2026 Women to Watch Honorees
Crystal Allen
Boys and Girls Club of Dayton
Crystal Allen is a visionary leader, powerhouse speaker and change agent—redefining the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton as a regional force for innovation, equity and impact. As president & CEO, she’s leading a historic transformation—mobilizing an $18M campaign to build a transformative Club and Life & Workforce Development Center. With decades in youth development, Crystal believes every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their zip code or family dynamic. A proud Central State University alumna, she serves on the Board of Trustees for Sinclair Community College and Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s President’s Advisory Council. Her leadership has earned local, state and national recognition. Anchored by faith and fueled by grit, Crystal is a mother to five amazing daughters, an avid camper and lover of bold eyewear—proof that authenticity and audacity change the lens through which others see the world.
Emilee Ambrose
United States Air Force / Junior League of Dayton
Emilee Ambrose is the former president and CEO of the Junior League of Dayton, guiding the organization in its mission to develop women to do a world of good and forge exceptional community leaders. In her professional life, she serves as the logistics chief managing the $8.2B C-130J Foreign Military Sales production portfolio at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, fostering international security partnerships and safeguarding national security. With a heart for community service and a passionate patron of the arts, Emilee serves on the Dayton Art Institute’s Associate Board with her husband and on the newly launched Springboro Arts Council. She’s a proud graduate of Leadership Dayton and was recently recognized as a Dayton Business Journal "Forty Under 40" winner. Emilee holds degrees in History of Art & Architecture and Anthropology from Miami University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Baltimore. She savors every moment with her husband, two kids and their Bernedoodle, Dottie.
Rebecca (Becky) Beckman
Dayton VA Medical Center
Dr. Becky Beckman is a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field. A Veteran of the Navy Nurse Corps, she currently serves as the Chief Nurse Executive and Associate Director of Patient Care Services at the Dayton VA Medical Center, where she’s deeply committed to supporting improvements in Veteran healthcare. In 2025, she earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Cincinnati, complemented by a master’s in nursing leadership and management from North Park University (2010). Becky is a graduate of the Federal Executive Institute (2023) and the VA Improvement Advisor Academy (2018). Passionate about evidence-based practice and quality improvement, she actively supports shared governance structures to enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes for patients. Married to a Navy retiree and a Veteran herself, her personal connection to the military community fuels her passion for advancing healthcare for veterans, ensuring they receive the high-quality care they deserve.
Kate Bostdorff
City of Centerville
Kate Bostdorff serves as the City of Centerville’s communications director, where she leads efforts to share the stories of local government and strengthen connections across the community. She also serves as general manager of The Golf Club at Yankee Trace, overseeing the city’s premier golf destination and Benham’s Grove, a historic gathering place that recently completed a transformative $10 million renovation. An Emmy Award-winning journalist, Kate previously anchored the evening news at WHIO-TV, the nation’s top-ranked CBS affiliate, before bringing her storytelling and leadership skills to public service. She holds an MBA from Ohio University, a bachelor’s degree from Ball State University and was honored to serve as a Fulbright Scholar in Indonesia. Beyond her professional roles, Kate is most proud to be mom to her eight-year-old son, Charlie.
Alexandria Burns
Bottom Line
Originally from Tampa, Florida, Alexandria Burns is a dynamic and purpose-driven leader dedicated to creating meaningful pathways of opportunity through education and community collaboration. As the director of programs & operations for Bottom Line Ohio, she leads with vision and strategy, designing student-centered initiatives that expand college access and long-term success. With a Master’s in Education from Marquette University and a Bachelor’s in Public Health from the University of South Florida, Alexandria brings over 15 years of experience building high-performing teams, launching large-scale programs and developing future leaders. Her career spans roles in higher education and workforce development, where she has honed her expertise in operational excellence, strategic planning and organizational growth. Passionate about empowering others to lead with purpose, Alexandria is recognized for her ability to simplify complexity, inspire confidence and cultivate environments where people and ideas thrive
Michelle Collier
Good Neighbor House
Michelle Collier serves as the executive director of Good Neighbor House (GNH), where she leads with dedication, compassion and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. In her role, she provides strong leadership in developing and implementing organizational goals and procedures across fundraising, personnel, programs and services. She also serves as the primary lead for building strategic partnerships, fostering community relationships and ensuring the organization maintains the highest standards of compliance and integrity. Under Michelle’s guidance, GNH has experienced remarkable growth—expanding from 7 to 23 employees and increasing overall revenue and investments by nearly 600%. Michelle remains grounded, attributing success to the collective effort of her dedicated team and the supportive community that believes in the organization’s vision. For Michelle, GNH is more than a workplace—it’s her fire, her purpose and her love. Her passion for serving others continues to inspire everyone around her and fuels the organization’s ongoing community impact.
Megan Dunn Peters
Cross Street Partners
As the marketing and community partnerships manager for Cross Street Partners, Megan Dunn Peters leads marketing, communications and engagement efforts for the Dayton Arcade. She manages the Arcade’s marketing and social media initiatives, develops community partnerships and works closely with tenants, stakeholders and the public to create a vibrant and connected downtown community — a mission close to her heart as a native Daytonian. Megan holds degrees from the University of Dayton and American College of Education. She also is heavily involved in the Irish dancing community, teaching at the Dwyer School of Irish Dance in Centerville, coaching the University of Dayton Irish Dance team and serving on the board of the Collegiate Irish Dance Association.
Johanna Hartley Routsong
Messer Construction Co.
A proud Daytonian, Johanna Hartley Routsong is committed to growing her community and network through leadership. As senior business development manager at Messer Construction Co., she maintains client relationships, develops new business opportunities and drives regional growth strategies. Johanna is passionate about giving back. She currently serves on the board of i70/75 Development Association, chairs the volunteerism committee and the executive women’s council for the Dayton Chamber, is an associate board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters, supports University of Dayton's Kappa Delta Sorority chapter as an advisory board member, and acts as class representative for her Leadership Dayton class. She was honored as one of the University of Dayton Alumni Association’s “10 Under 10” in 2024, recognizing her civic engagement and early career leadership. Johanna feels fortunate to have many role models throughout her personal and professional career and thanks them for helping her achieve this milestone as Top 25 Women to Watch.
Angel Hicks
H7 Network / Evolve Women's Collective / Infinite Impressions Publishing
Angel Hicks is a dynamic entrepreneur, speaker and community leader dedicated to empowering women through authentic connection, confident growth and collaborative leadership. As the founder & CEO of Evolve Women’s Collective, Angel has built a thriving national movement focused on helping professional and entrepreneurial women grow through meaningful relationships and supportive communities. A 2024 Honored Listee in Marquis Who’s Who, Angel is widely recognized for her influence in the realms of leadership development, women’s networking and personal growth. Angel is also a two-time Amazon Best-Selling Author and a Certified Publisher and Author’s Guide. Through her company, Infinite Impressions Publishing, she helps aspiring authors bring their stories to life. Angel also volunteers for her local Toastmasters club, actively supports church events and frequently gives back to her hometown of Franklin, Ohio, by assisting with food donations and organizing yard clean-up efforts for elderly neighbors. Angel also serves as the COO of H7 Network.
Chelsea Kohut
Second Chance Staffing
Chelsea Kohut is the CEO of Second Chance Staffing, which helps individuals from all walks of life find meaningful careers or re-enter the workforce with dignity and hope. The team believes no one should be defined by their past, nor should it hinder their rehabilitation or future potential. Over the years, the business has had the privilege of working with individuals in recovery, re-entry and those rebuilding after incarceration. Recently, the mission has expanded to serve anyone in the community who simply needs his or her own “second chance.” Chelsea is in her own seven-year recovery journey and, today, she has the privilege of walking beside others who are rebuilding their lives — advocating for them, showing up for them and reminding them that redemption is possible. Chelsea prides herself on making sure every single employee knows they are valued. That’s how long-term success is built — through gratitude, dignity and genuine care for others.
Deborah Rae Lyle
Graceworks
Deb Lyle has dedicated 35 years to serving individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. She leads a team of 350+ staff across 44 community-based homes and two day habilitation programs. In her 27-year career, Graceworks Enhanced Living has expanded significantly from 16 homes to serving communities across Montgomery, Greene, Butler & Hamilton Counties. Beyond Graceworks, Deb co-founded and chairs the Values and Faith Alliance, a coalition advocating for policy improvements for individuals with disabilities in Ohio. She currently presides over the Lutheran Services of America Disability Network, representing more than 40 providers nationally. Deb's exceptional leadership was demonstrated as she successfully navigated community opposition to secure approval for a Wyoming, Ohio home, educating the public and dispelling misconceptions about disability services. A graduate of Leadership Dayton's 2013 class, Deb also actively supports the military community and volunteers regularly with local nonprofits, exemplifying servant leadership in all aspects of her life.
Karen Manzo
Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE)
With over 30 years of experience in accounting and finance, Karen Manzo built a diverse career spanning both non-profit and for-profit sectors. Her extensive background allows Karen to bring a well-rounded perspective to every organization she supports. Karen’s currently the senior vice-president in finance and contracting at Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE), and has worked there for over 12 years. Karen’s also on the Board of Trustees for The Woman’s Club of Dayton Foundation, currently serving as the treasurer and grant writer. Karen also owns a small accounting/bookkeeping company that she opened in 1994. In addition, she’s an independent demonstrator for Stampin’ Up. Karen graduated from the University of Dayton with a BS in Business Administration and Sinclair Community College with an AA in General Studies. Karen’s been married for over 33 years and is the proud parent of three adult children and a grandparent to one wonderful granddaughter.
Lisa Martin
Governor Mike Dewine's Office
Lisa Martin is a seasoned administrative professional with a distinguished career spanning over four decades in both the public and private sectors. She joined Ohio government in May 2011 and currently serves as an executive assistant, bringing with her over 15 years of dedicated service to the Ohio Governor’s Office. In her current role, Lisa is known for her exceptional ability to support executive leadership and ensure the smooth operation of a fast-paced, high-profile government environment. Her work includes coordinating communication across state agencies, handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion, and facilitating interactions with legislators, stakeholders and the public. Prior to her public service, Lisa built a 30-year career at The Reynolds and Reynolds Company, where she served as senior executive assistant to the presidents, CEOs and the chairman of the board. Lisa enjoys traveling, finding incredible antiques and always helping others. She’s married to her lifelong friend and husband, Kevin, for over 28 years.
Taylor Naragon
Miami Valley Meals, Inc.
Taylor Naragon is a Dayton-area native who grew up in Fairborn, Ohio. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography from Miami University in 2017. Upon graduation, Taylor sought to find a way to combine her passions for both art and food. Her experience in hospitality led her to become the event sales coordinator at Dayton Live, where she managed private events large and small, from luncheons to wedding receptions. Mutual connections with the Miami Valley Meals founders led her to join their team in December of 2020, beginning as an administrative assistant and now, the full-time communications director. In her role, Taylor brings a creative and strategic eye to graphic design, social media management, fundraising and volunteer relations. She enjoys sharing the mission of Miami Valley Meals and promoting its cause to provide meals made with love in any way she can
Colleen Oakes
Montgomery County ADAMHS
Colleen Oakes is the director of communications and strategic initiatives at the Montgomery County ADAMHS Board, where she leads communications, marketing, public relations and strategic initiatives focused on behavioral health and community impact. Previously, she managed the Montgomery County Prevention Coalition, a network of more than 200 volunteers advancing substance use prevention and mental health promotion. Colleen holds a Master’s Degree in Communications from the University of Dayton and is an Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist. Colleen is deeply involved in the community, serving on the Women’s Board for Dayton Children’s Hospital, the board of the Fairy Godmother Foundation and several local advisory boards. She was named the 2024 Prevention Advocate of the Year by the Ohio Prevention Professionals Association and was recently honored as a member of the Dayton Business Journal’s 2026 40 Under 40 class. Her most important role is being a wife to Cody, and mom to her two children—with another on the way.
Brittany Otto
Cox Media Group Ohio
Brittany Otto is the morning news anchor and news director for WHIO Radio as well as the mid-day jock on K99.1 FM. She was born and raised in Tipp City and resides there today with her husband, Micah, son, Bryton, and daughter, Makena. Brittany regularly volunteers at Tipp City Global Methodist Church, serving as a member of both the communication and hospitality teams. Brittany is the treasurer of the Tippecanoe Football Parents and volunteers for the Tipp City Music Boosters. She also volunteers for Tipp City School events, such as career day and ‘Right to Read’ week. Her son and daughter inspire her as she strives to set an example for them to work hard and give back to the community they call home.
Lindsay Pitstick
Moxie By Nature, LLC
Lindsay Pitstick, M.Ed., is the founder of Moxie by Nature, a leadership and organizational development consulting firm that helps leaders and teams create clarity, strengthen communication and work better together. Powered by Gallup's CliftonStrengths®, Lindsay partners with organizations to uncover what’s already right with their people and transform that insight into practical strategies that improve collaboration, role clarity and performance. Before founding Moxie by Nature, Lindsay built her career in corporate recruiting and higher education, where she developed a passion for helping people discover their strengths and thrive at work. Lindsay holds a Master of Education degree, is a Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, a Leadership Dayton graduate and a Dayton Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. Outside of work, Lindsay is a wife and proud mom of four. She’s actively involved in her church, and you can usually find her cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers.
Chanda Reedy
L.A. Reedy Plumbing / Those Guys Handyman Services
Chanda Reedy is a dynamic entrepreneur and community leader, proudly owning and operating two thriving small businesses — L.A. Reedy Plumbing, a long-standing, family-owned company serving Warren County since 1964, and Those Guys Handyman Services, a fast-growing home-repair brand known for reliability and heart. Beyond her business success, Chanda is deeply rooted in her community, passionately supporting local youth sports programs and proudly sponsoring performing arts initiatives that empower young talent to shine. Her leadership blends business savvy with genuine care for people, creating a ripple effect of integrity, hard work and hometown pride. Above all, she is a devoted wife and proud mom of two, finding balance between entrepreneurship and family life with grace and grit. Chanda’s journey reflects her belief that strong businesses—and stronger communities—are built through dedication, compassion and a hands-on commitment to helping others thrive
Ruth Reveal
Muse Machine
Ruth Reveal joined Muse Machine in July 2022 as its first alum to serve as executive director. A teacher, performer and arts administrator, she brings experience in curriculum design, artistic leadership and arts-integrated program development to the organization. Previously, she was director of education and then chief learning officer at the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, where she launched sensory-friendly performances and deepened integration of the arts into classrooms. Ruth taught high school science in Chicago Public Schools, chairing both the science and fine arts departments and developing project-based curricula in biology, chemistry and environmental science. She graduated summa cum laude from Agnes Scott College with a BA in neuroscience and music and earned an MS with distinction in music, mind and brain from Goldsmiths, University of London. A harpist and classically trained singer, Ruth is a lifelong advocate for the arts and their power to transform young people’s lives.
Ashima Sharma
Ayuka Consulting
Ashima Sharma is the founder & CEO of Ayuka AI & Data. She’s an engaging thought leader, an innovative technologist, keynote and workshop speaker, with a proven track record in driving AI adoption. Under Ashima’s leadership, Ayuka works on helping businesses automate their workflows with AI solutions ensuring data readiness and process optimization. With over 22 years of experience in IT senior leadership at Fortune 500 organizations, Ashima has developed practical expertise in Tech Strategy, Application Development, Digital Transformation, Agile Development, Organizational Change Management (OCM) and Data Modernization. Ashima holds certifications in AI from Cornell University, multiple Project Management Institute and Microsoft Certified Professional certifications and Change Management Certification from Prosci. Ashima was awarded The Circuit’s Successful Woman in Tech honor and Dayton Business Journal’s 40 under 40. She also serves as president of the Dayton Chapter of PMI. Additionally, Ashima founded Women In Artificial Intelligence-FORWARD as a nonprofit to further learning and interest of women in AI, Tech and Innovation.
Tracey Tomme
Dayton Society of Natural History
Tracey was raised in Texas but has lived in multiple places with her husband for his Air Force career and then for her nonprofit leadership roles. She is mother to one son who is a Marine aviator. She enjoys gardening, watercolor and being outdoors with her husband and their Australian Shepherd. Leading the Dayton Society of Natural History, which includes the Boonshoft Museum and SunWatch, is a dream come true for her. She enjoys the challenges and variety of having a zoo, natural history museum, planetarium and large collections. She has made major updates at both locations with more yet to come. She serves on the Destination Dayton board, is a member of the Wright-Patt Spouses Club, Dayton Garden Club, Leadership Dayton Class of 2020 and is an avid opera, ballet, symphony and Human Race Theater attendee. Tracey enjoys mentoring others as they grow their strengths.
Jessica Vu
Bites of Nostalgia & VuDo Swing
Jessica Vu is a Greater Dayton native and owner of Bites of Nostalgia, a gluten-free bakery. Diagnosed with celiac disease in 2014, Jessica turned her passion for baking into a mission to ensure others with similar needs can enjoy safe, nostalgic treats. Her products are available at Dorothy Lane Market locations, and her culinary skills have been featured by the Dayton Daily News, CNN.com, FOX 45 in the Morning and Living Dayton. In addition, Jessica and her husband, Gus, have taught Swing and Lindy Hop dancing through a partnership with the Beavercreek Parks and Recreation Department for more than two decades. They hosted Dayton’s first Lindy Hop Exchange in 2005 and earned the DayTony Award for Best Dance Ensemble in professional theater. Jessica is a volunteer for numerous community events and organizations, including president of the Archbishop Alter Marching Knights. Jessica’s also completed six marathons and two ultra marathons.
Julia Walters
Ever After Entertainment
Julia Walters is a performer, entrepreneur dedicated to making magic happen for Ohio children and families. She’s the proud owner of Ever After Entertainment, a boutique character entertainment company known for its authenticity and stellar performances. Since launching Ever After Entertainment in January, she has taken a fully hands-on approach to building a brand known for theatrical excellence, inclusivity and integrity. Her true passion lies in community outreach and serving underrepresented communities with her team. Ever After Entertainment has partnered with The Ronald McDonald House of Dayton to visit families quarterly, made magic with Diabetes Dayton's "Camp Komanche" and created an immersive princess experience with Caterpillars to Butterflies and The Main House Events tailored to neurodivergent children and their families. When she's not leading a team of highly trained magic-makers, you might find her teaching Kindergarten, performing regionally or baking a pie for her friends. She looks forward to sharing a slice with you soon.
Hadley Williams
Elements IV Interiors
Hadley Williams is an account executive with Elements IV Interiors, where she has worked for three years since returning to Dayton from Nashville. She’s passionate about helping clients bring their visions to life through thoughtful interior space planning, serving as the key liaison between clients and the Elements IV Design and Operations teams. With strong attention to detail and project management skills, Hadley ensures projects run smoothly from concept to completion. Beyond her professional role, she is deeply engaged in the Dayton community participating in various local organizations. Her community involvement fuels her passion for contributing to the greater good of the region. Outside of work, Hadley enjoys exploring antique shops and spending time in her backyard with her husband, Kyle, and their chocolate lab, Leiper.
Volunteer of the Year
Amy Marzluff
Breakthrough Coaching Center
Amy Marzluff is a Certified Dream Manager®, Life and Health Coach and speaker who helps women remember who they are, what they want and what’s still possible for their lives. For 20 years, she’s helped people break out of “stuck,” gain clarity on their next chapter and turn their dreams into real, actionable plans—personally and professionally. She’s known for asking the questions that change everything… and for helping people walk away with a renewed sense of purpose, energy and direction.
Jeanne Porter Career Achievement Award
Myla Cardona-Jones
Brunner Literacy Center
Myla Cardona-Jones is a proud Dayton native and currently serves as CEO of the Brunner Literacy Center and executive director of the Kettering Backpack Program. She’s also an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati. Deeply passionate about literacy and food equity, Myla is dedicated to creating access and opportunity for all, making her dual roles a natural fit. Myla serves on several boards and has been recognized for her work in the education, legal, social justice and nonprofit industries. Myla has been married for 16 years and is a proud mom to her 15-year-old son. She enjoys discovering new cuisines, coaching basketball and traveling the world with her family.
Sandie Geib Ambassador of the Year
Patty Anderson
Abbey Credit Union
Patty Anderson serves as director of community relations at Abbey Credit Union, bringing more than 20 years of experience in financial services and 10 years of dedicated service to Abbey. She’s a proud ambassador for Women in Business Networking (WiBN), the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce and the WINGs Committee with the Vandalia Chamber of Commerce. She’s also a past ambassador for the Troy Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Patty represents the Dayton area through the Ohio Credit Union League CU4Kids Outreach Alliance, helping support fundraising efforts for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Patty’s also a graduate of the Troy Leadership Program and The Paul Duke Academy for Community Leaders.