Staff Reports | Business & Commerce
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce has named Carly Schorman, owner of Homecoming Inc. and Starlight Memorial Park, as its 2026 Businesswoman of the Year.
The award was presented during the Tempe Chamber’s 2026 Leadership Conference, held at The Buttes, a Marriott Resort.
The conference brought together more than 250 business and community leaders from across the Valley for a day focused on leadership development and professional growth.
First established in 1996, the Businesswoman of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding member of the Tempe business community for leadership, professional achievement and community involvement.
Ms. Schorman is the owner of Starlight Memorial Park, a historic Tempe property that includes the Casas Chavez, built in 1886, the Starlight Shop + Refillery, Atomic Apricot Ranch and Starlight Gardens. She has developed the site into a venue that hosts public events such as live music and art shows.
In addition to her work at Starlight Memorial Park, Ms. Schorman serves as president of Homecoming Inc. She previously chaired the Women in Business Council and is a published novelist whose work has appeared in various publications and podcasts. She is also a member of the Society for Business Ethics and a graduate of Tempe Leadership Class 41.
“It was a powerful day focused on connection, learning, and growth,” said Robin Arredondo-Savage, president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber. “Bringing together people from diverse industries to exchange ideas, share experiences, and support one another is what makes our work meaningful. That is how, together, we build the best version of Tempe.”
The 2026 Leadership Conference was emceed by veteran Valley reporter Jody Jackson and opened with a keynote by Trapper Searles, an entrepreneur, author and strategic adviser, who spoke about leadership mindset and business growth.
A fireside chat featured Ms. Jackson and Jenna Ghisolfo, the reigning United States of America’s Mrs. Arizona and president and CEO of Housing Consultants of America. Ms. Ghisolfo shared her personal story and discussed her work in affordable housing.
The conference also recognized graduating mentors and protégés from the Women in Business Council’s Mentor Program.
