News Summary
The YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee will celebrate its 33rd Academy for Women of Achievement, honoring six remarkable recipients for their significant contributions to the community. The ceremony, co-chaired by notable figures and emceed by a well-known news anchor, showcases women leaders dedicated to fostering inclusivity and empowerment. With sponsorship from Amazon and others, the event highlights the YWCA’s ongoing mission to eliminate racism and empower women.
Nashville to Honor Women of Achievement
Nashville, TN – The YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has announced the celebration of its 33rd class of the Academy for Women of Achievement (AWA), recognizing outstanding contributions by women within the community. The awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2024, at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel, with Amazon serving as the presenting sponsor.
This year, six recipients will be honored, including five extraordinary women and one prominent organization known for their impactful work in the community. The event aims to celebrate their dedication to leadership, integrity, and commitment to uplifting and shaping a more inclusive future.
Leadership and Support for the Event
The 2024 AWA ceremony will be co-chaired by notable figures: Deborah Taylor Tate, an AWA Class of 2006 alumna; Hon. Emily J. Reynolds, a member of the AWA Class of 2024; and Adrienne Johnson, a YWCA Board Member. Renowned NewsChannel 5 weather anchor Lelan Statom will emcee the evening.
Sharon K. Roberson, the President and CEO of YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, stated that the honorees reflect the YWCA values of strength and commitment to community. Their collective mission focuses on breaking barriers and fostering opportunities for others.
Significance of the Awards
The honorees of the 2024 class join the ranks of 198 women and 35 organizations previously recognized by the Academy. The honorees are selected by a committee comprising business and community leaders along with members of YWCA’s Executive Committee, ensuring a thorough recognition of contributions that emphasize professional success and a dedication to improving lives.
In anticipation of the event, a new theme for the Academy will be announced later during a private gathering in September. This year’s theme and program are being developed by FINN Partners.
Sponsorship and Community Involvement
The event has garnered sponsorship from several organizations, including Amazon as the presenting sponsor, alongside Mary Wester Foundation and Dollar General as Peace Sponsors, and BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust and Jackson National Life Insurance Company as Freedom Sponsors. Tickets and additional information about the event can be found on the YWCA Nashville website.
YWCA’s Ongoing Mission
The Academy for Women of Achievement was founded in 1992 with the aim of increasing the visibility of women’s achievements both in the workplace and the broader community. YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has a rich history of over 125 years, dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women while promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
YWCA initiatives include a variety of programs such as Domestic Violence Services, AMEND Together, Girls Inc., Dress for Success, Family Learning Center, and efforts in Social Justice and Advocacy. The awards event not only honors the contributions of women in the region but also serves as a catalyst for community engagement, inspiring individuals to step forward in support of women’s empowerment and social justice.
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Additional Resources
- The Tennessee Tribune
- Wikipedia: YWCA
- Nashville Lifestyles
- Google Search: YWCA Nashville
- Billboard
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women of Achievement
Author: HERE Nashville
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