YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Attorney Linette Stratford, magistrate with the Mahoning County Juvenile Court and former chief assistant of the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, will be honored as Woman of the Year by the Youngstown Business & Professional Women.

Stratford will be honored during an Oct. 20 event at The Lake Club, 1140 Paulin Road, Poland.

The honor recognizes Stratford’s leadership, commitment to public service and dedication to advancing women and families in the community. She has built a career rooted in advocacy, fairness and service to others, a news release states. In her role with the Mahoning County Juvenile Court, she works to support youths and families navigating the court system, ensuring that each individual is treated with dignity and given opportunities for positive outcomes.

Beyond the courtroom, Stratford has been a mentor and advocate for women in the legal profession and beyond. During her 31 years with the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, she took an active role in mentoring young attorneys, interns and staff, helping to guide the next generation of legal professionals, the release states.

“Linette Stratford exemplifies the mission of YBPW through her leadership, integrity and dedication to empowering others,” said Gina DeGenova, past president and co-chair of the Woman of the Year Committee. “Her work has made a lasting impact on the lives of families, colleagues and the community at large, and we are honored to recognize her as this year’s Woman of the Year.”

Throughout her career, Stratford has been a strong proponent of equitable workplace practices, including advancing equal pay initiatives and supporting the professional growth of women in law and public service.

Stratford is also a published author, co-writing three books: “Producer Consciousness,” “Producer Consciousness – A New Mindset for Education” and “Producer Consciousness for Kids.”

Proceeds from the Oct. 20 event will help fund scholarships that provide assistance to deserving women pursuing higher education in the greater Youngstown area. More information about YBPW, including how to purchase a ticket for the Woman of the Year event, is available HERE.

Pictured at top: From left are Dee McFarland, co-chair of the Woman of the Year Committee, Linette Stratford and Gina DeGenova.