YBPW Names Leah Merritt Woman of the Year

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Youngstown Business and Professional Women has selected Leah Merritt, president and CEO of YWCA Mahoning Valley, as its 2021 Woman of the Year.

Merritt will be recognized during the organization’s annual National Business Women’s Week dinner on Oct. 19 at The Lake Club.

Since joining YWCA in 1994, Merritt has served in several roles, including becoming its president and CEO in July 2012. Aligning with the organization’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women, she has worked to provide impactful services for women, families and marginalized individuals, particularly those of color, emphasizing affordable housing.

“Not only has Leah been a leader in our community with her work helping women and families, but also she’s been an avid supporter of the work YBPW has done,” YBPW President Rene Butler said in a statem,ent. “We’re so excited to be able to honor her as this year’s Woman of the Year.”

Merritt also serves as a board member for the League of Women Voters of Greater Youngstown and chairs the budget committee as the past treasurer. She is a board member for the Warren Kiwanis, co-chair elect for the Ohio Council of YWCAs and a member of the Social Justice League.

The YBPW National Business Women’s Week dinner is open to the public and doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $55 per person. Proceeds fund college scholarships for Mahoning Valley women. For more information or to make reservations, go to YBPW.org or email ybpwboard2@gmail.com.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.