Jo Morrison
At 104, Jo Morrison continues to be a faithful servant who builds up and supports individuals and organizations, bringing about positive change to our [...]
Tribute to Women 2021
Share the Light
This year marks the 30th Annual YWCA Tribute to Women, a yearly celebration to recognize the contributions of exceptional women and, as our largest fundraiser, to provide crucial support for YWCA's essential programs and services.
We're changing things up this year and inviting everyone to Share the Light by recognizing women who've made a difference - whether they’re living or deceased, local or living across the world: a mother, a grandmother, a favorite teacher, a kind neighbor, or even a best friend. Share a Tribute and shine a light on the ways she nurtures, empowers, or transforms those around her!
2021 Honorees
Danielle Bland
It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact number of lives inspired by Danielle Bland throughout her career as owner and artistic director of The Dance [...]
Merrill Fowlkes Hoopengardner
Merrill Fowlkes Hoopengardner grew up in Abingdon, VA. She received her bachelor's and law degrees from Duke University. For 25 years Merrill has transformed [...]
Shaunna Mellons
Through the sharing of her time, energy, and personal experience with addiction, Shaunna offers much-needed hope and support to those who often have none. [...]
Nell Bieger
Nell, your expert legal wisdom is greatly appreciated, but even more important is your kindness and loving caring which you give to all. Thank [...]
Peggy Donaldson
My mother significantly encouraged my spiritual, physical, and academic growth in life. I did not realize I was following in my mother's footsteps as [...]
Jewel Bell
Jewel is a pillar of the community, serving various roles at King University, Lee Street Baptist Church, the YWCA of Bristol’s Board of Directors, [...]
Jessica Jane Rucker
At the tender age of 15, Jessica suffered the devastating loss of the most important women in her life-her Mother. Fortunately, Jessica was blessed [...]
Sonie Schermer
She has been engaged in showcasing the majesty of our natural environment for over 30 years. She is a true champion for residents and [...]
Claire Doherty
Claire Doherty’s love for and commitment to Bristol began when she came to live here 36 years ago.
As a member of Newcomers & Friends, [...]
Pat Phillips
Pat, thank you for your loyal friendship, kindnesses, and creative fun times that you are always planning. Your light shines bright and you [...]
Vivian Crymble
Vivian has a heart of gold, and her generosity knows no bounds. She gives and gives, and give some more. As a past Rotary [...]
Anne Johnson
The Kindergarten class at Saint Anne Catholic School would love to recognize Mrs. Anne Johnson as a 2021 Tribute to Women Honoree. Although this [...]
Suzanne Blaser
The Second Grade class at Saint Anne Catholic School would love to recognize Mrs. Suzanne Blaser as a 2021 Tribute to Women Honoree! Teaching young little minds [...]
Jane Alma Manzi
Her devotion to her family was pure. Her legacy of unconditional love and support continues everyday to serve as a role model for her [...]
Billie Schneider
The Saint Anne Catholic School would love to recognize our principal, Ms. Billie Schneider as a 2021 Tribute to Women Honoree! To say we have a [...]
Susan Benton
Loving, caring, kind, compassionate; these are all adjectives that describe my dear sister Susan.
Above all else, her greatest attribute is that of “care-giver”. Being [...]
Give a Tribute
Do you know a woman deserving of recognition?
Optionally, you can also have your tribute posted publicly on our website. Public tributes can include photos, video, more wording, and can be shared to social media. You can also invite others to Share the Light by leaving comments of gratitude, congratulations, or a favorite memory of your Honoree.
Simply fill out and submit the form on this page and indicate whether you’d like your tribute to be public or private. If you’d prefer to mail in a paper form, Click Here for the Printable Form.
All proceeds will directly support YWCA NETN and SWVA's programs and benefit working families, children, and young adult victims of crime.For assistance with submissions, please email HSmith@ywcatnva.org or call 423-968-9444 and leave a message for Heather Smith.
Tribute Certificate Example
About Tribute to Women
A program like none other in the area, Tribute to Women was born in 1992 as a way to empower women by recognizing their dedicated work and its positive effect on our community.
Tribute progresses the YWCA mission by providing community corporations, organizations and businesses a platform to publicly acknowledge the outstanding achievements of women in the Northeast Tennessee-Southwest Virginia region. Additionally, this great program serves as a significant source of funding for the vital services offered to women and families through the YWCA.
Congratulations to Our 2020 Recipients!
Nurture
Jennifer Adler is a mentor, professor and public official. She empowers others to think independently while exposing them to new and different ideas. Jennifer’s story empowers young women in our region who don’t have familial models of academic achievement. In Jennifer they see themselves-that they, too, can be a professor, a public official, and a champion for others.
Lori Hamilton, RN has been recognized with many achievements including Health Care Hero Award and 2018 March of Dimes Nurse of the Year in Public Health. She has developed a comprehensive program that benefits Food City’s associates, customers, and community partners. Lori is a strong advocate for health and wellness, and her strong commitment to serving others is evident to all.
As a patrol officer Debbie Richmond became a role model for women interested in law enforcement. She was later assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, where, guided by her unique blend of strength and kindness, she became a trusted advocate in the Bristol community, for the most vulnerable victims. Her overwhelming desire to serve victims has been especially meaningful to our community.
Empower
Becca Davis is the co-founder and executive director of ReFrame Association, which supports affordable housing rehabilitation and repairs for low-income people throughout the United States, ensuring homes are safe, healthy, and more livable for residents. She empowers nonprofits by identifying and sharing their best practices, educating them in sustainable repair methods and techniques for improved volunteer recruitment and retention.
Dr. Shelley Koch‘s teaching philosophy at Emory and Henry College has been shaped by her personal journey, with one foot in the world of ideas and one in the world of work life. Shelley is a powerhouse in Southwest Virginia and has served on the board of Appalachian Sustainable Development and Appalachian Peace Education Center. She has also published books and articles focusing on food and society.
Dr. Rene Rodgers played an integral role in the development of the Birthplace of Country Music Museum while adhering to the high standards of the Smithsonian. She is also works with other organizations to help make the community stronger. Rene personifies grace under pressure and inspires others through her tireless work ethic and methodical approach to problem solving
Transform
Linda Shepherd is a dynamic nursing professional and accomplished healthcare executive. She has a vision and optimism for the nursing profession, and particularly for nursing in Southwest Virginia. Linda has and continues to demonstrate skill development and growth in transforming not only herself professionally, but also in those she leads through her involvement in many organizations.
Katy Ford Sikorski consistently leads by example through her willingness to work, positive attitude, and dedication to service. As president of the Rotary Club she guided the club’s many community and international initiatives. . She currently provides oversight, coordinates and manages clinical deliveries for drug trials. Katy is currently responsible for an international study with 110 sites in 11 countries and a domestic study in 58 US cities.
Jamie Swift plays a significant role in the safety of people throughout the region, as well as within the system’s 21 hospitals and many other facilities as the director of infection prevention at Ballad Health. She is one of the primary experts in the region on infectious diseases, and her guidance in the community on how to prepare and react to the threat of these diseases is crucial.