By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
Talya Conroy has been nominated for the Prince William Living Influential Women Award for her visionary leadership, commitment to arts accessibility, and ability to connect the community through creativity.
As Chief Executive Officer of the ARTfactory, Talya has guided the organization through significant growth and professionalization. “She has transformed it from a community arts center into a professional theatre,” her nominator shared, ensuring artists are paid for their work and creating sustainable creative careers within the region.
Talya’s story came full circle. She first stepped onto the ARTfactory stage at age eleven. She returned decades later to lead the organization with “the strategic insight of a former banking vice president and the soul of an artist.”
Under her leadership, the ARTfactory strengthened its financial foundation, expanded partnerships with schools and civic organizations, and increased access to theatre, dance, and visual arts for people of all ages and abilities.
Talya is also a mentor to emerging women leaders and an advocate for inclusion, using the arts as a bridge for dialogue, diversity, and community connection.
Talya Conroy is being nominated for her leadership, which demonstrates how creativity, fiscal responsibility, and empathy can transform both organizations and communities.
Help us celebrate Talya and all of the 2026 Prince William Living Influential Women Awards nominees. Reserve your tickets for the Influential Women Awards Celebration at Sweeney Barn on March 5, 2026, and join us in honoring women who are making Greater Prince William a more creative, caring, and connected place. Visit princewilliamliving.com/influential-women for more details and ticket information.
https://princewilliamliving.com/influential-women/
Join Us!Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living and the founder of the Influential Women Awards, created to honor women whose leadership, service, and professional accomplishments strengthen the Greater Prince William community. As a business owner, nonprofit leader, and long-standing advocate for local engagement, Rebecca has dedicated more than two decades to spotlighting the people and organizations that make Prince William, Manassas, and Manassas Park thrive. Through her work in media, destination branding, and community partnerships, she continues to amplify stories of impact and ensure that those who give back receive recognition equal to their contribution.
