“The perfect fit for your grounds maintenance needs” Design - Outdoor Living - Maintenance
www.theturftailor.net
Strong Women, Stronger Community
As the warmth of May unfolds, so does our annual Women’s Issue—a tribute to the incredible women who shape our community with strength, vision and generosity.
Women are the heartbeat of our homes, businesses and neighborhoods. They are the mentors who guide us, the caregivers who nurture us, the leaders who challenge us and the friends who lift us up. Their resilience and compassion create ripples of change, shaping a future where possibilities are limitless. This issue is our way of saying thank you to the women who inspire us daily.
This May we highlight two nonprofits dedicated to supporting and empowering women—the YWCA and Women Walking West. We also introduce you to West Chester Township’s new Township Administrator, a leader who has served our community for seven years and now steps into this crucial, new role. With Mother’s Day on the horizon, we celebrate through the love language of food, sharing delightful recipes from a talented local female chef—perfect for celebrating the special women in our lives.
One of my favorite Mother’s Day memories is when my sons tried to make me chocolate covered strawberries all by themselves, many years ago. As young boys, they weren’t sure how to get the chocolate chips to melt, so they kept adding water to try to liquify it, then froze them overnight. The result was an inedible bowl of strawberries frozen in chocolatey mush—but the effort was so sweet that I can’t help but cherish the memory.
We hope you enjoy this special edition celebrating the women who lead, serve and inspire us.
MICHELLE MOODY, PUBLISHER MICHELLE.MOODY@CITYLIFESTYLE.COM
May
PUBLISHER
Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
A.J. Lape
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Dominique Camille, A.J. Lape, Jonathan Stout
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Cara Jonas Photography, Dominique Camille, Rick Crockett, Fitton Center for Creative Arts, Laura Hicks, Janie Jones, Lakota Local Schools, Lanmen Photography, Kenidi Morris, W3 Staff
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
2025 Visit our Instagram
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
inside the issue
Are you ready to take control of your career and future?
Your time is now.
Butler Tech’s adult training opens doors to life-long careers by providing the skills and certifications needed to start your future in Healthcare, Industrial Technology, Public Safety, or Transportation in 11 months or less.
Our adult career campuses are conveniently located, and financial aid is available; plus, we provide job placement assistance at the end of your training.
Why wait? Start building a career that will last a lifetime! Visit ButlerTech.org to get started.
Start Your Career Journey Today! For more information, visit: butlertech.org
5:
for
and
an art gallery for students in grades
a Shawnee Early Childhood student at the annual Light Up Lakota
CARA JONAS PHOTOGRAPHY
LAKOTA LOCAL SCHOOLS
1: West Chester/Liberty Rotary Club partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County to explore the Boonshoft Museum. 2: The Chamber Alliance’s 2025 Annual Celebration award winners: Ashley Seyberth, Kathy Cook, Lucas J. Schroeder, Joel Nimoh, Patrick J. Hinker, Lindsey Law + Jennifer McKenzie. 3: Lakota art teachers + the Fitton Center team transformed Liberty Center into
7-12. 4: Superintendent Ashley Whitely learns about coding from
event.
The Learning Kitchen, available
private
corporate events, hosted the Chamber’s Women 4 Women event.
LAKOTA LOCAL SCHOOLS + FITTON CENTER
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Reach Health + Fitness Goals with Clean Eatz
Clean Eatz is dedicated to making healthy eating accessible and enjoyable for everyone! Your ultimate destination for meals that are both nutritious and tasty, Clean Eatz ensures you don't have to sacrifice flavor for health. All meals are prepared in-house and made available via its dine-in cafe, weekly meal plans, frozen grab-andgo's, catering, supplements, snacks and smoothies. Clean Eatz keeps you on track to reach health and wellness goals. Locations.CleanEatz.com/oh/westchestertownship
Scan to read more
The Goddard School Keeps Wonder Alive All Summer for Students
Extend the school year with The Goddard School’s summer programs, designed to engage children through curiosity. Fill your child’s summer with the opportunity to have fun, connect with friends and continue building essential social-emotional skills through hands-on learning. Discover Camp offers full- and half-day options for Pre-K students, ages 4-5. Match your busy family calendar by choosing 2-5 days per week of Adventure Camp for school-aged children, ages 6-10. 513.860.1500, GoddardSchool.com/schools/oh/west-chester/west-chester-hamilton
Scan to read more
Liberty Collective Entertainment Multiplex Opens in Liberty Township This Spring
Liberty Collective, the area’s newest food, beverage and entertainment destination, is set to open this spring at 6735 Lakota Lane in Liberty Township. The much-anticipated, community-centric complex features indoor and outdoor family fun, The Beach—a sand spot for sports and entertainment, five restaurant concepts, a coffee/breakfast bar, an ice cream shoppe and three bars, including a wine/bourbon tasting bar and a self-pour wall. Private event rooms and indoor golf simulators will also be available. Liberty-Collective.com
Welcome to Dominique’s House
GULLAH-INSPIRED RECIPES TO CELEBRATE THE WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE
ARTICLE BY DOMINIQUE CAMILLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOMINIQUE CAMILLE + LANMEN PHOTOGRAPHY
There is something spiritual about gathering around the dining room table. I’ve witnessed first-hand how, in the presence of a table spread, family, friends and even perfect strangers let their guard down, open up and share. Guests may enter my home as strangers, but they leave as friends.
I recently embarked on a culinary road trip to South Carolina, where I learned about the integral role Gullah people played in the creation of Southern cuisine. Gullah Geechee recipes reflect the rich cultural heritage of the descendants of enslaved West Africans who lived in the coastal Southeast. In this culture, cooking is a family tradition with Gullah matriarchs, “beenyas,” preserving and sharing their culinary heritage with the generations. This Mother’s Day, I hope you and your guests enjoy this Gullah-inspired meal as much as I do.
Dominique’s House
Dominique Camille is an avid baker, cook and gardener. She is the hostess of Dominique’s House, a private dining experience at her Cincinnati table. By following her motto to, “Make good food. Invite people. Do it often,” Dominique creates magical moments for guests with food and fellowship that nourishes the body and the soul. DominiqueCamille.com
SEA ISLAND RED PEAS WITH CAROLINA GOLD RICE
Ingredients - Peas
• 1½ cups Anson Mills Sea Island Red Peas, covered with water, soaked overnight in the refrigerator, then drained
• 1 quart water
• 1 13.5-ounce can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
• 1 pound of cooked spicy chorizo
• 8 ounces of salt pork, diced small
• 1 yellow onion, diced medium
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
Ingredients-Rice
• 2 cups Carolina Gold Rice (I get mine online from Anson Mills)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 13.5-ounce can coconut milk
• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• Pink Himalayan salt to taste
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a Dutch oven or heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add salt pork and sauté until browned.
2. Add to the pot onion, celery, carrots, garlic and cooked chorizo. Sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Add peas, water, coconut milk, scotch bonnet, thyme and bay leaves. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for about one hour, until peas are tender.
4. Add red pepper flakes.
5. Prepare the rice. Add rice and coconut oil to a medium pot on medium heat and quickly stir until the rice is coated.
6. Add coconut milk, water, salt sugar and cardamom and turn the heat to high.
7. Bring the rice to a boil, uncovered. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (12 -15 minutes).
8. Remove rice from the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes. Fluff before serving.
9. Serve the peas over the rice.
This is one of my favorite recipes to prepare for guests. Heirloom African cowpeas have a bold flavor and cook to a sweet, creamy richness. The African rice is named for the golden color of its unhulled grains—it’s the best rice I’ve ever tasted. CONTINUED >
C I N C I N N A T I
High-end furniture and home decor for a FRACTION of the price!
May
SALE WEEK
SATURDAY, MAY 17 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
SUNDAY, MAY 18 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
FRIDAY, MAY 23 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Join us for our once-a-month warehouse shopping event and shop high-end home furnishings you ’ re used to seeing at your favorite upscale home furnishing chains for a FRACTION of the price!
Mention this ad to receive 10% off your total purchase up to $2500!
MEET DR. ALEXANDRA SHEHATA
• Dr. Shehata incorporates the latest technology and advancements in cosmetic dentistry to provide exceptional care
• She makes dental treatment comfortable and stress-free, especially for anxious patients
• Outside of dentistry, she enjoys foodie adventures, cheering on the Bengals, and boating at Lake Cumberland with her husband and dog.
Locally Owned Business
Dr. Phuoc Tran
Dr. Alexandra Shehata
Dr. Samuel Gersch
SERVICES INCLUDE:
• Sleep Studies
• Invisalign®
• Botox, Fillers, TMJ pain management and more
• Implants
*Photo by Cara Jonas Photography
Peas and rice are perfectly paired with skillet cornbread (or “soul bread” as some call it) that I like to enhance with the nutty, bold flavor of brown butter.
Ingredients
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup salted butter, browned
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, brown the butter.
3. Whisk dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Add the buttermilk, eggs and ¼ cup browned butter until just mixed.
4. Place ¼ cup of brown butter in a 9-inch cast iron skillet. Heat the skillet in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Remove skillet from the oven and pour in the batter. Return to oven and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven.
6. Pour remaining ¼ cup brown butter over the cornbread. Let cool slightly before serving.
Add a protein of your choice to complete the menu: fried catfish, smothered pork chops or chicken. Here’s my recipe for Hot Honey Chicken, a perfect complement.
Ingredients
• 8 chicken thighs (bone-in/skin-on)
• All-purpose seasoning salt to taste. I like A.L.L. Seasoning
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup hot sauce of your choice
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and season on both sides.
3. Place in the oven and cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
4. While the chicken is in the oven, make the sauce. Mix honey and hot sauce in a small bowl until well combined.
5. When the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and drizzle with the hot honey sauce.
CONTINUED >
Ingredients
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon all spice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mashed bananas
• 1 8-ounce can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla
• pinch of salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the chopped pecans on the sheet and toast for 7–8 minutes. Remove from oven and cool.
2. Turn the oven up to 350°F. Grease and lightly flour three 8-inch cake pans.
3. Whisk the dry ingredients together in a large bowl.
4. Whisk the rest of the cake ingredients in a medium bowl. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and whisk until combined. Fold in 1½ cups toasted pecans. (Save the rest for garnish.)
5. Spread batter evenly between the three cake pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and cool completely in pans. Remove cakes from pans.
8. Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl with a mixer on medium-high until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla and salt. Beat for 3 minutes until creamy. Frosting should be soft but not runny. Add more confectioners’ sugar if frosting is too thin or add a little milk if frosting is too thick.
9. Place one cake layer on a cake stand. Evenly cover the top with frosting. Top with second layer, more frosting and then top with the third layer. Spread remaining frosting all over the top and sides. Decorate with remaining toasted pecans. Refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the cake hold its shape when cutting.
HUMMINGBIRD CAKE
This southern gem boasts three incredibly moist layers flavored with crushed pineapple, ripe bananas and warm spices. Is there a better cake than Hummingbird Cake? Nope. Absolutely not.
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY CARA JONAS PHOTOGRAPHY
In Her Own Words
MEET NEW WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR LISA BROWN
Attention, West Chester residents—there’s a new Township Administrator at the helm. Get to know Lisa Brown, who was promoted to the new role in February after serving as Assistant Township Administrator since 2018. Her knowledge of our community, dedication to the Township organization and passion for our success shines through in her leadership style. Brown shares in her own words about her new role, goals for the future of the Township and strategic planning progress to support residents and businesses.
Q: What are your goals for making sure West Chester remains a great place to live?
A: Community amenities are a major focus I want to shift toward in the coming years. It’s critical that we support the needs of our long-term, established residents, while also investing in “livability amenities”–recreational and entertainment opportunities that will serve West Chester’s next generation of families and young professionals.
“I am a servant leader. I live to serve, whether that’s serving my fellow citizens, my organization or the entire community.”
– Lisa Brown
Q: How will you support businesses as they grow and thrive in West Chester?
A: I aim to support both our large corporations and small businesses by ensuring they have the logistics, resources and workforce needed to thrive. Over the next two years, my goal is to build relationships in the business community and truly understand their needs. I want to listen first, which will help our team develop a plan that is responsive.
Q: What principles guide your decisionmaking and leadership style?
A: At my core, I am a servant leader. I live to serve, whether that’s serving my fellow citizens, my organization or the entire community. My guiding principle is always to do the right thing for the right reason. I do not make arbitrary decisions. I take a very strategic approach and always keep people and the mission of the organization at the forefront of my mind. West Chester is a local government, and local government exists to serve the people. Everything we do should align with the needs of the community.
Q: What excites you about the next few years?
A: Looking ahead, I’m excited about developing a comprehensive parks and amenities plan, which will be a challenge but ultimately a rewarding catalyst for the township’s future success. I also look forward to seeing the evolution of our workforce. A generational shift is happening, and it’s exciting to witness new faces bringing fresh energy and ideas into our organization.
Right now, I’m focused on furthering my education. I am enrolled in law school at the University of Dayton, and I will complete my degree in 2026. Personally, I’ll be happy to finish in the coming year, so that I can get back that real estate in my brain and apply what I’ve learned to serving the West Chester community. It will also be nice to have more free time to enjoy all the wonderful events and amenities offered by our growing community with my husband and three children.
Watch for Lisa Brown around town, where she works to make our community thrive. WestChesterTownship.org
YWCA HAMILTON CEO WENDY WATERS-CONNELL EMPOWERS LIVES + INSPIRES CHANGE
Believe in Three
on
including
ARTICLE BY A.J. LAPE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARA JONAS PHOTOGRAPHY
CEO Wendy Waters-Connell serves
boards + committees,
the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, Women Walking West, the Ohio Council of YWCAs + YWCA USA
“Believe in Three.” That personal mantra has become a guiding force in the life and leadership of YWCA CEO Wendy Waters-Connell—illuminating a path first lit by someone who believed in her when she needed it most.
“I grew up in challenging circumstances at home,” she shares. “My life changed because of amazing teachers, [especially] Mrs. Stephanie Darbyshire, who told me I could have a different life.”
As a freshman teetering between uncertainty and possibility, Waters-Connell confided in her teacher.
She told Darbyshire, “I don’t have enough money to go to college, and I’m not smart enough.”
Darbyshire’s compassionate response shifted everything. She urged Waters-Connell to dream beyond her circumstances and promised they would find a way forward.
CONTINUED >
“She told me, ‘We will find the money, just work hard,’ and that changed my whole life,” Waters-Connell recalls.
Today, as a leader, mentor and advocate, WatersConnell strives to pay that generosity forward—threefold. She strives to return three times the support she once received, hoping its impact ripples outward to uplift even more women.
Waters-Connell’s Native American roots shaped her perspective on community and service. A seasoned nurse and experienced administrator, she spent decades leading elder care initiatives before her husband nudged her to apply for CEO of the YWCA—her retirement dream job.
“I read the job description, cried because it felt so aligned and applied. That was seven years ago,” she recalls.
Under Waters-Connell’s leadership, the YWCA has undergone significant transformation. With the dedication of its board members, they secured funding to build a new state-of-the-art campus, expanding their ability to serve those in need.
The organization’s mission is carried out through three core programs: a domestic violence crisis hotline and shelter, permanent housing for 45 disabled and chronically homeless individuals and racial
Donor tree in the YWCA lobby
The YWCA Playground is a fun gathering spot for families
•
•
justice initiatives focused on youth abuse prevention, empowerment and reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the Black community.
“All our programs serve some of the most vulnerable women and children in our community,” WatersConnell explains. “This is especially true for the domestic violence shelter and crisis hotline.”
While the YWCA’s housing program is open to everyone, 15 units are specifically dedicated to women who have experienced trauma. Women who seek refuge at the YWCA often arrive with their children. They begin healing when they are connected to health and counseling services. Since the housing is temporary, the YWCA ensures families access job training and other essential resources to help them regain independence and safety.
The weight of the work is never lost on WatersConnell. For her, the goal is always forward-driven. With a 24/7 operation and a staff of more than 20, safety is the top priority. Doors remain locked around the clock, a six-foot privacy fence secures the perimeter and Hamilton Police can be onsite within 30 seconds if needed.
Many victims of domestic violence don’t know where to turn for help. To reach them, the YWCA publicizes its crisis hotline number on stickers placed in public bathroom stalls, restaurants and other well-traveled areas, hoping victims will discreetly snap a photo or jot it down. Referrals also come from survivors and community-based advocates working in the court system or hospitals.
“We work just like the Underground Railroad,” WatersConnell says. “This is a national network, so we take survivors from all over the country and keep them safe.”
While domestic violence support is at the heart of the YWCA’s work, its racial justice initiatives are equally critical, addressing the systemic disparities that disproportionately impact communities of color.
“We will keep doing the work until institutions are transformed,” she says, “until the world sees women, girls, Black, Indigenous and People of Color the way we do—equal, powerful, unstoppable. In the end, we hope to put ourselves out of business—because if we’re no longer needed, it means racism is no longer a thing and women are empowered in every space.”
Although 90% of the YWCA’s funding comes from grants, public and private donations remain vital. The organization also partners with local nonprofits that donate clothing and personal care products.
To get involved or contribute, visit YWCAHamilton.org.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Florals and Fruit
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
Flower Frogs
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between longstemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
More Than Just Academics
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN STOUT
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Women Walking West (W3), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, strives to help foreign-born students lead successful lives in the United States. Their extensive mentorship program assists women struggling with linguistic, social, cultural and academic differences in American society. But it’s more than just academics. Mentees who complete the W3 program enter schools and workplaces with rejuvenated confidence and a sense of community. In celebration of their 10th anniversary, we chatted with two graduates of the W3 mentee program.
WOMEN WALKING WEST CELEBRATES
10TH ANNIVERSARY
SUPPORTING WOMEN’S EDUCATIONAL GOALS + DREAMS
Dr. Bi Awosika, 2024 Gala Keynote Speaker
Assistant Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Professor at UC College of Medicine
Photo by Rick Crockett + Kenidi Morris
“WOMEN WALKING WEST OFFERS SOMETHING TRULY
UNIQUE: PERSONAL, ONEON-ONE ATTENTION AND ONGOING FOLLOW-UP THAT CONTINUES UNTIL THE MENTEE ACHIEVES HER GOALS.” - OLGA KLOCHKOV
OLGA KLOCHKOV
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH WOMEN WALKING WEST?
I heard about the organization through a friend who worked as a student career advisor at Miami University. At that time, I was teaching ESOL classes through the Aspire Program for immigrant residents of Butler County, helping others like me who were navigating their new lives in the United States. I came to the United States from Belarus as an international student, and I quickly realized how challenging the cultural differences were to my studies. The United States has a completely different academic and professional culture that I had to adapt to. Having a support system dedicated to helping women overcome these challenges was exactly what I needed.
WHAT WAS THE MOST HELPFUL PART OF YOUR EXPERIENCE?
The most valuable part of my experience was the incredible people I met, especially my mentor, Judy Lightner-Noll. She is an educator and a career coach who works with professionals in higher education, which made her the perfect match for me. Having someone who understood the complexities of navigating academia as a foreigner was incredibly reassuring. Judy’s guidance helped me adapt to the U.S. educational system and provided me with practical advice to help me achieve my goals. I felt seen, understood and supported—something I had been craving since I came to the United States.
DO YOU HAVE ANY FOND MEMORIES YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?
One of my fondest memories was the Camp Joy training day. It was beautifully organized, and we were challenged to think creatively, solve problems and work as a team. The tasks were fun but also pushed us out of our comfort zones and helped us realize our strengths. As an immigrant from Belarus who had already overcome many challenges, it was incredibly empowering to see how far I had come. I left feeling inspired and more connected to the women around me. CONTINUED
From L to R: Counselor Ottis Williams, Mentees: Manirambona Ernestine, Prekshya Nepal, Olga Klochkov, Priyanshi Shah. Photo by W3 Staff
W3 Chief of Operations and Development, Dr. Fatemeh Hajihosseini and Founder and Board Chair, Dr. George Sehi. Photo by W3 Staff
10 Years of Women Walking West
CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS BY THE
NUMBERS
1. Since its 2015 inception, Women Walking West has helped more than 250 women with their educational goals + dreams.
2. They have served women from 59 different countries.
3. They have over 170 volunteers, as mentors, advisors, event coordinators, IT specialists + marketing coordinators assisting with daily tasks.
4. They have 14 university + K-12 partners.
5. They have 10 returning corporate sponsors.
6. To date, W3 has given more than $70,000 in scholarships + cash awards to mentees.
7. To date, they have received 14 grants from private foundations + corporations.
8. They have held 5 Annual Gala fundraising events at the Manor House, hosting an average of 450 mentees, mentors, donors, corporate sponsors, city representatives + community members.
9. They’ve also held 4 annual essay writing contests, awarding winners with cash prizes.
10. April 9 has been declared Women Walking West Day in the City of Mason.
WOULD YOU RECOMMEND WOMEN WALKING WEST TO OTHER INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS?
I would highly recommend Women Walking West to international students who are trying to find their way in a foreign land. The truth is, colleges and universities often lack the resources and personalized attention needed to help international students acclimate and thrive in such a different educational environment. Women Walking West offers something truly unique: personal, one-on-one attention and ongoing follow-up that continues until the mentee achieves her goals.
PREKSHYA NEPAL
HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY WITH WOMEN WALKING WEST BEGIN?
My journey with Women Walking West began as a student looking for guidance and support. What interested me most was the organization’s mission to help women like me navigate not only academic challenges but also the cultural and personal adjustments that come with being far from home.
WHAT PART OF YOUR EXPERIENCE WAS MOST HELPFUL TO YOU?
The mentorship—having someone I could turn to for advice and encouragement made a huge difference. It gave me confidence and helped me feel less alone during difficult transitions. That genuine care and encouragement had a lasting impact on me.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WOMEN WALKING WEST EVENT?
The annual gala is my favorite event. I love hearing the stories from mentees—they are always inspiring and show the real impact of the organization. I also had the honor of speaking at the gala, which was a very special moment for me.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CONTINUE TO BE A PART OF THE ORGANIZATION AFTER COMPLETING YOUR MENTEE PROGRAM?
I wanted to give back. I knew how much the support meant to me, and I wanted to help other women feel the same encouragement and guidance that I received. I also saw how much impact Women Walking West has in building confidence and creating opportunities for international women. Being part of that mission and contributing to the growth of others has been incredibly fulfilling and it continues to inspire me.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PROCESS OF HOW YOU BECAME A BOARD MEMBER?
After staying involved with the organization and seeking every opportunity to get involved, founder Dr. George Sehi reached out to me with this opportunity. We had conversations about how I could contribute further, and after that, I was formally nominated, went through the selection process with the current Board Members and was elected after receiving their votes.
Learn more about W3 at WomenWalkingWest.org
gat W3 Gala Photo by L
MAY 3RD
Liberty Township Historical Society Spring Open House + Liberty Garden Club’s Plant Sale
Hughes School, 6010 Princeton Road, Liberty Township | 9:00 AM
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first organizational meeting of the Liberty Township Historical Society. You are invited to the annual Spring Open House at historic Hughes School, happening in conjunction with the Liberty Garden Club’s Plant Sale on the grounds, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Facebook.com/LibertyTownshipHistoricalSociety
MAY 4TH
Liberty Township’s Spot-A-Truck
Liberty Center, 7100 Foundry Row, Liberty Township | 11:00 AM
Join Liberty Township and Liberty Center for an exclusive look at your favorite trucks and even a helicopter! Various big engines will be on-hand from organizations such as Liberty Township Fire Department, Liberty Township Services Department, Butler County Sheriff's Office and more. Vehicles will be parked in the parking lot next to the Taylor Garage, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Liberty-Center.com
MAY 17TH
Purple Monkey Project 4th Annual Reagan’s Fun Run 5K
Fairfield Senior High School, 8800 Holden Blvd., Fairfield | 9:00 AM
Reagan's Fun Run was created to unite the community around her passion for running, offering a chance to enjoy running with family and friends. Registration begins at 9 a.m., elite runners start at 10 a.m. and Fun Run runners and walkers start at 10:14 a.m. Enjoy face painting, raffle baskets, chiropractic massages, food, drinks, music and dancing. Register online. PurpleMonkeyProject.org
WE SALUTE THEIR SERVICE & SACRIFICE
MAY 17TH, 18TH + 23RD
Bliss Home Market Cincinnati Warehouse
Bliss Home Market Cincinnati, 9415 Meridian Way, West Chester | 8:00 AM
Bliss Home Market Cincinnati is restocked with quality, brand-name furniture and home décor each sale, ready to go home with you at affordable prices. Open 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday, followed by a one-day after-sale on May 23 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cincy.BlissHomeMarket.com
MAY 18TH
Golfing for Awareness
TopGolf West Chester, 9568 Water Front Drive, West Chester | 1:00 PM
Join Cleveland Browns linebacker and local native Jordan Hicks at this new event that’s championing special needs students and fostering an inclusive community. Enjoy a fun-filled day featuring interactive golf games, food, drinks and celebrity photo opportunities. Proceeds benefit True Strength Ability Awareness, empowering and providing vital resources for local special education departments and students. Register online. Golf4Awareness.givesmart.com
MAY 19TH
Butler County United Way Golf United Classic
Shaker Run Golf Club, 1320 Golf Club Drive, Lebanon | 10:00 AM
Join Butler County United Way for the Golf United Classic, the annual fundraiser to make a difference in our community. All proceeds support the Community Impact Fund, including youth opportunities, healthy communities and financial security in our community. Registration for a foursome includes two drink tickets per person, lunch, dinner, green and cart fees. Sign up online. BC-UnitedWay.org/golf-united-classic
Children
Adolescents
Adults
Excellent condition on cul-de-sac in desirable Trails of Four Bridges. Open first floor boasts 9-foot ceilings, kitchen with stainless steel appliances and 42-inch cabinets. 2-story great room with gas fireplace. Finished lower level complete with built-ins, wet bar, full bath, and game room area. Beautiful paver patio with fenced backyard. Recent updates include a new HVAC in 2023. New microwave and dishwasher in 2024. Move-in-ready. HOA includes fantastic amenities and swiming pool.
Spacious bi-level home in the heart of West Chester, Newer flooring and updated kitchen with white cabinets and stainless steel appliances and island. The primary suite with private bath,. Updated hall bathroom. The finished lower level with a convenient half bath. The deck overlooks the large, flat backyard that is fully fenced. Oversized garage offers ample storage options. Newer HVAC. All appliances, including the washer and dryer, are included with the sale.
“Tiffany was great to work with and kept us in the loop on different strategies on how to approach the market. We were impressed with Tiffany’s on line real estate presence and communication with other Realtors to get the word out about our home.” ~ Denies M
6572 Ashmont Pl