the Zonta International District 10 Nominating Committee.

Her community service extends further, having served two decades as Treasurer and Secretary for Walnut Methodist Church, a role she inherited from her mother and previously completing two terms as a Trustee—and President—of the Johnson City Independent School District Board.

Frankie Smith Hohenberger’s lifelong dedication to service, leadership, and community embodies the spirit of Zonta International and continues to inspire future generations.