Hannaford Supermarkets and B95.5 are partnering to identify and celebrate women in the Capital Region its the

20 Outstanding Women!

We found the women who go above and beyond to make their communities a better place to live. Those unsung heroes in our neighborhoods – the ones who are already busy, yet find the time to give back in big ways to help others.

 Friday, March 13, 2026

Today's Outstanding Woman is,

Susan Wells of Troy

Susan Wells is a patriot, a visionary, and a woman whose simple but profound idea has grown into a national movement of gratitude and remembrance. As the Founder and CEO of Stars For Our Troops, Susan has dedicated herself to ensuring that those who serve and sacrifice for this country are never forgotten and that even a retired flag can carry its legacy forward.

The story of Stars For Our Troops began in September 2010, when Susan gathered a small group of WWII Veterans and their families and set to work on just four flags. The concept was as meaningful as it was elegant: when American flags become too tattered and faded to fly, rather than simply retiring them, the embroidered stars are carefully removed, paired with a heartfelt note of gratitude, and placed into the hands of the veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families who earned them.

What began with four flags has grown into something extraordinary. To date, over 27,000 flags have been repurposed, yielding more than 1,600,000 individual stars distributed across the country. Susan has recruited volunteer star makers throughout the United States, transforming Stars For Our Troops from a local gesture of appreciation into a coast-to-coast expression of national gratitude.

The impact of each star is deeply personal. For the veteran or first responder who receives one, it is a tangible reminder that their service is seen, their sacrifice is honored, and their community has not forgotten them. In a world that moves quickly, Susan Wells has created something that asks us to pause, to remember, to honor, and to say thank you in a way that truly endures.

Nominated by  Jane Pfaffenbach, Susan Kent, Sara Perez & June Foltz

Listen to her interview below!

See all of this year's 20 Outstanding Women announced so far!

Congratulations to all of the 20 Outstanding Women with Hannaford Supermarkets and B95.5!

Check out the Outstanding Women from years past!

Class of 2025!

Class of 2024!