YWCA Milestones: A Tribute to Women
For nearly 30 years, YWCA Northwest Ohio has commemorated Women’s History Month by recognizing leaders throughout various professional industries and areas of activism and advocacy who embody the YWCA mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.
The Milestones Awards Event was established in 1996 to recognize women of Northwest Ohio who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and who, through their efforts and accomplishments, have opened doors for other women to achieve their potential. They are honored for outstanding accomplishments and contributions in the following seven areas: Arts, Business, Education, Government, Sciences, Social Services, and Volunteerism. A new category was added this year called, “Women On The Rise.” This award recognizes 3 outstanding young women who are making an impact early in their career, while developing their potential to become a transformative leader in our community.
Award Criteria
Nominees must live or work in Northwest Ohio, demonstrate outstanding achievement or distinction in career and community work, and exhibit leadership qualities. Criteria for selection include: unique, exemplary achievements in her field, serves as a role model for women in the community, and lives a life consistent with the YWCA mission.
Each year, YWCA of Northwest Ohio celebrates high achieving women in the community at this annual event. Established with the goal of increasing community awareness and appreciation for the diverse contributions of women leaders in Northwest Ohio, this event has honored more than 150 women in the region.
A Community Coming Together To Impact Lasting Change
The Milestones awards luncheon has evolved into YWCA of Northwest Ohio’s largest fundraising event, sponsored by local companies and organizations each year, and is one of the area’s most prestigious award recognition events for women.
Friends and supporters who believe in YWCA’s dedication to eliminating racism, empowering women, standing up for social justice, helping families, and strengthening communities come together to invest in the safety, hope, and healing of those served by YWCA’s critical programs. All proceeds raised by this important event directly benefit the programs of YWCA of Northwest Ohio.
Past & Present Honorees
2023 Recipients
Amy Chang
Ambrea Mikolajczyk
Mary Sabin
Dr. Cecelia M Adams
Lori Hauser
Tina Butts
Kristi K. Hoffman
2023 Women On The Rise
Lauren Clarke
Kendra N. Smith
Erin Baker
2022 Recipients
Jennifer Jarrett
Marsha Manahan
Mary Werner
Perlean Griffin
Dr. Joan Duggan
Robin Sulier Charney
Juanita Greene
2021 Recipients
Suzanne Rorick
Linda Mansour-Ismail, Esq.
Clara L. Petty
Judge Nicole Hayes Khoury
Michele Knox, Ph.D.
Shantae S. Brownlee
Susan Carter
2020 Recipients
Patricia Levey
Amy Hall
Sharon Gaber
Hon. Connie Zemmelman
Dr. Amanda Bryant-Friedrich
Wendi Huntley
Mona Al-Hayani
2019 Recipients
Jean Holden
Suzette Cowell
Lynn Fisher
Justice Judith Ann Lanzinger, Ret.
Mary Fedderke
Robin Reese
Lexi Hayman-Staples
2018 Recipients
Cynthia Thompson
Debra Monagan
WilliAnn Moore
Denise Cubbon
Randa Monsour-Shousher
Jan Ruma
Sarah Skow
FULL LIST OF PAST MILESTONES HONOREES