Congratulations are in order for Kendra Smith! She has been named one of this year’s YWCA Milestone: A Tribute to Women honorees by the YWCA of Northwest Ohio.
The Milestones Awards event was established in 1996 to recognize women of northwest Ohio who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities. These are women that through their efforts and accomplishments have opened doors for other women to achieve their potential. Recipients are honored for outstanding accomplishments and contributions in the following eight areas – arts, business, education, government, sciences, social services, volunteerism and women on the rise.
Kendra is one of three women honored in the “Women on the Rise” category for her community involvement throughout northwest Ohio.
“A YWCA Milestone recognition for community involvement is a great honor,” Kendra shares. “I’ve felt fortunate in discovering my love for working in community early on and incorporating that into my personal and professional life. For the past 16 years, I have had the opportunity to engage with, volunteer in and support great neighborhoods, communities and residents. To have that passion and commitment recognized by the Toledo community is very special.”
The YWCA of northwest Ohio’s goal is to increase community awareness and appreciation for the diverse contributions of women leaders in northwest Ohio. In total, this event has honored more than 150 women in the region.
Kendra has been with our ministry since 2020 as vice president of community health.
In her role, she is responsible for strategic leadership and oversight of community health programs and investments for the health system.
Prior to her role with us, Kendra worked at ProMedica as the director of social determinants of health, and in the nonprofit sector as an executive prioritizing equitable community development and advocating for affordable housing, especially for seniors and people living with developmental disabilities.
Kendra serves on a number of boards in the Toledo community and as a member of the Community Advisory Council to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.
Kendra was formally recognized at an awards luncheon in downtown Toledo on March 30. Way to go, Kendra!
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