YWCA Woman of Achievement honorees announced
Mar. 2—YWCA Clinton has announced the 2024 honorees for the 51st annual YWCA Woman of Achievement Awards. These nominations were voted on by the Board of Directors and previous Woman of Achievement Honorees.
"These remarkable women are pillars of generosity and dedication," said YWCA Marketing Coordinator Jen Bruce. "With empowering hearts and nurturing spirits, they ignite inspiration and embody the essence of community through the power of unity."
The YWCA will be recognizing the 2024 honorees from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at the Tuscany Event Center at Rastrelli's.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at ywcaclinton.org/woman-of-achievement/ or by calling the YWCA front desk at 563-242-2110 x 300.
The honorees are:
—Brenna Meyermann, Young Woman of Achievement Honoree: As a senior at Northeast High School in Goose Lake, Meyermann has a 4.0 grade-point average and is active in her school, her community and beyond. She is the Iowa Future Business Leaders of America District 4 vice president and travels to schools across Eastern Iowa encouraging community involvement by students. She is the Northeast Student Council president and she fosters inclusivity and confidence among her peers.
"Her involvement and enthusiasm in speech and theatrical productions has given students who may not have been comfortable performing in front of others the encouragement and confidence to succeed," said nominator Sister Theresa Judge, OSF.
—Gabi Torres, Civic/Community Woman of Achievement Honoree: Originally from Clinton, she pursued her passion for literature and the arts at prestigious universities before returning home. Here she enriches the lives of others through art and community engagement both as a librarian and with a local nonprofit.
Torres has created transformative public art projects. "Paint it Back" revitalized neglected space and fostered creativity within the community. She advocates for environmental consciousness and champions sustainable art practices while educating others on eco-friendly alternatives. In 2023, she was the recipient of the Governor's Arts Award.
"I have not met many like her who will not think twice about assisting someone in need no matter the situation," said nominator Connie Vulich
—Tracy Reynolds, Professional Woman of Achievement Honoree: Reynolds oversees multiple bank locations and is known for her proactive approach to challenges as well as fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement among her team. She balances her career, family and civic duties, while actively contributing to various community organizations. She serves as a volunteer on boards and supporting fundraising efforts.
"Many women look up to her and see her as a strong role model, particularly young women, who are just beginning their professional careers," said nominator LaRee Mangler. Her impact extends well beyond the workplace, and she will leave a lasting legacy of service and dedication.
—Mary Bousselot, County Woman of Achievement Honoree: Bousselot is a lifelong resident of Clinton County and brings over three decades of teaching experience to her role as an educator.
"At the end of the day, there is no better sense of accomplishment than to reflect on those who have spent a year in the nominee's classroom, knowing that they are a contributing member of society who have listened to the nominee's stories and words of wisdom and put them into practice" said nominator Sharon Roling.
Bousselot has a deep commitment to her students' well-being and academic success and creates a nurturing classroom environment that is grounded in empathy and personalized attention, Roling added.
She is a mentor and inspiration to both her colleagues and students who is known to foster positive relationships with families and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the school community.
—Mary Jensen, Religious Woman of Achievement Honoree: Jensen has dedicated her life to service, education and family. As a preschool director, she approaches each day with fairness, expertise and a deep devotion to encouraging young minds.
"(She) always reaches for the stars, inspires others (no matter their role or situation), and serves everyone around her. She has been a model of service for thousands, at every age for over 20 years," said nominator Rhea Wright. "Her problem-solving skills and compassionate leadership have earned her the respect of the students and peers.
She is also renowned for her support and generosity within her church and throughout the community, Wright added. The legacy of her inspiration and dedication continues to impact countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on those she serves.
—Thelma Schaver, Unsung Hero/YWCA Honoree: Schaver holds a degree in physical education and health from Luther College and Sauk Valley Community College. She is deeply involved in her faith community at River Church and finds joy in traveling, the outdoors, the County Fair and cheering on the Cubs.
As a breast cancer survivor, she is an advocate for Above + Beyond Cancer program at the YWCA Clinton where she is also known as a friendly face that greets you from behind the front desk. Her warmth and encouragement light up every room, making her a beloved presence wherever she goes. Though not one to seek the spotlight, her impact resonates deeply with all who have the privilege to know her.
"To sum her up, Thelma is everything we all strive to be," said nominator Sister Kathleen Holland.
—Déjà vu owned by Lou Ray, Business Honoree: A cornerstone of downtown Clinton for almost 15 years, Ray owns and operates a thriving retail store that started with home décor then grew to something more. Not only does she offer a unique blend of items, but she has opened an Airbnb above her shop.
With a keen eye for design and adaptability, she continually evolves her business to meet changing needs.
She is committed to collaboration, mentors new business owners, serves on the Grow Clinton Board, and advocates for initiatives like Shop Local and other community events. She believes in a vibrant local economy and supporting her fellow entrepreneurs in a culture of mutual success.
"She understands the important of competition and realizes that, by supporting each other, the Clinton area will continue to grow and thrive," said Pam Petersen.
To view a list of past Woman of Achievement Honorees, please visit the YWCA website at ywcaclinton.org.
