The YWCA Dayton will honor our 2026 Women of Influence and Betsy B. Whitney Lifetime Achievement Honorees on March 12, 2026, from 11:30 am-1:00 pm at the Dayton Convention Center
Your Invitation Awaits—Get Your Sponsorships and Tickets Now!
Meet the Honorees:
We are proud to recognize and celebrate the work of phenomenal women from our community who have made a profound impact:
Debbie Blunden-Diggs
Vicki Giambrone
Myla Cardona-Jones
Robyn Lightcap
Heather Salazar
Lisa Wagner
Scroll down to see photos of our Honorees!
2026 Betsy B. Whitney Lifetime Achievement
Vicki Giambrone
Debbie Blunden-Diggs
Myla Cardona-Jones
Heather Salazar
Robyn Lightcap
Lisa Wagner
the element of surprise…
These remarkable leaders uplift, inspire, and strengthen our community every day—paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.
The YWCA Dayton is proud to announce the renaming of its most prestigious honor to The Betsy B. Whitney Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of its longest-serving champion.
Betsy Whitney’s dedication to the organization is unparalleled, spanning over 65 years and including 50 continuous years on the Board of Directors, culminating in more than 80,000 hours of service. Her leadership proved foundational to the YWCA’s mission: she was a driving force behind the organization becoming the second in the country to open a shelter for battered women, and she personally inspired the creation of the annual Women of Influence Luncheon, the major event where this very award is bestowed.
This permanent designation ensures that all future recipients will be measured by the exceptional standard of service, tenacity, and commitment to gender and racial equality that Betsy Whitney set for the entire community.
Circle of Influence
Women of Influence as not just a one-time award ceremony, but rather an important part of our mission to uplift women and girls in leadership and mentorship. Women of Influence Honorees are invited to stay connected through our quarterly newsletter, events, and mentorship opportunities.
