Generations of Service: Three Women, One League

In the heart of Cincinnati, three generations of remarkable women have found a common ground for service, friendship, and making a difference—the Junior League.

Pat Stahl, Kathryn Harsh, and Mary Frances Harsh share a legacy of volunteerism, leadership, and a deep commitment to improving their community through involvement in the Junior League of Cincinnati (JLC).

The family matriarch, Pat Stahl, embarked on her Junior League journey in 1961 in Asheville, North Carolina. Her passion for service, guided by her Catholic faith, led her to become a driving force within the League. In 1974, she played a pivotal role in organizing the National Skating Tournament through the JLC, showcasing the League’s ability to spearhead impactful events. Pat’s early connections within the League enriched her life and laid the foundation for her to take on leadership responsibilities, allowing her to contribute to various service initiatives and organize meaningful events.

For Pat, the Junior League was not merely a platform for service but a gateway to diverse connections that transcended geographical boundaries. Her decision to transfer to Cincinnati after marriage expanded her reach and solidified her belief in the League’s power to unite like-minded women for a common cause. As a college-educated stay-at-home mom, she initially sought something more in the community, which drew her to the JLC. Her involvement provided her with a broader view of the community and opened doors to other community boards. This opportunity allowed her to learn how to work with people from all walks of life, enriching her perspective and contributing to her growth as a community leader. She has also inspired the women in her family to join the League and create their own unique experiences.

Kathryn Harsh, Pat’s daughter, and current Co-VP of the Sustainers Council, found a space where women from different backgrounds, bound by a common interest in volunteerism, could unite. Beyond the philanthropic aspect, she values the professional training the League provides outside the workplace, allowing her to acquire management and leadership skills that have proven invaluable in her career.

Kathryn played a pivotal role in planning the JLC’s Centennial Gala in 2020, a monumental undertaking that spanned two years. It was a labor of love, with people from all walks of life coming together to contribute. The gala celebrated a century of service and gave Kathryn a magical sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the idea that the League is a community where hard work and dedication lead to tangible, meaningful outcomes.

Mary Frances Harsh, Kathryn’s daughter and Pat’s granddaughter, grew up witnessing her mother’s and grandmother’s dedication to the Junior League. Inspired by their commitment, Mary Frances followed in their footsteps, finding a profound sense of purpose within the League. She values the common group values of the organization, particularly the strong thread of volunteerism and service opportunities that have become synonymous with the Junior League.

For Mary Frances, who is currently serving as the Vice Chair of Membership Recruitment , the Junior League is a hub of diverse friendships, connecting her with individuals from different professions and phases of life. The advice and experiences shared by fellow members are a sharpening tool, helping her navigate her personal and professional life. The League’s emphasis on connections and the power of good people resonates deeply with Mary Frances, as she believes in taking what she learns and applying it to make a positive impact within the League and in her workplace. As Pat observes the work that her daughter and granddaughter continue to do within the Junior League, she takes pride in their contributions’ lasting impact. The trio expresses their heartfelt gratitude to everyone within the JLC community. Their message is clear: the Junior League is not just an organization but a vibrant, interconnected community of passionate individuals dedicated to making a lasting impact on the world around them. Through the years, the League has not only shaped these women’s connected lives but has become a force for positive change, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership spanning three generations in the Junior League of Cincinnati.