The 35th Annual YWCA Women of the Year

The Women of the Year event is to honor special women whose lives, talents and passions shape the Cass-Clay community. Proceeds from this event also financially support the mission and the programs of the YWCA Cass Clay.

For 35 years, the YWCA has honored special women whose lives, talents and passions shape the Cass-Clay community. The event was held at the Holiday Inn on Monday, April 21, 2008.

2008 Women of the Year Recipients

Sister Andrea Arendt, PBVM
Faith Community

Tracy Briggs
Volunteer Service

Donna Chalimonczyk
Arts & Communications

Kyja Kristjansson-Nelson
Education

Carly Nelson
Wellness

Jane Nelson
Advocating for Equality

Hillary Scherweit
Young Woman of Tomorrow (19-25)

Devany A. Schulz
Young Woman of Tomorrow (15-18)

Melody Staebner
Youth Advocacy

Carol Stoudt
Florence Reed Owens Lifetime Achievement

Jessica A. Thomasson
Community Service

Tri-College National Education for Women’s (NEW) Leadership Development Institute
Business/Organization that Empowers Women

Jane C. Voglewede
Business

2008 WOMEN OF THE YEAR CATEGORIES

Advocating for Equality - Any woman whose work or community involvement promotes respect, inclusion and equal rights for all people.

Arts & Communications - Any woman contributing in the areas of visual or written communications, media, music and all creative arts who works and art exemplify the strength of women and girls and the vision of equality.

Business - Women will be considered from all levels in the business world: business owners, managers, employees and entrepreneurs. Nominees may be employed by profit or non-profit organizations, and demonstrate their professionalism through ambition, organizational effectiveness, and ethical leadership.

Community Service - This woman contributes greatly to the quality of life in the community through political involvement, public service, government, and social service. She may be elected, appointed or hired.

Education - Women working as teachers, administrators, or support staff in child care, elementary, secondary, higher education, non-traditional settings or community education who nurture, empower and inspire their students.

Faith Community - This woman has made a significant contribution in bringing the mission and vision of the faith community to life by empowering others to do ministry through her leadership.

Volunteer Service - Any woman who has made a significant volunteer contribution to her community, without expecting remuneration.

Wellness - Any woman working in the areas of physical, mental or spiritual health who empowers the whole person through her energy, adaptability and prevention efforts.

Young Woman of Tomorrow - This young woman has demonstrated exceptional leadership, scholastic ability, volunteer service or special achievements. Two categories ages 15 -18 and 19-25 years old.

Youth Advocacy - Any woman who is an advocate for the health and well-being of youth either by engaging in advocacy efforts on behalf of youth or working directly with young people.

Business/Organization that Empowers Women - This business or organization has proven its dedication to the advancement of women by empowering them socially, economically, and professionally.

Florence Reed Owens Award - This woman must be at least 55 years of age, and have demonstrated a long-term commitment to equality, empowering women and girls, and/or eliminating racism. She exemplifies integrity and displays compassion for humanity.