What better way to celebrate Women’s History Month than by recognizing LOCAL women that are making “it” happen every day. YWCA Delaware celebrates every woman’s ability to achieve, succeed and encourage others as they revitalize their lives, families and communities. Dara Richardson-Heron, M.D. CEO, YWCA USA will be the keynote speaker at the YWCA Delaware’s 2013 Awards Luncheon. The luncheon is an event where LOCAL women are honored for their individual contributions to the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women – those who are making history in our communities.

2013 YWCA Delaware Honorees:

Ellen Kullman, CEO, DuPont—Trailblazer Award from Wilmington, DE
Zenaida Otero Gephardt, PhD, PE, Associate Professor, Rowan University—Advancement of Women Award from Wilmington, DE
Laura Graham, Esq., Senior Attorney, Community Legal Aid Society (CLASI)—Leader in Racial Justice Award
Rev. Paula A. Maiorano, Executive Director, A Center for Relational Living—Rita Turner Award from Wilmington, DE
Shefon N. Taylor, co-founder, “Just Be”—Genevieve Gore Young Women’s Leadership Award
Bergundie J. Parker, student, Christiana High School—YWCA Empowerment Award from Christiana, DE
Tracy B. Zigman, Senior Segment Manager, JPMorgan Chase – Corporate Honoree from Wilmington, DE

“Empowering women and eliminating racism will deepen the greatness of our humanity,” said Rev. Paula Maiorano, Rita Turner honoree. “It is a spirit-lifting honor for the work that I do—to be recognized as part of this on-going transformation.”

Wednesday, March 20, 2013 at Noon

Gold Ballroom at the Hotel du Pont, Wilmington

Eliminating racism, empowering women- it’s what we are about and what we intend to do.

“The purpose of these awards is to honor extraordinary women who break new ground; are committed to actively pursuing opportunities to make a difference in the world; are champions in eliminating barriers for all people; actively serve as mentors; and encourage others to reach their full potential.” ~ Ginny Marino, CEO, YWCA DE

Awards will be presented at the 2013 Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, March 20, 2013 at the Hotel du Pont in Wilmington. The YWCA USA has more than 2 million participants in 1,300 locations throughout the United States. Throughout the U.S., it is a dynamic grassroots organization committed to social justice through action, advocacy and service delivery.

To learn more about the honorees,

visit www.ywcade.org/awards

Online ticket purchase is now closed.

To purchase ticket (s), please call 302.655.0039 ext. 243.

YWCA Delaware is a nonprofit organization that is committed to community service focusing on the special needs of women. We assist in attaining life-changing skills, building healthy relationships, with a focus on racial equity and advancing women and their families economically. It is our goal to help women achieve independence and to encourage their personal development. We are valued as a voice for women politically, socially and individually and as a means for women in all stages and walks of life to bring strength to each other.

YWCA Delaware is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Fact: $37,118-the median annual earnings of women 15 or older who worked year-round, full time in 2011. In comparison, the median annual earnings of men were $48,202. Source: Income, Poverty, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2011, Page 7 &11.

Keynote Speaker

Dara Richardson-Heron, M.D., CEO YWCA USA

Dr. Dara Richardson-Heron is the CEO of the YWCA USA, leading the organization nationwide since December 2012. Richardson-Heron is based in the national office in Washington, D.C., where she leads the national advocacy, communications and development teams as well as field directors from around the country. Richardson-Heron travels extensively to YWCAs across the United States and represents the organization on Capitol Hill, with the White House and Administration and with coalition partners, corporations, major donors and the national media.