YWCA Tribute to Women

#TheFutureIsFemale: The YWCA’s 35th annual Tribute to Women luncheon and awards ceremony welcomed more than 500 guests to the Westin Convention Center, Downtown, on Thursday afternoon. And while the event always inspires and encourages the next generation of leaders to step forward, the work of eliminating sexism and racism seemed more relevant than ever this year. Or, at least that was the sentiment gathered while talking with some of this year’s awardees. “The inclusive mission of the YWCA is so necessary and important, now more than ever,” said education awardee Audrey Murrell, associate dean at the University of Pittsburgh. “We need to advocate for women and remove barriers to help develop diverse leaders from all backgrounds.” And how are diversity and inclusion related? “Diversity is the ‘what’ and inclusion is the ‘how.’ Diversity is having access and representation, a seat at the table. Inclusion is the implementation.”

#QuotableMoment: “Empowerment is about creating access and opportunity and we need more organizations looking at women as leaders for the future,” said young leader awardee Marita Bradley, chief of staff for the office of City Councilman Ricky Burgess.

#SEENAwardees: Business & Professional Services: Nancy Rackoff of Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC; Civic & Community: Anne Lewis, board chair and co-owner of Oxford Development Co.; Health & Human Services: the Rev. Eileen O. Smith, a registered nurse and pastor at Mt. Zion Baptist Church; Science & Technology: Rebecca Stiger, refinish research manager at PPG Industries. Also #SEEN: CEO of the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Magdeline Jensen, Nancy Rackoff, Sylvia Fields, Susie Shipley, Cheryl Kubelick, Shakita Trigg, Zauyah Waite, Rev. Jackie Lyde, Monique McIntosh, Beth Heeb and Chaz Kellen.