Issuu

Wo me n’s Ini ti at ive

Celebration Luncheon Tuesday, May 17, 2022 St. Elizabeth Training & Education Center Erlanger, Kentucky

Title Sponsor

St. Elizabeth is proud to recognize our very own Kathy Jennings, being honored with the Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award. We thank all of today's honorees for their contributions in making Northern Kentucky an even better place to live. stelizabeth.com

Thank you for joining us today to celebrate Northern Kentucky’s Outstanding Women. To see photos and learn more about the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky awards program and its history, or nominate an outstanding woman for the 2023 awards , please visit our website at:

www.NKYChamber.com/OWNK

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

OUR HISTORY The Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards celebrates its 38th year of honoring women who exemplify notable achievements; outstanding service in their professions or to the Northern Kentucky community; and the qualities of personal integrity, perseverance, and leadership. These women—who live, work, or volunteer in Northern Kentucky—represent the great diversity and extraordinary accomplishments of today’s women. All honorees represent ideal role models for the young women who follow in their footsteps. The Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards were established in the fall of 1984, when the late Nancy Janes Boothe, wife of then-NKU President Leon E. Boothe, invited several faculty and staff members to a luncheon for a discussion of ways to involve more women from the Northern Kentucky area in the University community. In the spring of the following year, the first Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards luncheon was held with The Kentucky Post acting as a co-sponsor. Thomas More University (formerly Thomas More College) and Gateway Community Technical College later joined as education partners. After the newspaper closed in 2008, Toyota became the major sponsor, assumed responsibility for event production, and supported the scholarship program. With the 2014 announcement of Toyota’s headquarters consolidation and eventual relocation to Texas, the program was again in need of a champion to carry the torch. The NKY Chamber of Commerce Women’s Initiative has adopted this program and will continue its remarkable legacy. At the first award celebration, five women were honored. Since then, more than 200 women have been recognized for blazing trails, opening doors, or demonstrating leadership in their homes, their professions, their communities, or their state.

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

TABLE OF CONT E N TS About the Scholarship Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2022 Scholarship Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Scholarship Recipients’ Biographies Allison Jayne Reynolds Gateway Community & Technical College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Rachel Elizabeth Gateley Northern Kentucky University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Shannon Swikert Thomas More University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2022 Award Honorees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Emerging Leader Biography Amanda Dempsey, Ed.D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Outstanding Women Honoree Biographies Sylvia Buxton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Julia Keister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Amy Quinn Dye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Jennifer Steele . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Helen Carroll Champion of Education Biography Stacie Strotman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Biographies Amy Beck & Martha Barnes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Biography Kathy Jennings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Honoring Our Past Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Past Scholarship Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Our Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

EM C EE KAT HRINE N E RO Kathrine Nero is the Director of Media for Game Day Communications, after spending 25 years on television and digital media as an award-winning news anchor, reporter, and host. She’s also a camera coach, content creator and media trainer who shares the lessons learned in 12,000+ hours on camera to make sure you look good for that next Zoom call or media interview. She lives in NKY with her husband and two daughters and—even as a transplant—is one of the area’s biggest fans.

2022 EVENT COMMIT T E E Mary Lynn Brunemann - Chair St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Lisa Raterman LARaterman Associates

Gina Bath NKY Chamber of Commerce

Sharmili Reddy Planning & Development Services of Kenton County

Blanche Gaynor Writing Enhancement Services Brooke Hiltz University of Kentucky Mindy Kershner Cincinnati/NKY International Airport

Dale J. Silver C-Foward Julie Tapke Robert W. Baird & Co. Janice Way Leadership Kentucky

Katie Meyer altafiber

Caroline Weltzer Viox & Viox

Holly Nibert NKY Chamber of Commerce

Wonda Winkler Brighton Center, Inc.

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

Here’s to making every day in Northern Kentucky the best it can be.

PNC is proud to sponsor the NKY Chamber Women’s Initiative - to inspire professional women in the Tri-State area to connect, grow and achieve. Every day, in countless ways, the NKY Chamber is making this a great place to live, work and play.

TH E NANCY JANES BO OT H E SCHOLARS HIP PRO GRA M

The education partners for the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky are Toyota, Gateway Community & Technical College, Northern Kentucky University, and Thomas More University. Each year, Toyota and the three colleges fund one $2,000 scholarship for each school. These scholarships are designated for a deserving female college student who exhibits the same qualities as the Outstanding Women honorees. The three financial awards constitute the Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship program, named posthumously in honor of Nancy Janes Boothe, the founder of the awards program and wife of former Northern Kentucky University president, Dr. Leon Boothe. Nancy was a lovely person and a pillar of the community. As “first lady” of Northern Kentucky University, she worked tirelessly alongside her husband to build the fledgling institution, championing education, and contributing to the community. Though not native to Northern Kentucky, Nancy and her husband established deep roots in their adopted region. At NKU, her involvement and leadership was beyond measure. Off campus, she served on the boards of the Northern Kentucky Salvation Army, Northern Kentucky Heart Association, Northern Kentucky United Way and Community Chest, and Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church. She was devoted to raising the couple’s three daughters: Cheri, Diana, and Cynthia. She was a great lady and exceptionally hard worker, with a naturally generous spirit. Shortly before the Boothes moved to Northern Kentucky, Nancy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. For many years she felt no affects of the disease, but as her symptoms mounted, she was open about her diagnosis. She never let it slow her down. Her goal, according to her husband, was to ‘’to live life to its fullest and to be with people.’’ Like so many of her other goals, it was one she met with seeming ease.

Nancy Janes Boothe: a determined leader, a phenomenal volunteer, a gracious friend. Outstanding indeed.

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

OU TSTA ND IN G

WO M E N

O F

N O RT HERN

KENTUCKY

2022 NANCY JANES BO OT H E SCH O LARS HIP REC IP IE N TS

Allison Jayne Reynolds Gateway Community & Technical College

Rachel Elizabeth Gateley Northern Kentucky University

Shannon Swikert Thomas More University

Fu nded by:

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

2022

NA NCY

G AT E WAY

JAN ES

BOOT H E

CO MMUN IT Y

SCH OL A R S H I P

T ECH NI CAL

R EC I PI E N T

COLLEG E

Allison Jayne Reynolds Allison Jayne Reynolds began her college career during a pivotal point in her life. Due to addiction plaguing her young family, she made the decision to raise her two young children on her own and pull them out of the difficult situation they were facing. That is when the Ready to Work Program through Gateway Community and Technical College swooped in and turned her path around completely. A natural caregiver, Allison spent many years caring for her elderly neighbors, grandmother, and disabled father. When she saw that Gateway offered the Massage Therapy Program, she knew instantly what she wanted to do. Even with a six-month-old and a two-year-old, she began their life again. Allison considers it an honor to turn around and help the next person in need. To help others get access to all the help she once had to get herself is beyond rewarding. Today, she helps other students access the on-campus Food for Thought Pantry and begin the process of receiving food, childcare, medical assistance and counseling. Her degree is one that will also assist others in physical healing. Her years of caregiving have set her up for so much success in this field. Once she is a Licensed Massage Therapist and finishes her Associate Degree, she looks forward to working with palliative care and creating her own business in Medical Massage.

“Words cannot express how honored I am to be surrounded by such strong, amazing women of Northern Kentucky. It is only by the grace of God, help from my mother and a fiery determination for success, that this was even possible,” said Allison. “The encouragement this has provided me will last me long into my days. To look back and know where I came from, and to look forward at such wonderful women ahead cheering me on is just beautiful.”

Gateway Community & Technical College is proud to recognize Allison Jayne Reynolds as the 2022 Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship recipient.

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

2022

NA NCY

JAN ES

NO RT H E R N

BOOT H E

SCH OL A R S H I P

K E N T UCKY

R EC I PI E N T

UNI VERS I TY

Rachel Elizabeth Gateley Rachel Gateley is a Revenue Cycle Management Specialist II at Gravity Diagnostics, who is currently earning her bachelor’s degree in Finance from Northern Kentucky University. Rachel also completed her Real Estate Certificate and Associate of Arts degree in Pre-Business Administration from Cincinnati State in 2021. At Gravity, Rachel was on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed her to help process samples for those who utilized the nationwide testing that Gravity offered through their drive-thru locations, as well as Kroger locations across the country. With Gravity Diagnostics’ 48-hour turn-around-time for COVID-19 test results, this was crucial in helping prevent the spread of the pandemic. Rachel recently lost her mother to pancreatic cancer and has used this as motivation to help raise over $6,000 for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in her mother’s memory. She also spends her free time volunteering with The Barrack’s Project, Inc., a local 100% non-profit 501c3 organization that assists service members and honorably discharged veterans reintegrate back into civilian life.

“I would like to thank my dad for his continuous unwavering support, and my mom for being the driving force behind my desire to always help others,” said Rachel. “Thank you to my boyfriend, Russ, for being there every single time I want to just quit and reminding me that I can accomplish absolutely anything I set my mind to. My friends and family – I wouldn’t have made it this far without every single one of you pushing and encouraging me. I’m honored to receive this award, and I look forward to continuing to better myself and serve our local community.”

Northern Kentucky University is proud to recognize Rachel Elizabeth Gateley as the 2022 Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship recipient. 3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

2022

NA NCY

JAN ES

T HO M AS

BOOT H E

SCH OL A R S H I P

M O R E

UN IV ERS I TY

R EC I PI E N T

Shannon Swikert Having recently made the switch from scientist to educator, Shannon Swikert is completing her first year at St. Paul School in Florence, Kentucky, where she is the middle school science teacher. This position has provided her with an opportunity to share her love of learning with her students and to experience the exploration of Earth, life, and physical sciences with a renewed sense of awe and adventure. At the same time, Shannon is studying for her Master of Arts in Teaching at Thomas More University. Shannon earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of McGill in 2021 where she studied the molecular mechanics underlying the formation of medulloblastoma, a pediatric brain tumor, in the lab of Dr. Frederic Charron at the Montreal Clinical Research Institute. In 2011, she graduated summa cum laude from Centre College with a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry molecular biology. Between her two degrees, she worked as a research assistant in Dr. Kathy Saatman’s lab in the Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center at the University of Kentucky. An active member of her internal community, Shannon served on many committees of the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal student association during her time as a graduate student; she even acted as president of the student association in 201718. Currently, Shannon also serves as the St. Paul School librarian, which gives her a chance to share her passion for reading with the student body.

“I am honored to have been selected for the Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship, and I am grateful to Drs. Kim Haverkos and Alissa Ayres for nominating me,” said Shannon. “I would like to thank Joanne Nesmith and the St. Paul community for their warm welcome and kindness. Most importantly, I would like to thank my family, especially my parents, for their unconditional love and support.”

Thomas More University is proud to recognize Shannon Swikert as the 2022 Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship recipient. OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

2022 AWARD HON OR E ES 2022 Emerging Leader Honoree

Amand a Dempsey, Ed. D. 2022 Outstanding Women of NKY Honorees

Sylvia Buxton Julia Keister Amy Quinn Dye Jennifer Steele 2022 Helen Carroll Champion of Education Honoree Presented by: St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Stacie Strotman 2022 Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Honorees

Amy Beck M ar tha Ba rnes 2022 Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Honoree

Kathy Jennin gs

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

2022

E ME RGIN G

L E A D E R

HONOREE

Amanda Dempsey, Ed.D. Amanda Dempsey, Ed.D. is the early college supervisor for the Young Scholars Academy at Northern Kentucky University (NKU), an early college program empowering students to pursue higher education by enrolling as full-time college students in their final two years of high school. Throughout her 13 years in education, Amanda has focused on the development of student agency by building relationships with students, families, and their communities. Amanda’s recent work has revolved around expanding the Young Scholars Academy to a regional program. She strongly believes in the collective impact of effective collaboration between educational stakeholders and works with both NKU and the Northern Kentucky Cooperative for Educational Services to increase access and support for early college initiatives. A first-generation college graduate, Amanda’s passion is helping fellow first-generation students navigate the higher education landscape. She holds a doctorate in education from NKU in Educational Leadership and was a 2019 Golden Apple award recipient from the Northern Kentucky Education Council. Outside the classroom, Amanda’s life revolves around her family, including her husband of 12 years, Geoff; their two sons, Ian and Crosby; and their intensely affectionate Labrador retrievers, Lulu and Henry. Their family resides in Union, Kentucky. “Any honor that I achieve is truly the result of teamwork and collaboration, and I can’t say thank you enough to my team,” said Amanda. “My mentor, Dr. Francis O’Hara, who always helps me move forward. Dr. Henry Webb, thank you for your mentorship, innovation, and belief in our team. Dr. Winona Landis, thank you for always being my co-creator of experiences for those students we serve. Thanks to my mom, Beth Owens, for always being my role model for female leadership, and to the guys at my house: Geoff, Ian, and Crosby—being your wife and mom will always be the best role I have.”

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

2022

O U TSTAN D IN G

WO M E N

O F

NKY

HONOREE

Sylvia Buxton Sylvia Buxton is a strategic global executive with more than three decades of experience in fast-moving consumer goods, shepherding high-profile businesses and brands such as Mentos, Airheads, Hershey’s, Reese’s, and Airwick. She is the most senior woman in global leadership at Perfetti Van Melle Group, currently leading the North American business unit of more than 1,000 employees across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Perfetti Van Melle is the second-largest global candy and chewing gum manufacturer. Sylvia is a passionate coach and mentor, with emphasis on nurturing emerging women leaders. She is an active member of mentoring committees for NextUp and the NKY Chamber Women’s Initiative. Under her leadership, Perfetti Van Melle USA was named one of NKY Best Workplaces by NKY Magazine in 2021 and 2022. The company has also been named a Community Champion finalist in the 2020 and 2021 NKY Chamber Business Impact Awards. Sylvia is active in the local business community, on the boards of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber and the OneNKYAlliance. She’s also a member of the NKY Chamber Board of Advisors and the National Confectioners Association Board of Trustees. When she’s not working or sharing family time with her husband, two adult children and two cats, Sylvia is an avid competitive Masters swimmer, for which she holds several top 10 USA rankings.

“I am extremely proud to be named as one of Northern Kentucky’s Outstanding Women,” said Sylvia. “This honor is shared with the entire team at Perfetti Van Melle who are passionate about our company, our brands and our support of the community. And of course, my family who lifts me up every day.”

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

2022

O U TSTA N D IN G

WO M E N

O F

NKY

HONOREE

Julia Keister Julia Keister is a business owner, community activist, and mom who has always worked to make the world a better place for all. Julia spent her twenties teaching special education in Brooklyn, New York. After moving to Northern Kentucky in 2014, Julia started working at The Point in Covington supporting teens and adults with disabilities. Julia then launched her own company, Different x Design, which connected artists labeled as having a disability with art entities in Covington. It was during this time, that a culinary passion became a reality. Julia perfected the art of making the bagels she dearly missed from New York. This evolved into Lil’s Bagels, named after Julia’s “Bubbe,” Lillian, and eventually the community anchor it is today. In the beginning, Julia was the visionary, salesperson, marketer, accountant, delivery woman, chef and 4 a.m. baker. She blazed her own path, with a mission that has always been equally dedicated to serving delicious food, as well as a safe space for revolution. Lil’s now employs nearly 15 primarily Queer-identifying people, who proudly serve breakfast, lunch and inclusivity to Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. Through monthly fundraisers and numerous other events, Lil’s has raised over $60,000 for local organizations and efforts have empowered countless individuals. Julia accomplished all these endeavors, while proudly expressing herself as a Queer Jewish woman. In 2019, she won the NKY Pride LGBTQ+ Inclusive Business award, was named a Center for Great Neighborhoods Commitment to Covington Awardee and in, 2021, became a Kentucky Colonel. “I would like to thank all the changemakers past, present, and future who have inspired me and made my path as a Queer woman possible,” said Julia. “Thanks to my parents who instilled in me the life mission to fight for equality. Thanks to my wife Hannah, and our little rascal Boaz, who have taught me what love, family, and being a woman mean.”

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

2022

O U TSTAN D IN G

WO M E N

O F

NKY

HONOREE

Amy Quinn Dye Amy Quinn Dye serves as a VP of Private Banking at Republic Bank in Northern Kentucky, providing her clients with the very best in personalized banking services. With over 30 years of experience in banking, Amy has held several integral roles due to her ability to operate strategically and produce results. Amy is proficient in building and maintaining strong relationships and represents true servant leadership in both her professional and personal life. In fact, she was the first chair of Republic Bank’s Women’s Business Resource Group founded in 2019. Amy is actively involved in nonprofit volunteerism in the Greater Cincinnati community and has had extensive involvement with the NKY Chamber. Amy is a proud member of Leadership NKY’s Class of 2004 and served as the 2016 LNK Chair as well as many other committee chair positions. As a steadfast supporter of women, Amy has dedicated herself to the Women’s Initiative as both a mentor and a round table participant. Amy is a champion for Catholic education and has served on the Board of Directors for Notre Dame Academy (NDA) since 2013. She has taken on many responsibilities since then, including serving as the Board Chair since 2019. Amy also actively participates in NDA’s mentoring program. With a passion for helping children in need, she has served in many capacities for DCCH Center for Children and Families including Board President, Vice President, Secretary, Development Committee, Capital Campaign Co-Chair and Big Sister Volunteer. Through her professional career, volunteer engagement and philanthropic fervor, Amy has had an indelible impact on the Greater Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati region. “I am beyond blessed to have had the opportunity to work with and serve so many amazing people over the years—both in my professional and philanthropic work,” said Amy. “I am grateful to my family, friends and employer for supporting me and inspiring me to make a difference in the lives of others.”

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

2022

O U TSTA N D IN G

WO M E N

O F

NKY

HONOREE

Jennifer Steele Jennifer Steele serves as CEO of Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern Kentucky, which—under her leadership—has grown into one of the largest and most influential community-based organizations serving seniors in the country. With more than 15 years of service in the nonprofit sector, Jennifer’s approach to community impact blends a deep respect for history and values with a relentless drive for change and innovation. She approaches problem solving with empathy and compassion for others, a deep understanding of systemic social issues, grit and determination to find a better way. Jennifer believes it’s possible to transform the way our community and country show up for the seniors who helped to shape and build it, so she channels all her energy into exploring possibilities and blazing new trails. A childhood full of challenges gave her a deep understanding of systemic social problems and a determination to find a better way. Most importantly, those experiences taught her about perseverance, grit, tenacity, unconditional love and understanding. She draws on those experiences every day to transform the way that our community and country show up for the seniors who helped to shape and build it. Jennifer received her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Public Administration degrees from Northern Kentucky University, where she has served as an adjunct faculty member. She has been honored by the Leadership Council for Nonprofits with the VUCA (Vision, Understanding, Clarity & Agility) award, by both of her alma mater programs as a Distinguished Alumnus, and is a graduate of Leadership NKY. She currently serves as a national board member for Meals on Wheels America and volunteers for Saturday Hoops and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Jennifer lives in Ft. Thomas, Kentucky, with her daughter Vivienne. “I am so grateful for the women and men who surround me with love and support, and who have sponsored me and cleared the brush,” said Jennifer. “I’m also grateful for the people and situations, which have challenged me to stay soft while fighting harder, to lock arms with others when I’m tempted to go it alone, and to get creative in solving the problems that we’re all facing together.” OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

2022

HE L E N CAR RO L L CHAMPI ON E D UCAT IO N H O N O REE

Stacie Strotman Stacie Strotman has been involved with Covington Independent Public Schools for as long as she can remember. She attended school in Covington from kindergarten through grade twelve, only leaving the city for four years to attend the University of Kentucky. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and her master’s degree in Public Administration from Northern Kentucky University. There, she was recognized as the program’s outstanding graduate. For the past 23 years, Stacie has worked with Covington’s families and students through a variety of roles. Currently, she serves as the lead for wrap around services for Covington students, providing mentoring, after-school programming, family engagement, academic enrichment, summer learning, and more. Her most notable success has been increasing after-school program participation from approximately 400 students to over 1,800. Stacie is a regional and national leader, currently serving as the chair of Leadership Northern Kentucky, a board member for the National Afterschool Alliance and a member of the White-Riley-Peterson policy fellowship program through Furman University and policy chair for the Kentucky Out of School Alliance Leadership Council. Stacie is also an adjunct professor at Northern Kentucky University teaching Strategic Planning and Evaluation in the Master of Public Administration Program. “It has been such a blessing to follow the women who relentlessly created a path when there wasn’t one,” said Stacie. “I will be forever grateful to my parents who have provided me with everything I needed to become successful, and my sisters who made it easy to follow their lead. To my husband, Mike, and my daughters, Kayelyn and Emma, you have allowed me to work beyond my abilities through your support and encouragement. It has been my greatest honor to work for Covington Independent Public Schools and lead Covington Partners. I hope I have made my community proud.”

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

NOTRE DAME ACADEMY Educating Women to Make a Difference Congratulations to our NDA alumnae: Amy Quinn Dye ’90 Amy Wurtenberger Beck ’78 Martha Wurtenberger Barnes ’78 We are proud of these transformative female leaders embracing God’s goodness in the world and we thank them for living the vision and mission of Notre Dame Academy!

2022 H E N R I E T TA C L E V E L A N D I N S P I R I N G WO M E N H O N O R E ES

Amy Beck & Martha Barnes For more than 60 years, Amy Beck and Martha Barnes have had a successful partnership—as identical twins! Over the course of 35 years, they’ve had successful careers in the banking industry. Amy is a VP of Private Banking at Republic Bank and Martha is retired from PNC Bank. These roles have provided a solid footing for the fundraising activities they’ve spearheaded over the years, most notably the Rally for the Cure golf outing. For 17 years, Rally for the Cure has been raising funds for breast cancer patients in the Tri-State area. Too often, patients find themselves uninsured, underinsured and unable to obtain the necessary exams and tests to maintain breast health. Rally for the Cure steps in to assist these patients. After Martha’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2005, helping patients through their cancer journey has become a priority for the twins. Now, Martha volunteers in the Cancer Center at St. Elizabeth. Amy and Martha currently serve as the Co-Chairs of Rally for the Cure, and have volunteered for many community-minded organizations over the years, including Redwood, Omega Phi Tau Sorority, the NKY Chamber, and they are both active in their church, St. Pius X. They are also past recipients of the Notre Dame Academy Women Making a Difference Award. “Your world can stop on a dime; it’s how you react that makes the difference. I’ve been so blessed to have won the cancer battle, and I believe part of my recovery is to help others through their journey,” said Martha. “I am truly humbled to have been chosen as an Outstanding Woman of NKY. Thank you to my husband Kevin, and extended family and friends, for their never-ending love and support.” “I am very blessed to be a part of a loving, close family with parents who taught us to give back. Quickly, I discovered I was rewarded more by giving than receiving,” said Amy. “Thank you to my family, George, Lauren, Johnny, and Kyle for always cheering me on and supporting me. I am proud to be surrounded by such amazing women leaders in our community. Thank you to the NKY Chamber of Commerce for this honor and to Carri Chandler for nominating Martha and me for this award.” OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

2022

JUDI T H

C L AB ES

L IFET IME

ACH I EV E M E N T

H O N O R E E

Kathy Jennings Kathy Jennings began her nursing career at St. Elizabeth Healthcare more than 39 years ago as a nurse assistant while in nursing school at Northern Kentucky University. She soon found her passion in oncology—a passion that has never wavered. Kathy’s career was nurtured within the oncology program during her time providing direct patient care—her first love—to leading the vison of the oncology program to become the beacon of hope it is today. Under her leadership as Senior Vice President of Oncology & Patient Care Services for St. Elizabeth Healthcare, the new Cancer Center has come to fruition. This Center offers patients quality cancer care under one roof, including medical, radiation, and surgical oncology, as well as a full complement of services that prioritize the patient’s psychosocial care. In addition, her Oncology Research team is providing local access to cuttingedge clinical trials, while the Precision Medicine and Genomic Health team focuses on healthcare disease treatment and prevention by utilizing genomic information to guide the patient’s healthcare path. “I am humbled and honored to receive this award. I am grateful to the senior leadership team at St. Elizabeth Healthcare for their support and mission-driven efforts that allow me to lead a talented team of healthcare professionals in providing patient-centered, quality cancer care,” said Kathy. “Additionally, I am so very grateful for my personal support system, my husband, Tom and my children. Without their inspiration and their patience in helping me achieve a successful work-life balance, I would have never realized the professional fulfillment and privilege I’ve been afforded in making a difference in the lives of the people and community we serve. Lastly, thank you to the NKY Chamber for honoring me with this award.”

3 8 t h

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

H O N O R I N G O U R PAST R EC I P I E N TS

1 985

199 1

1 9 98

Sandra Easton Vanda Langham Mary Miller Vesta Moore Naomi Turner

Kathleen Collins Elizabeth Herald Alice Lambert Tina Moore Ann Richards

Elizabeth “Betty” Bernard Barbara Black Juanita Mills Patricia Summe Dianne B. Yelton

198 6

1992

1 9 9 9

Betty Daniels Garnet Grant Karen Malott Cheryl McDaniel Pat Sommerkamp

Claudia Branham Michelle Budzek Bennie Doggett Patricia Deanna Skees Carol L. Woodyard

Lauren Abel Barbara J. Martin Irene Patrick Alice Sparks Janice Way

1987

1993

20 0 0

Nancy Barone Sister Alice Gerdeman Dale Meyer Marie Weber Judy Moberly West

Mary B. Blake Marie Cannon Sister Mary Dorgan Lois Jean Lambers Rosalie Rothfuss

198 8

1994

Rita Bardo Kim Brooks Angela Casanova Patricia Fann Jan Gerding

Dr. Julia Hudson Carter Beth Fennell Elizabeth Grause Esther Johnson Mary Middleton

1988 Woman of Distinction Award Governor Martha Layne Collins

1994 Founders Award Nancy Janes Boothe

1989 Martha Bunch Kathleen Finck Arlene Gibeau Pamela Mullins Betty Zimmer

19 9 0 Sister W. Burkhard Helen Ernst Linda Verst Edwina Walker Fran Zaniello

1995 Virginia Clare Katherine Meyer Jayne Morgenthal Gayle Payne Mary Ann Plummer

1996 Dr. Susan K. Cook Betty Cottingham Helen Cummins Bert Huff Cathy Kunkel-Mains

Dr. Joyce J. Fortney Bari L. Joslyn Dr. Rosetta J. Mauldin Charlene R. Palmer, P.E.

20 0 1 Barbara Dahlenburg Bonar Mary A. Hemmer Mary Northington Ginger O. Paul Martha Snider

2002 Ruth Bauman Kit Hammons Alice Kennelly Roberts Dr. Angela Taylor Nancy J. Tretter

2003 Karen L. Collins Brenda J. Sparks Sandra J.H. Strauss Gail W. Wells Nancy Ziegler Trailblazer Award Rosana Aydt & Mary Beth Beimesch

1997 Linda S. Allen Ann Haegele Sister Juanita Nadicksbernd Margo Otto Laura Thomson

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

20 04

2009

Judith G. Clabes Dr. Terri Cox-Cruey Mary Jo Davis Judith G. Gibbons Sara L. Sidebottom

25th Year Celebration

Lifetime Advocate Award Hannah Hume Baird

20 05 Sister Mary Luann Bender Helen Marie Carroll Betty Timon Rosa Weaver Diane Ewing Whalen

201 3

Barbara Moran Johnson Janet Roessler Scanlon Outstanding Women of Dale J. Silver Northern Kentucky A wards Judge Karen A. Thomas Rachael Winters

2010

Sister Janet Bucher Karen Finan Sister Jean Marie Hoffman Judge Joy Moore Lisa Raterman Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Nancy Winstel

Humanitarian Award Julie Geisen Scheper

Emerging Leader Award Peggy Casey

20 06

2011

Kimberly Banta Julie Boudousquie Jane Meier Cheryl Rushing Grace Wilson

Jill Bailey Sarah Hughes Leshia Lyman Marianne Schmidt Hurtt

Emerging Leader Award Donna Bloemer

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Judi Gerding

20 07

Emerging Leader Award Kara Clark Williams

Ruth Eger Nancy Kinman Rebecca Moening Chris Vissman Rachel Votruba

2012

Emerging Leader Award Carri Chandler

20 08 Sherry Carran Laura Cook Beth Penn Kelly Schoening

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Mary Bunning

201 4

30th Year Celebration Cindy Carris Jeanne Schroer Debbie Simpson Jeanne-Marie Tapke, PhD Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Bennie Doggett Emerging Leader Award Crystal Gibson Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Christina Rust, MSN

Lisa Cooney Henderson Justice Michelle Keller Rhonda Whitaker Shelli Wilson

Helen Carroll Lifetime Leader in Education Award Polly Lusk Page

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Charlotte Wethington

201 5

Emerging Leader Award Amber Decker

Karen Cheser Candace S. McGraw Kristi P. Nelson Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Donna Salyers Emerging Leader Award Claire E. Parsons Sharmili Reddy

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Judy Clements S.O.A.R. Emerging Leader Award Johnna Reeder

3 8 t h

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Sister Margaret Stallmeyer, CDP

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Lynne Saddler, MD, MPH

A N N UA L

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

H O N O R I N G O U R PAST R EC I P I E N TS

2016

2019

Kim Halbauer Laurie Risch Stacy Tapke Wonda Winkler

Geralyn Isler Barbara Stewart Jessica Taylor Caroline Weltzer

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Molly Navin

Emerging Leader Award Holly Mazzocca

Emerging Leader Award Serena Owen

Helen Carroll Champion of Education Award Laura Koehl

Helen Carroll Champion of Education Award Sue Sorrell

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Eva G. Farris

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Julie Dusing

2020 Lisa Cooper Wafa Nasser, M.D. Teri VonHandorf, Ed.D. Kim M. Webb

2017 Maryanne McGowan Gabrielle Summe

Emerging Leader Award Laura S. Menge

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Linda M. Young

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Kristi P. Nelson

Helen Carroll Champion of Education Award Kathleen Burkhardt, Ed.D.

Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Tammy Weidinger

Emerging Leader Award Katie Meyer Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Joan Tepe Wurtenberger

2021 Danielle Amrine Nancy Grayson

2018

Emerging Leader Award Rachel DesRochers

Dr. Julie M. Aubuchon, O.D. Florence Tandy Alecia Webb-Edgington Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Sr. Mary Ethel Parrott, SND Helen Carroll Champion of Education Award Kathleen Reutman Bryant Emerging Leader Award Kristen Smitherman-Voltaire

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Lee Ann Ernst Helen Carroll Champion of Education Award Irene Encarnación Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Award Susan McDonald

Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Award Representative Kimberly Poore Moser

OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

PA S T S C H O L A R S H I P R EC I P I E N T S

2008

2015

Teri Meyer

Christina Hicks

Gateway Community & Technical College

Lori Knapp Cromer

Shannon Lackey

Northern Kentucky University

Jeannie Yates Voges

Tonya Hash

Thomas More College

2009

2016

Tracy Shirden

Lora Jones

Gateway Community & Technical College

Glenda Faye Cromer Jordan

Kathleen Durchholz-Biggs

Northern Kentucky University

Rebecca Rae Burton

Melanie Johnson

Thomas More College

2010

2017

Julie Elbert

Leigh Ann Hoskins

Gateway Community & Technical College

Heidi Glaub

Victoria Boerger

Northern Kentucky University

Paula Lynn Rudicill-Vaske

Laura Berkemeier

Thomas More College

2011

2018

Christy Booth

Marsha White

Gateway Community & Technical College

Betty Jo Cope

Kimberly Masco

Northern Kentucky University

Michele Joyce Beier

Mirtha Vasallo

Thomas More College

2012

2019

Melissa Anne Howell

Rebecca Wolfe

Gateway Community & Technical College

Jennifer Lee Klein

Emily Lowe

Northern Kentucky University

Margaret Perrino

Patti Watters

Thomas More College

Thomas More University

2013

2020

Sara Marie Foster

Savannah Bucks

Gateway Community & Technical College

Jeanne Coyle

Barbie Watkins

Northern Kentucky University

Tamara Pitts

Holly Jenkins

Thomas More College

Thomas More University

2014

2021 Jean Schirtzinger

Betty Pack Gateway Community & Technical College

Melissa Tatum Northern Kentucky University

Melisa AlJamal

A N N UA L

Chandra Huff Northern Kentucky University

Anissa Bradley Thomas More University

Thomas More College 3 8 t h

Gateway Community & Technical College

AWA R D S

P R E S E N TAT I O N

•

2 0 2 2

On the path to better health, look for the signs Humana cares about our members and our community. Let us show you how we’re using technology to make our members healthier and our plans easier to use.

OTER MED O C

GCHK67MEN 0422

c e l eb ra t i n g 1 0 y ea r s 2012-2022

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF NKY AWARD

HONOREES FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT SCOOTER MEDIA covington, ky | scootermediaco.com | (859) 414-6882 Cincinnati PRSA 2021 Small/Mid-Sized Agency of the Year

www.OurHeritage.bank

Where Small & Mid-Size Businesses Feel At Home

Whether you’re a start-up or a mid-size company celebrating a landmark anniversary, Heritage Bank can provide the banking solutions and expertise essential to your success. We’re small business banking specialists inspired by our customers’ vision, ingenuity and grit. We’re a community bank vested in the region you call home.

More About Complete an interest form and get more engaged.

CONNECT GROW ACHIEVE

The Northern Kentucky Chamber started the Women’s Initiative in 2008 and it continues to be the fastest growing area of the NKY Chamber. The NKY Chamber Women’s Initiative is committed to helping employers meet the rising professional development goals for their employees. The Women’s Initiative, sponsored by PNC, is the leading organization for women of all career stages working toward business and professional success. It was created to inspire businesswomen in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati to Connect, Grow and Achieve.

Regional Summit

Monthly CONNECT Hour This networking event for women is held the last Monday of every month.

Annual Breakfast Our largest event features a keynote speaker who will share her story of professional achievement.

Golf Outing & Clinic A day of fun and networking with other professional women and men.

The premier day-long conference for professional women to be held in the fall of each year.

Outstanding Women of NKY Sponsored by This award program recognizes women who show outstanding service to their professions and their community.

Peer-to-Peer Roundtable Program

Engagement Committee Assist with the recruitment and engagement of women within the Women’s Initiative program.

GROW Mentoring Program Enables a pair to meet for a one-on-one relationship for career growth over the period of one year. Now accepting applications. Open to NKY Chamber members. NKYChamber.com/WIMentee NKYChamber.com/WIMentor

Professional Series Two events featuring various business related topics, held in the spring and fall.

Groups of 8–10 women from different industries and career status meet once a month to support each other in a productive, confidential setting. Now accepting applications (open to NKY Chamber members). NKYChamber.com/WIRoundtable For more information: NKYChamber.com/WomensInitiative To get involved with Women’s Initiative, complete the interest form at: NKYChamber.com/WIConnectGrowAchieve For a list of upcoming events: NKYChamber.com/events

NKYChamber.com/WILinkedin Facebook.com/NKYWI OU TSTA N D I N G

WO M EN

O F

N O RT H E R N

KE N T U C KY

YOUR VIEW. YOUR CHOICE. YOUR HOME IN NKY.

Choose your design plan and customizations before it’s too late. Homes are selling quickly. JOIN THE PREFERRED BUYERS LIST TODAY. Valerie Bender

513.643.1585

OvationOnTheRiver.com

altafiber.com

Advocacy, Leadership Development, Networking, Workforce Strategies, YP Programs, Trainings & more! Made up of companies of all types and sizes, the Northern Kentucky Chamber is the region’s leading business organization focused on promoting & supporting the development of strong businesses & a vibrant economy. ← Scan here to learn

more and start your membership today!

nkychamber.com 859.578.8800

Professional Series

Don’t Just Know Your Value, Live Your Value Tuesday, June 7 | 8:30 - 10:00 AM | Kenton County Public Library

SHARON FUSCO Redwood

MINA JONES JEFFERSON Graydon Law

LACY STARLING LINK NKY

NKYChamber.com/ProSeries

Title Sponsor:

A special thanks to our past Outstanding Women of NKY honorees featured in the opening video (listed in order of appearance): Helen Carroll, 2005 Judith Clabes, 2004 Holly Mazzocca, 2019 Danielle Amrine, 2021 Jeanne Schroer, 2021 Nancy Grayson, 2021 Susan McDonald, 2021 Lee Ann Ernst, 2021 Irene Encamación, 2021 Kathy Burkhardt, 2017

Katie Meyer, 2017 Kim Halbauer, 2016 Rachel DesRochers, 2021 Sarah Hughes, 2011 Gabrielle Summe, 2017 Julie Geisen Scheper, 2005 Serena Owen, 2016 Barb Moran Johnson, 2013 Lisa Cooney Henderson, 2012 Rachel Voturba, 2007

Florence Tandy, 2018 Kathleen Reutman Bryant, 2018 Ruth Eger, 2007 Claire Parsons, 2015 Shelli Wilson, 2012 Jeanne-Marie Tapke, 2014 Barb Stewart, 2019 Geralyn Isler, 2019

2 0 2 1 AWA R D S 2 0 2 1 AWA R D S

OU R GENEROUS S P O N SO R S Title Sponsor

Presenting Sponsor

Outsta nding Women of NKY Award Sponsor

Emgering Leader Award Sponsor

Event Sponsors

Media Par tner

Education Par tners

Corporate Sponsors Brighton Center, Inc. Connecti Ventures Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport Duke Energy KMK Law/Brixey & Meyer Kenton County Public Library Northern Kentucky University Foundation

Republic Bank R.W. Baird Thomas More University Viox & Viox, Inc. Writing Enhancement Services YMCA of Greater Cincinnati

ATTRACT IN C L U D E R E TA IN

IDEA Summit

Inclusion, Diversity & Equity Advancement Powered by

Friday, June 10 | 7:30 AM - Noon St. Elizabeth Training & Education Center NKYChamber.com/IDEA

Title Sponsor:

Social Media Sponsor:

Host Sponsor:

Breakfast & Coffee Sponsor:

Session Sponsor:

Panelist Sponsor:

Closing Sponsor:

Find purpose Find your Y Together, we work to ensure that everyone—regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race, or sexual orientation—is treated equitably. We do this by building inclusive and joyful environments where all people can reach goals, make friends, and connect to a cause greater than themselves.

JOIN US Youth Development

MyY.org

Healthy Living

Social Responsibility