TRIBUTE TO WOMEN OF Excellence
History of the Tribute to Women of Excellence
Thirty-six years ago, the YWCA Greater Harrisburg and the corporate community of the Capital Region joined together to honor outstanding women in professional and executive positions for contributions to their companies in the first annual Tribute to Women in Industry event. In 2000, the YWCA and its corporate partners were joined by community and nonprofit groups to honor women of distinction, not only for their contributions to the workplace, but also for their contributions to the community. That year, the Tribute to Women in Industry grew in scope, and it was renamed the Tribute to Women of Excellence.
The distinctive title of “Woman of Excellence” is bestowed on women who are active in the community as mentors, role models and volunteers, serve on boards or committees of various nonprofits and organizations, demonstrate integrity, strength of character and leadership, raise and donate money to important causes, and embrace the mission and vision of the YWCA
In 2001, recognition of the contributions of women in our community expanded once again with the presentation of the first Legacy Award, given to an exemplary woman whose efforts set a standard for a lifetime commitment to the welfare of the Capital Region and its residents. In 2015, the Legacy Award was underwritten by PPO&S in honor of Carolyne L. Smith.
In 2007, the Emerging Leader Award was added to recognize the efforts of women under the age of 35 on behalf of the community, particularly with regard to mentoring younger girls. The award was underwritten by Penn State Harrisburg. The YWCA Greater Harrisburg renamed the Emerging Leader award in honor of Karen F. Snider.
Women of Excellence serve our community with distinction in many roles. They are corporate executives, entrepreneurs, educators, government and nonprofit professionals, and community volunteers
In whatever role they choose, Women of Excellence take on the challenge of leadership, excel in their efforts, and encourage and inspire others in our community.
2025 Program Agenda
WELCOME
Lisa Stokes, President, YWCA Greater Harrisburg Board of Directors
REMARKS
Mary Quinn, YWCA Greater Harrisburg CEO
CAROLYNE L. SMITH LEGACY AWARD PRESENTATION
Stephanie P. Bader
Gina M. Pupo, M.Ed., BSN, Carolyne L. Smith Legacy Award Recipient
KAREN F. SNIDER EMERGING LEADER AWARD PRESENTATION
Deborah R. Brady, Retiree, PA House of Representatives
Indira Ridgeway, Emerging Leader Award Recipient
TRIBUTE TO WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE CLASS OF 2025 AWARDS PRESENTATION
Alicia Richards, co-anchor, ABC27
CLOSING REMARKS
Mistress of Ceremonies
Alicia Richards, Co-Anchor/Reporter, ABC27 News
Alicia Richards co-anchors ABC27’s 5:00, 6:00 & 11:00 p.m. newscasts. She also does special reporting throughout the year. Most recently, Alicia is focused on the opioid crisis. In her weekly reports, she reveals not only how the epidemic destroys families, but on solutions.
When Alicia turned her attention to domestic violence, she won an Emmy award after revealing that Pennsylvania does not track how judges rule in these cases
Alicia spent a decade advocating for breast cancer awareness. Her Buddy Check 27 series won two Pennsylvania Association of Broadcaster awards and she and her mother appeared in PSA’s promoting the importance of early detection. In addition, Alicia was awarded a first-place Associated Press award for “Lori’s Story,” a moving 10-part series on a local woman’s determined battle against breast cancer.
Alicia takes pride in her extensive involvement with the Central Pennsylvania community through regular speaking engagements.
Travel is one of her primary interests. With her family, she has gone on safari in Africa, and has been to Egypt, Argentina and throughout Europe
Board of Directors
TheYWCAGreaterHarrisburgwouldliketoexpressour sinceregratitudetothededicatedprofessionalwomen whoserveonourAssociationBoard.Itisonlywiththe supportofcommunity-mindedindividualsand organizationsthatwecancontinuetofulfillthe immediateneedsandprovidecomprehensiveservices supportingwomen,childrenandmenastheyregaintheir self-esteemandindependence.
LisaStokes,President
ErinBurlew,ImmediatePastPresident
DonnaSchankweiler,VicePresident
VeraKanova,Treasurer
JessicaMeyers,Secretary
CateBarron
SheriBennington
BriannaCampbell
LitaHeckler
AutumnLang
BethPeiffer
StefaniePitcavageMekilo
EricaRawls
Dr.JyotiSharma
NatalieWech
Special Thanks
YWCA Junior Board
TheYWCAJuniorBoardismadeupofwomenages 21-35 whoarecommittedtoraisingawarenessand fundsinsupportoftheYW’smissionand operations.
StefaniePitcavageMekilo,President
ChelseaBesic,VicePresident
KatlynWilson,Secretary
JordanSallavanti,Treasurer
SarahBond
AshlynBooher
FaithFogelPensinger
CheyenneJohnson
JayneKatherman
AlisonHummel
SydneyMiller
JadeRobledo
EmilyRunyeon
SusannaSchmidt
ChristinaShull
AbigailSohonage
BreannSnyder
RachelSutton
RebeccaZelner
TRIBUTETOWOMENOFEXCELLENCEPLANNINGCOMMITTEE:
SusanHubley,Chair
AutumnLang,JessicaMeyers,Dr.JyotiSharma,SusannaSchmidt, KimGreenawalt,JenniferSands,MaryQuinn
HERSHEYENTERTAINMENT&RESORTSforsponsoringtonight’sreception
AMYSHADDAY&HERSHEYLODGESTAFFforsuperbservice
ALICIARICHARDS,ABC27,forpresentingtheawards
ERICEBELING,HARRISBURGMAGAZINE,forthefeaturearticleintheMarchissue ROGERBAUMGARTEN,ROGERTHATPHOTOGRAPHY,fortonight’sphotos KRAECREATIVE&TALENT,forproducingtonight’svideo
Thank You Sponsors
CarolyneL.SmithLegacyAward
GinaM.Pupo,M.Ed.,BSN,UPMCPinnacleMedicalGroup
KarenF.SniderEmergingLeaderAward
IndiraRidgeway, PAHouseofRepresentatives
CLASSOF2025
MaDonnaAwotwi, Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Harrisburg University
NicolBrown, Homeland Center and Homeland At Home
KatieClarke, LeTort Trust
NicoleConway, Vartan Group, Inc.
AlyciaGeary, Penn National Insurance
Dr.DawnGulletteCrosson,Psy.D., Central Pennsylvania Center for Trauma and Healing
JaneGurt, Milton Hershey School
LindaJohnston, Renewal by Andersen of Central PA
LillianMagaro, Capital Blue Cross
Merry-GraceS.Majors, Boys and Girls Club of Harrisburg
DebraMcClain, Beacon Clinic for Health and Hope
KendraMcGuire, McNees Wallace & Nurick
ErinMoore, Highmark Wholecare
AngelesPiceno-Garcia, Gloria’s Tax Services
StefaniePitcavageMekilo, Babst Calland
Clements & Zomnir, P.C.
DarlaRieg, The GIANT Company
JenniferRussell, PSECU
LynnStickler, Members 1st Federal Credit Union
HeatherStorm, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts
ErinSunday, F&M Trust
AshleyWalkowiak, Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women
JessicaWarren, Jannen Consulting, LLC
AllisonWilson, Boyer & Ritter
Karen F. Snider Emerging Leader Award
INDIRA RIDGEWAY
IndiraRidgeway’spassionforeducatingyoungpeopleabouthumantraffickingbeganinhighschool.On January23,2013,“IndiraRidgewayDay”wasdesignatedinrecognitionofhervolunteerworkandforbecoming thesecondpersoninthestate(hersisterwasthefirst)toearntheCongressionalAwardGoldMedalformore than400hoursofvolunteerwork.Incollege,shecontinuedraisingawareness,earningthePresidential VolunteerServiceGoldMedalfromPresidentBarackObamain2016.Herseniorcapstonefocusedonhuman traffickingasmoderndayslaveryandreceivedtophonors.ShegraduatedfromDelawareStateUniversitywith apoliticalsciencedegreeandminorsinCriminalJusticeandLawStudies.
IndirahasheldleadershiprolesinDeltaSigmaThetaSorority,Inc.,servingasEasternRegionalRepresentative andnowas1stVicePresidentoftheHarrisburgAlumnaeChapter.Shementorsyouthandadvocatesforwomen andchildren.In2023,shedraftedaresolutionprohibitingAirTagmisuse,whichwasunanimouslyadoptedby thesororityatanationallevel.
AstheyoungestexecutivedirectorinthePAHouseofRepresentatives,Indiraco-authoredHouseBill2298in January2022,introducedbyRep.JohnGalloway,tocriminalizeremotestalking.Thislegislationclosedalegal loopholeandgainednationalattention,influencingsimilarbillsinotherstates.InFebruary2022,thenPA AttorneyGeneralJoshShapiroandNewYorkAttorneyGeneralLetitiaJamesissuedconsumeralertsabout AirTagmisuse.Applerespondedbyupdatingitssoftwaretowarnusersofpotentialtrackingthreats.Reports revealedthatBluetoothdeviceswereincreasinglyusedasstalkingtoolsagainstwomenandchildren.
Indira’sadvocacycontinuesthroughresearch,publicspeaking,andcollaborationwithlawenforcement, attorneysgeneral,andelectedofficials.SheiscertifiedinTraffickinginPersons(CTIP)andhasdedicatedmore than11yearstoprotectingvulnerablecommunities.Herworkhasledtogreaterawarenessoftechnologyenabledthreatsandinfluencedprotectivetrackingmeasuresnationwide.
Throughherleadershipandactivism,IndiraRidgewayisshapingpoliciesthatsafeguardindividualsfrom exploitation.Whileshecannotundopastharms,sheismakingstridestoensuresaferfutures.
Carolyne L. Smith Legacy Award
GINA M. PUPO, M.Ed., BSN
GinaPupo,theseniordirectorofclinicaloperationsatUPMCPinnacleMedicalGrouphasdevotedmorethan 40yearstoadvancinghealthcareintheCapitalRegionthroughinnovation,leadership,andaprofound commitmenttoservingvulnerablepopulations.Herworkdemonstratesanunwaveringdedicationto empoweringindividualsandimprovingaccesstocareforall.Oneofhermostnotableaccomplishmentsis thecreationoftheUPMCCertifiedClinicalMedicalAssistantAcademy,aprogramdesignedtoremove barrierstocareeradvancementinhealthcare.ThisinnovativeinitiativeprovidesUPMCemployeeswithapaid pathwaytocertificationwhilemaintainingfull-timeemploymentandbenefits.Theprogramfosterseconomic empowermentandself-determination,enablingindividualstobuildrewardingcareersinhealthcareand improvingthequalityofcareintheCapitalRegion.
Throughouthercareer,Ginahasbeenatirelessadvocateforunderservedcommunities.Sheplayedapivotal roleinlaunchingtheNurse-FamilyPartnershipprogramforDauphinandFranklincounties,securingcritical fundingtosupportlow-income,first-timemothers.Herleadershipinthisprogramprovidedthesemothers withnursehomevisitationservices,educationandresources,empoweringthemtobuildsustainablefutures.
Gina’scompassionandvisionalsoextendstootherprogramssuchas“CribsforKids,”whoseaimistoreduce infantmortality.ShehasalsosecuredfundingforinitiativeslikePinnacleHealth’sLeadMobiletoprovide mobileleadscreeningtounderservedcommunities.
Gina’spassionforpublichealthismatchedbyhercommitmenttoeducatingandmentoringothers.Asan advisortothePennsylvaniaDepartmentofHealth’sLeadPoisoningPreventionProgramandthe HealthyHomesInitiative,Ginahashelpeddevelopeducationalmaterialsandcommunityoutreachprograms toaddresspressinghealthissues.
Beyondherprofessionalaccomplishments,Ginahasdemonstratedasteadfastcommitmenttovolunteerism andcivicengagement.Shehasservedonnumerouscommitteesandcontributedtoprojectsaimedat breakingdownbarrierstohealthcareandimprovethewell-beingofthecommunity.Gina’sleadershipand self-determinationinspirethosearoundhertostriveforexcellencewhileremainingdeeplygroundedinthe valuesofempathy,inclusionandservice.
Join us as we raise money for our 30-day emergency shelter, which provides safe housing for women and children who are homeless or escaping abuse. This year, our Cards with Heart feature scenic photography from local photographer Jeanne Farinelli, who we will honor at the reception. Cards are available for purchase at TWE and will be available at the reception.
Buy your tickets today! $25 per person, includes one drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres Visit CardsWithHeart.givesmart.com or scan the QR Code. Sponsorships are available.
2025 Honorees
MaDONNA AWOTWI
NICOL BROWN
MaDonnaAwotwiistheprogramcoordinatoratHarrisburgUniversity’sCenterforInnovation andEntrepreneurship(CIE),whereshesupportsentrepreneursandstartupswithstrategic resources,mentorship,andhands-onexperience Sheoverseesinitiativesconnecting entrepreneurswithindustryleadersandorganizesworkshopstofosterbusinesssuccess Asan entrepreneurherself,sheunderstandsthededicationneededtothriveandworkstirelesslyto supportothersontheirjourney
BeyondherroleatCIE,MaDonnaservesasthedirectorofcommunicationsattheAfrican AmericanChamberofCommerceofCentralPAandhasworkedwithyouththroughtheYMCA andNAACPACT-SOprogram Passionateaboutcommunitywork,sheremainsdeeplyengagedin upliftingothers Since2022,shehascollaboratedwithM&TBankontheCapitalRegion MulticulturalSmallBusinessInnovationLab,guidingparticipantsfrominceptiontograduation withamixofsupportandtoughlove-ensuringgrowththroughhonestfeedbackandunwavering commitment.
NicolBrownisadedicatedadvocateforempowerment,educationandcommunityservice Raisedbyhergrandparentsandaunt,sheovercamechildhoodtraumathroughtheirunwavering support Shetransformedadversityintostrength,usingeducationasatoolforpersonaland professionalgrowth
Withamaster’sinhumanresourcemanagement,Nicolbuiltacareerinseniorcare,becominga licensednursinghomeadministrator Shecurrentlyservesasthedirectorofhumanresources andcorporatecomplianceattheHomelandCenter/HomelandAtHome Passionateabout advocacy,shechampionscareeradvancementforcertifiednursingassistants,particularly womenfromdiversebackgrounds.ShefoundedtheHomelandCNAAcademy,providingcareer pathwaysinhealthcare.Acertifiedmediatorandconflicttrainer,sheempowersothersto navigatechallengeseffectively.Outsideofwork,Nicolhasheldleadershiprolesfororganizations promotingcivilrightsandsocialjustice.Sheactivelymentorswomen,volunteersatsheltersand supportsfundraisers.Throughherleadership,advocacyandmentorship,Nicolcontinuestomake alastingimpactonindividualsandcommunities,fosteringempowerment,inclusionand opportunityforthoseinneed.
KatieClarkeisthepresidentandCEOofLeTortTrust,aprivatetrustcompanyoffering comprehensive401(k)andretirementplanservicesforbusinesses,aswellaswealthmanagement andtrustservicesforfamilies.Inthisrole,sheoverseestheorganization’sstrategicdirection, operationsandcommunityengagementefforts.Apassionateadvocateforfinancialliteracy, Katiehascommittedhercareertofosteringeducation,entrepreneurialdevelopmentand communityservicethroughoutCentralPA
Underherleadership,LeTortTrusthasbecomeamodelforintegratingbusinesssuccesswith philanthropy Katiebelievesacompany’spurposegoesbeyondprofit,advocatingforcommunity serviceasanintegralpartofthebusinessmodel In2012,shehelpedestablishtheLeTortTrust Foundation,formalizingthecompany’scommitmenttogivingbydonating5%ofannualprofits toinitiativesthatstrengthentheregion TheFoundationsupportsfinancialliteracyand educationalopportunities,contributingtoorganizationslikeJuniorAchievementand PennsylvaniaFreeEnterpriseWeek
Katieisdeeplyinvolvedincommunityorganizations,currentlyservingontheBoardofDirectors forCREDCandtheUnitedWayFoundation.Shementorsherteam,fostersvolunteerismand empowersheremployeestoadvocateforcausestheycareabout,creatinglastingpositive change.
KATIE CLARKE
NICOLE CONWAY
DR. DAWN GULLETTE CROSSON
NicoleConwayisadedicatedleadercommittedtoimprovinghercommunity.ANotreDame graduatewithabachelor’singovernmentandaJD,shebeganhercareeratBuchanan,Ingersoll& RooneybeforebecomingexecutivevicepresidentandgeneralcounselatVartanGroup,Inc.Since 2003,shehasactivelyservednon-profits,includingaspastpresidentoftheNotreDameClubof HarrisburgandtheHarrisburgYoungProfessionals.
Nicole’sleadershipspansarts,educationandhealth,withboardrolesatJumpStreet,Harrisburg Academy,HarrisburgUniversityandtheLeukemia&LymphomaSociety.Sherecently concluded17yearswithCommunitiesinSchoolsofPennsylvaniaandcontinuesservingat SusquehannaArtMuseumandtheWhitakerCenterforScienceandtheArts
Nicoleisnotjustaboardmember-sheisanengaged,reliableleaderwhoseintegrityandpassion inspireothers Hercommitmenttoservice,governanceandmentorshiphasmadealastingimpact ontheCentralPAregion
AlyciaGearyistheenterpriseriskmanageratPennNationalInsurance,whereshehasworked since2014.With18yearsintheinsuranceindustry,sheisalsodeeplycommittedtovolunteering,a valueshelearnedearlywhilehelpingatanursinghome.Shenowsharesthispassionwithher children,volunteeringwiththematCaitlin’sSmilesandotherlocalorganizations.
For12years,AlyciahasbeenactivewiththeUnitedWayoftheCapitalRegion,servingonthe CoordinatorCouncilandleadingworkplacecampaigns.Underherleadership,PennNational Insurance’scampaignhasgrowninparticipationanddonations Shealsotakespartineventslike DayofCaringandtheWomen’sLeadershipNetwork
BeyondtheUnitedWay,AlyciavolunteerswithorganizationslikeBethesdaMission,theCentral PennsylvaniaFoodBankandTheSalvationArmy Sheenjoysmeetingnewpeopleandseeing theimpactofgivingback Heradvice,“Justdoit Evenashorttimecommitmentcanmakeahuge difference”
Byengagingherchildreninvolunteering,Alyciahopestoinstillcompassionandgenerosityinthe nextgeneration.Shealsoservesasarolemodelinherchildren’sschoolsandthePTO,believing thatevensmallactionscancreatealastingimpact.
Dr.DawnGulletteCrosson,Psy.D.,istheexecutiveclinicaldirectoroftheCentralPennsylvania CenterforTraumaandHealing,aprogramoftheHarrisburgAreaLearningAcademy(HALA) A licensedpsychologistandcertifiedtrauma-focusedcognitivebehavioraltherapist,shehasmore than29yearsofexperienceinmentalhealth In2015,shewastheamongtheleaderswho establishedHALA,andin2021,sheco-foundedPennsylvania’sfirstTraumaRecoveryCenter34thinthenation-providingcriticalsupporttothousandsofPennsylvanians
HarrisburghasahigherrateoftraumapercapitathanPhiladelphia,with1in50residentsaffected byviolentcrimeortraumaticevents.Dr.Crossonhasdedicatedhercareertoensuringindividuals andfamiliesreceivecompassionate,trauma-informedcarewithoutfinancialbarriers.Underher leadership,theCenterhasexpandeditsservices,offeringspecializedsupportgroupsand educationalprograms. Asaboldadvocatefortrauma-informedcare,Dr.Crossonhasworked tirelesslytocreateasafespaceforhealing.Herdedicationhastransformedlives,bridginggapsin mentalhealthcareandprovidinghopeforthosefacinglife-alteringtraumainCentralPA.
ALYCIA GEARY
About the Y C
The YWCA Greater Harrisburg has been serving the needs of the community for more than 130 years. Today, our programs are empowering women and transforming the lives of more than 10,000 individuals each year through our direct services. Our programs include housing services for homeless women and children; violence intervention and prevention programs for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking; free civil legal services for victims; supervised visitation for families; Pre-K Counts and afterschool programs for children; supported employment programs; and housing and employment services for veterans.
2025 Honorees
JANE GURT
FromshapingyoungmindsasavideocommunicationsteacheratMiltonHersheySchoolto mentoringstudentsandfamilies,JaneGurt hasalwaysledwithcharacter,convictionanda heartforservice.Evenaftersteppingdownfromteaching,sheremaineddeeplyinvolved, ensuringstudentshadthesupportandopportunitiestheyneededtothrive.
Herpassionledhertohonortheoften-overlookedlegacyofCatherineHershey,co-founderof MHS.JanecreatedHugsandKissesfromCatherine,aprogramthatinstillsconfidence, kindness,andserviceinstudentswhilecelebratingthecontributionsoffemalestaff.Thanksto herdedication,CatherineHershey’simpactisremembered,andherlegacycontinuestoinspire.
Jane’scommitmenttoMHSandthecommunityisremarkable.Herleadership,advocacyand generosityembodytheveryvaluessheworkstoinstillinothers MiltonandCatherineHershey wouldundoubtedlybeproud.
LindaJohnston,chiefcultureofficerforRenewalbyAndersenofCentralPA,isavisionary leaderdedicatedtoexcellenceandcommunityimpact.Underherguidance,RbAhasflourished, recognizedforexceptionalproducts,customerserviceandphilanthropy.
Astheforcebehind“RenewalCares,”Lindadrivesmeaningfulinitiativessupportingfamilies, veterans,youthandsustainability.Herleadershiphasearnednationalrecognition,inspiringRbA affiliatesacrossthecountry.Herunwaveringcommitmentextendstohungerprevention, humantraffickingawareness,veteransupport,fostercare,scholarshipsandmore
Lindaspearheadsprogramslike“Back2SchoolDrive4Success,”Big33FootballClassic sponsorship,andAEDdonations,positivelyimpactingcountlesslives Recentlyhonoredwiththe LifetimeAchievementAwardandnamedaWomanofInfluence,sheexemplifiesexcellenceand generosity Throughhertirelessdedication,Lindafostersacultureofgiving,inspiringbusinesses tocontributetoastronger,morecompassionateCentralPA
LillianMagaroisaseniortechnicalbusinessanalystatCapitalBlueCross,amother, grandmotheranddevotedcommunityvolunteer.
LillianhasbeenadedicatedvolunteerfortheAmericanCancerSocietyfor16years.Since 2011,shehasservedascaptainforCapital’s“TeamBlue”fortheRelayforLife Hershey/Harrisburg.Lastyear,underLillian’sleadership,TeamBlueraisedmorethan$22,000 towardthefightagainstcancer.Foryears,theteamhasconsistentlyheldthetitleof“Top FundraisingTeam”fortheRelayforLife.
Butthat’snotallLilliandoesfortheAmericanCancerSociety.Throughouttheyear,shealso leadsotherfundraisersfortheorganizationincludingtheTeamBlueGolfTournament,a homemadeEastereggsale,poinsettiaandwreathsale,holidayshirtsaleandadaffodil/tulip sale ShehasalsoservedasthecaptainfortheCapitalStridesteam
InadditiontoherworkwiththeAmericanCancerSociety,Lillianhasalsovolunteeredforthe CentralPennsylvaniaFoodBank,HealthyStepsDiaperBankandtheSalvationArmy She hasbeentheteamcaptainfortheAmericanHeartAssociationHeartWalk Sheisclearly passionateaboutgivingbackandisalwayswillingtojumpinandhelpinwhateverwayis needed
LILLIAN MAGARO
LINDA JOHNSTON
2025 Honorees
MERRY-GRACE MAJORS
Merry-GraceMajorshasbeeninvolvedwiththeBoysandGirlsClubofHarrisburgsince2021, servingasaboardmember,andcurrentlychairingtheHumanResourcesCommitteeandserving asboardsecretary.Withmorethan30yearsofexperienceinoperations,humanresources, diversityandcomplianceinPennsylvaniastategovernment,Merry-Gracehashelpedenhance policies,staffdevelopment,andsecurednewsponsorshipsthroughcommunityconnections.
AstheFounderandCEOoftheNASHGroup,shementorsyoungmothers Shealsoleadsthe HarrisburgAlumnaeChapterofDeltaSigmaThetaSorority,Inc,andhasvolunteeredwiththe HarrisburgSchoolDistrictformorethan15years
Merry-Graceservesonseveralboards,includingtheCivicClubofHarrisburg,HarrisburgFair HousingCouncilandTheSickleCellCouncilofSouth-CentralPA Sheisalsoaco-mentorat JourneyThroughtheHeartofGod(BlossombyBeing)andavolunteeratherchurch Sheisthe proudmotheroffouradultsonsandenjoystravelingtoexperiencenewcultures
DebraMcClainistheexecutivedirectoroftheBeaconClinicforHealthandHope,which providesfreeprimarycaretouninsuredresidentsintheHarrisburgarea Shejoinedtheclinicin 2018,bringingmorethanthreedecadesofexperienceininsuranceandfinancialservices Deb hashelpedgrowtheclinicandhasalsohelpeditrelocatetoanewfacility.
HercommunityinvolvementincludesservingontheBoardofDirectorsfortheCentralPAGay& LesbianChamberofCommerce(nowKeystoneBusinessAlliance)from2008-2014andasa SupplierDiversityPanelistfortheNationalGay&LesbianChamberofCommerce.Shehasalso workedwithGovernorWolf’sAdvisoryCouncilforEnergy,BusinessandEconomicDevelopment. ShecurrentlyservesasboardpresidentforthePennsylvaniaCharitableHealthcareCoalition andsitsonnursingadvisorycommitteesatMessiahUniversityandYorkCollege.
Debhascoordinatedahomelessministry,servedonvarioushealthcarecommittees,andworks asacertifiedMedicarerepresentative.Inhersparetime,sheparticipatesinpettherapywithher wifeanddogattheHarrisburgInternationalAirport.Sheisamotherandgrandmotherand enjoyshobbieslikesingingandcrocheting.
KENDRA
KendraMcGuireofMcNeesWallace&Nurick,hasmorethan35yearsofexperienceinfiduciary litigation.Sheisahighlyrespectedattorneyspecializingintrusts,estates,powersofattorney, andguardianships.Hermeticulousapproachensuresthatherclients’rightsandinterestsare alwaysprotected.KendraisrenownedforherexpertiseinPennsylvania’scomplexlegalsystem.
Beyondherlegalwork,Kendraisaleaderinshapingestateadministrationandguardianshiplaw, servingasthechairoftheStateOrphans’CourtRulesCommitteeandasamemberofthe PennsylvaniaSupremeCourt’sAdvisoryCouncilonElderJustice Herpassionforsocial justiceisdemonstratedthroughheractiveinvolvementwiththeEconomicDevelopment CorporationofLancaster,wheresheworksonissuesofdiversity,equityandinclusion
Kendraisalsoadedicatedmentor,guidingjuniorattorneysandempoweringthemtoreachtheir fullpotential Herimpactextendsfarbeyondthecourtroom,andshehasbeenrecognizedby BestLawyers®,SuperLawyers®andMartindale-Hubbell Shehasalsobeenrecognizedbythe Central Pennsylvania Business Journal asaWomenofInfluence,andhasbeendesignatedasa topattorneyby Philadelphia Magazine.
2025 Honorees
ERIN MOORE
ANGELES PICENOGARCIA
STEFANIE
ErinMooreisadedicatedcommunityleaderandhealthequityadvocate,focusingonthesocial determinantsofhealththatimpactmarginalizedcommunities,especiallygirlsandyoung womenofcolor.AsseniorcommunityengagementspecialistatHighmarkWholecare,she collaborateswithlocalorganizationsandchurchestoaddresshealthdisparitiesandpromote accesstocare
DuringtheCOVID-19pandemic,Erinhelpedlaunchmobilehealthunitstoprovideessential services,includingvaccinations,healthscreeningsandwellnessworkshops Shehasalsoled seniorwalkingprogramsandhealthfairs,partneredwithofficialsonhealthinitiatives,and ensuredfundingsupportsgrassrootsorganizations
Erin’sadvocacyextendstohealthliteracy,mentalwellnessandself-advocacy,includingan awarenessseriesonhealthissuesincludingdiabetes,highbloodpressureandmentalhealthin BlackandBrowncommunities.Withabackgroundinsocialworkandpublichealth,Erinpushes forsystemicchangeandservesasamentortothenextgenerationofleaders.Sheisinvolved withtheNationalCoalitionof100BlackWomenandtheLatinoConnectionFoundation.
AngelesPiceno-Garcia,originallyfromMichoacan,Mexico,movedtoHarrisburg,PAin2015 withherfamilytopursuetheAmericanDream.AftergraduatingfromHarrisburgHighSchoolin 2021,shebalancedwork,motherhoodandeducation,earningadegreefromHarrisburgArea CommunityCollege.Sheiscurrentlypursuingabachelor’sinBusinessAdministrationfrom PennStateHarrisburg.
InMay2021,AngelesjoinedtheAmericanLiteracyCorporationasprogramcoordinatorfor LeyendoenVivo365,aSpanishreadinginitiative.Shecoordinatescommunityeventssuchas theLatinoReadingandHispanicHeritageFestivals.Sheisa2020graduateoftheLatino HispanicAmericanCommunityCenter’sLeadershipInstituteStarTrainingOpportunities (LISTO).ShealsoworkedattheLHACC,whereshesupportedfamiliesinHarrisburg’sSouth AllisonHillsection.ShecurrentlyworksforGloria’sTaxServices. Angelesaspirestoownabusinessandcontinueupliftinghercommunity.
StefaniePitcavageMekiloisanassociateattorneyatBabstCallandwheresheservesonthe organization’sWomen’sInitiativeCommittee,whichstrivestopromoteinclusivityandequal opportunitiesforwomenattorneysbothwithinthefirmandthroughoutthebroaderlegal community
StefaniecurrentlyservesastheYWCA’sJuniorBoardpresidentandsitsontheAssociation Board,helpingtoadvancethemissionofeliminatingracismandempoweringwomen.She coordinatesandvolunteersforYWCAevents,generatingcrucialsupportforitsprograms.Sheis alsoamemberofthePennsylvaniaChapterofMomsDemandActionforGunSensein America,agrassrootsmovementofAmericansfightingforcommon-sensegunlawsandpublic safetymeasurestoprotectcommunities.ShevolunteerswiththeGunSenseActionNetwork andVoProPros,anall-volunteerorganizationcommittedtoprotectingtherighttovoteand counteringvote-suppressionefforts.
Shealsodonateshertimetothelegalcommunity.Sheispresident-electoftheFederalBar Association’sMiddleDistrictofPAChapter.Shehelpedorganizethe2024Bench/Bar conference,amulti-dayconferenceattendedbymorethan130attorneysandjudges.
DARLA RIEG
DarlaRiegisthedirectorofcommercialplanningatTheGIANTCompany.Sincejoiningin2011, shehasledmerchandisingandpromotionplanningwhiledrivingwellbeinginitiativestohelp customerslivehealthierlives.Previously,asthedirectorofcategorymanagement,sheexpanded thecompany’sGlobalFlavorsMarketplaceandmanagedkeyproductcategoriesacross193 stores.
Passionateaboutgivingback,Darlaandherteamhavevolunteeredextensively,supportinglocal foodbanksanddonationdrives ShealsoservesonGIANT’sTakeCareFundpanel,aidingteam membersinneed
Anadvocateforgrowthandsustainability,shewasaPlanetBeeFoundationtrusteeandhelped educatethousandsonbeeconservation Recognizedasa Progressive Grocer TopWomenin Grocerywinner,Darlaisaninspiringleader
Outsideofwork,DarlahassupportedyouthsportsprogramsandstartedDucksUnlimited, YellowBreechesChapter,toconserve,restoreandmanagewetlandsandotherhabitatsfor waterfowl.
JENNIFER RUSSELL
JenniferRussellisdirectorofanalyticsandresearchatPSECU.Sincejoiningin2020,shehasleda teamofanalystsandresearchers,usingdatatoenhancememberexperiencesanddrivestrategic decision-making.
Herleadershipphilosophyemphasizescollaboration,inclusivityandimpact.Sheactivelymentors adiversegroupoffutureleadersandadvocatesforequitythroughinitiativesliketheTechnology CouncilofCentralPennsylvania’sWomeninTechmentorshipprogram.AsamemberofABLE, PSECU’semployeeresourcegroupforindividualswithdisabilities,shefostersaninclusive workplace.
BeyondPSECU,JenengagesinglobalforumssuchasWomeninAnalytics,TheMarketResearch Event,andWomeninResearch,championingdata-drivenstrategiesanddiversity Shealso continuestocontributetoworkforcedevelopmentthroughHarrisburgUniversity’sDigital TransformationCertificateProgram Throughherwork,shecontinuestobreakbarriers,amplify underrepresentedvoicesandinspireacultureofgrowth
LynnSticklerisvicepresidentofrelationshipmanagementfortheCumberlandCountymarketof Members1stFederalCreditUnion Sheleadsbusinessdevelopmentefforts,ensuringmembers receivefinancialtoolsandeducationwhiledeliveringtop-tierservice.
Astrongadvocateforfinancialeducation,Lynnisenteringherthirdyearleadingaworkshopin partnershipwithTrueColorsforSteelton-HighspireHighSchoolstudents.Theprogramexplores careerandeducationpaths,highlightingdebt-freeopportunitiesthroughemployerslikeMembers 1st.Thisyear,sheexpandedtheinitiativetothreeadditionalhighschools.
Lynnalsomentorsassociationswithinthecreditunion,supportingnewhiresandfostering professionalgrowth.BeyondMembers1st,sheactivelyfundraises,volunteers,andcollaborates withlocalbusinessesandnonprofits,focusingonsmallbusinessgrowthandwomen-focused initiatives.SheservesontheboardofD.R.E.A.M.Partnership,workingtoexpandpost-secondary opportunitiesforstudentswithintellectualdisabilities.Additionally,sheholdsleadershiprolesat theWestShoreChamberofCommerce,shapingprogramsthatdriveprofessionaldevelopment.
LYNN STICKLER
Congratulations to our Matriarch, Merry-Grace Samuel Majors
on being selected as a member of the Class of 2025 for the YWCA’s Tribute to Women of Excellence, recognizing your dedication to the work you do at the Boys and Girls Club, Harrisburg School District, and the community. Your work and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and we are so proud of you!
Love, Your Family
Westburn, Clarissa, Wyatt, Olivia, Garrett, Josiah, Erich, Christina, Bryan, Andre, Shatera, Hunter, Enzo, Cecelia, Rich, Amare, Richlynn, Celene, Smoot, David
“Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude.” ~ Ralph Marston
2025 Honorees
HEATHER STORM
ERIN SUNDAY
ASHLEY WALKOWIAK
HeatherStormistheassistantgeneralmanager,entertainmentatHersheyEntertainment& ResortsCompany(HE&R),wheresheoverseesHersheyparkStadium,GIANTCenterandHershey Theater.SincejoiningHE&Rin2015,shehasbeeninstrumentalinbringingworld-class entertainmenttoHershey,includingtopartistsandshowslikeHamilton,JustinTimberlake,P!nk andPostMalone.Underherleadership,thesevenueshaverankedamongthebestintheworldby Pollstar Magazine.
HeathersupportsHE&R’smissiontobenefitMiltonHersheySchool(MHS),mentoringstudents andcoordinatingmajorschoolevents,includingtheannualOpeningofSchoolAssemblyand commencementceremonies.Shealsofacilitatesgraduationsforlocalschoolsandcollegesatthe GIANTCenter.
Dedicatedtofosteringaninclusiveworkplace,HeatherchairstheHE&RUnityandEquality EmployeeResourceGroupandservesonitsDE&ICouncil,shapinginitiativesthatpromote belongingandequity ShealsositsontheboardforTHRIVEforLife,supportingcancercare programsatthePennStateCancerInstitute
Formorethan25years,ErinSundayhasworkedcloselywithhigh-net-worthclientsandfamilies withspecialneedslovedones.ShejoinedF&MTrustin2020after15yearsatWellsFargoasa specialneedsadvisor.In2023,shewaspromotedtoVPandregionalwealthmanagerwhereshe prioritizescompassion,communicationandthoughtfulfinancialplanning,helpingfamilies developLife(Care),Financial,andEstatePlanswhileconsideringgovernmentbenefits.Sheholds CTFA,NationalSocialSecurityAdvisor,andAccreditedTrustandFinancialAdvisorcertifications.
Activelyengagedinhercommunity,Erinservesonmultipleboards,volunteerswithThe SalvationArmy,andsupportsorganizationsliketheAmericanRedCross,UnitedWay,and Rotary.Notably,sheco-ledabreastcancerfundraisingcampaign,raisingmorethan$60,000and chairedtheRotary’s2024MentalAwarenessProject Erin’sdedicationextendsbeyondhercareer, asshecontinuallyseeksopportunitiestogivebackthroughvolunteerismandfinancial contributions
AshleyWalkowiak’slifelongdedicationtocommunityserviceandadvocacyistrulyinspiring From servingasamemberoftheYWCAJuniorBoardfrom2008-2011,toservingasasexualassaultand domesticviolencecounselor,herpassionforsupportingvulnerablecommunitieshasonlygrown stronger
Ashleyhasplayedacrucialroleinadvancingvictims’rights,restorativejusticeandantidiscriminationacrossPennsylvania In2018,shebecamespecialassistanttotheCommonwealth VictimAdvocate,supportingvictimsofhigh-profilecases.ShelaterjoinedthePAHumanRelations Commission,revampingmediationservicesandshapingtrauma-informedpolicies.Asthe executivepolicydirectoratthePADepartmentofDrugandAlcoholPrograms,shechampioned trauma-informedpoliciesthatmadearealdifference.InFebruary2025,shejoinedtheGovernor’s AdvisoryCommissiononWomenasitsnewexecutivedirector,advisingGovernorShapiroon policiesandprogramsaffectingthewomenoftheCommonwealth.
AshleyalsochairstheCumberlandCountyCommissionforWomenandservesontheChildren’s AdvocacyCentersofPennsylvaniaBoard.Sheisapublishedauthorandcontinuestopromote healingthroughadvocacyandthearts.
JESSICA WARREN
JessicaWarrenisthechiefcatalystforJannenConsultingandacommunicationsstrategist knownforherenthusiasm,relationalapproach,anddedicationtoempoweringothers.Drivenby thebeliefthatsomeonesawpotentialinher,shestrivesto“payitforward”byinspiring meaningfulchange Asshesays,“everypersonistheirownperson,”andsheemphasizes mentorshiptohelpindividualsflourish
Shehasmorethantwodecadesofexperienceineducation,advocatingforclear,intentional messaging,storytellingandinclusiveenvironmentswhereeveryonecancontributetheirtalents Herrelationalapproachhasmadeherarespectedmentorandcommunityleader
Jessicahasservedonnumerousboardsandcommittees,includingtheAmericanFoundation forSuicidePrevention,AmericanMarketingAssociation,GirlsontheRun,andtheCapital AreaScienceandEngineeringFair.Herleadershipisrootedininclusivityandmentorship, fosteringopportunitiesforotherstogrow. Colleaguespraiseherdedicationtopromoting economicempowerment,equityandexcellenceinthecommunity.
ALLISON
AllisonWilsondemonstratesanunwaveringcommitmenttobothherprofessionandthe community.AsamanageratBoyer&Ritter,sheexcelsinaudit,accounting,andadvisory services,specializinginthenonprofitandmanufacturingsectors.Herleadershipextendsbeyond herprofessionaldutiesasshementorscolleaguesandpromotescommunityengagement.
Allisonactivelycontributestothecommunitythroughhervolunteerwork.Shehasservedasa pre-reviewerfortheUnitedWayoftheCapitalRegion’sGrantReviewCommitteeforthreeyears, helpingallocatefundstolocalorganizations.SheisalsoaboardmemberofTriCounty CommunityAction,whereshecontributestostrategicplanningandcommunityvolunteerevents addressingpoverty,housingandeducation.
A2023graduateofLeadershipCumberland,Allisonhasfurtherhonedherleadershipskillsand collaborateswithothercommunityleaderstodrivepositivechange.Hervolunteerwork,which spansfromhighschooltoherprofessionalcareer,demonstratesherlifelongdedicationtoservice Allison’scommitmenttobalancingherprofessionalandcommunityworkmakesheratruerole model
PurseAuction
Celebrating our Honorees
TheTributetoWomenofExcellenceClassof2025isfullofwonderful,accomplishedwomendoingamazingthingsinour community.Buttheirhobbiesandtalentsgowaybeyondtheirjobsandvolunteerwork. Herearesomecoolfactsabout eachofthem....aswellaspicturesfromtheirlives,travelandhobbies.
MaDonna is a professional spoken word artist and published author.
Nicol ziplined in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta
Alycia is uniquely skilled in woodworking
Katie's destina Costa
Dawn would love to teach everyone to cook!
Nicole would like to teach empathy to foster mindfulness and strengthen communities.
Jane loves to play tennis,
If she had the chance, Linda would like to have had dinner with President Ronald Reagan
One of Lillian's passions is fundraising for the American Cancer Society
If Merry-Grace could have dinner with anyone, it would be Mary McCleod Bethune
Kendra loves Jane Austen novels, believing she transcended
Debra volunteered with a homeless ministry, shopping for clothes for homeless individuals. time with her work
Gina enjoys knitting, crocheting & baking.
Erin M. is a huge basketball fan!
Jen dreams of sleeping in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights
Angeles loves to read and wants to write children's books
Indira sees "meekness" as an inner strength and ability to control emotions
Erin S. would love to have dinner with Amelia Earhart.
Lynn would love to teach everyone the skill of relationship building
Ashley is a published poet.
Allison wants to see all 50 states before she's 50.
Stefanie loves to read Pride and Prejudice and takes new lessons
from it with each read.
Darla's favorite book is Nelson Mandela's autobiography
Heather wants to visit Alberta, Canada
Jessica enjoys spending time in the Finger Lakes
There’sstilltimetoparticipateinthe5thAnnual21DayRacialEquityandSocialJusticeChallenge,starting Monday,March31,2025.Thisactivityfocusesontheimpactracialandsocialinjusticesmakeonourcommunity, helpusconnectwithoneanother,andidentifywaystodismantleracismandotherformsofdiscrimination.This year’stopicsincludemisinformation/disinformation,interpersonalracism,theAmericanDream,andthe racializationofcrime.
ParticipantswillreceivedailyemailsweekdaysfromMarch31-April28 witharticlestoread,videostowatch, reflectionandactionitems.TheinformationineachemailhasbeencarefullycuratedbytheYWCAUSAandwe encouragegroupparticipantstomeetandengageinmeaningfuldialogueoneachtopic.
ThisApril,wealsoinviteourcommunitytoparticipatevirtuallyintheAnnualRaceAgainstRacism,amissiondriveneventpromotingawarenessofracisminourcommunity,andraisingcriticalfundstosupportourracial justiceprograms Participantscanholdtheirownraceatanytimeduringthe21DayChallenge,buttypically theseeventshavebeenheldonthelastSaturdayofApril.
Formoreinformationonthechallenge,sponsorships,ortosignupforthe21DayRacialEquityandSocial JusticeChallenge,visitYWChallenge25.givesmart.comorscantheQRCodebelow.Questionscanalsobe emailedtojsands@ywcahbg.org
First, it was home to a Civil War colonel.
Then it became a Catholic orphanage.
Today...it’s our home.
Beyond its historical and architectural value, this building is a powerful symbol of the work that has been done -- and continues to be done by the YWCA Greater Harrisburg. Over the course of 165 years, this building has served to uplift and support women, men and families in our society It has seen the community evolve, and it remains a vital space where growth, learning, and empowerment continue to take place.
The building was originally the home of Civil War Colonel John Brandt and then transformed into a girls’ orphanage. Today, you know this building as the YWCA, where we continue the legacy of serving as a cornerstone of support, advocacy, and empowerment in our community.
It has been nearly 30 years since the YWCA renovated the abandoned Sylvan Heights Mansion. In that time, it has been a sanctuary for those in need, providing shelter, guidance and care to generations of women, men and families. We must now look to sustaining the investment made by so many in our community in order to support the future of countless women and families who rely on the services we offer.
Construction on a new wing for the YWCA in the mid-1990's
