By Joey “Hoppie” McDonald Special Correspondent for Cincinnati Good News
In a city known for its grit and its grace, few traditions carry as much weight as the YWCA Greater Cincinnati’s annual recognition of leadership. In a recent broadcast of Cincy Lifestyle, the organization officially pulled back the curtain on its 2026 Career Women of Achievement honorees.
This isn’t just about impressive resumes; it’s about the women who are actively “breaking concrete ceilings” and pulling the rest of the community up with them.
The Class of 2026
This year’s list represents a powerhouse of local talent across various sectors. The honorees include:
- Evie Alessandrini
- Debbie Brandt
- Julie Kirkpatrick
- Cheryl Long
- Michelle Oor
- Jay Phenise P
- Katie Short Thompson
- Susan Street WH
- Nabila Tanvir Ahmad
- Kiana R Debut
A Heritage of Excellence
Since 1980, the YWCA has honored 372 women who have moved the needle in our region. As President and CEO Raquel Howard Smith noted during the announcement, these awards are vital because they ensure that women doing the heavy lifting in our community are seen, valued, and heard.
Event co-chair Susan Zonreer, herself a past honoree, described the experience as a profound validation. To be recognized after years of tireless work doesn’t just feel good—it fuels the next decade of progress.
More Than a Luncheon
While the April 30th event at the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati is celebrated as the city’s largest lunchtime gathering, its impact lasts long after the plates are cleared. As the YWCA’s primary fundraiser, the event provides the lifeblood for:
- Domestic Violence Services: Providing safety and resources for survivors.
- Empowerment Programming: Training the next generation of female leaders.
- Advocacy: Fighting for justice and equity at every level of local government.
Join the Celebration
Tickets for the luncheon are available starting Thursday, January 29th. If you want to witness the largest gathering of movers and shakers in the Queen City, head over to ywcacincinnati.org to secure your spot.
Credit: This report was summarized from an original interview on Cincy Lifestyle. You can view the full announcement here: YWCA Greater Cincinnati reveals 2026 honorees.
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