Crystal Allen

Boys and Girls Club of Dayton

Crystal R. 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 is 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 / AFLCMC 

Emilee Ambrose is the current President and CEO of the Junior League of Dayton (2025-26), 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 (2023) and was recently recognized as a Dayton Business Journal "Forty Under 40" winner (2025).

Emilee holds degrees in History of Art & Architecture and Anthropology from Miami University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Baltimore. A seasoned traveler, she’s explored nearly 30 countries from India to Italy, where she admits her favorite pastime is visiting art museums, savoring street pizza and “researching” local wines. When she isn’t people-watching at the airport, she delights in cooking cozy meals and savoring every moment with her husband, two kids and their Bernedoodle, Dottie—her favorite reasons to come home to Dayton.

Rebecca (Becky) Beckman 

Dayton VA Medical Center 

Dr. 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 is 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, 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%. While these accomplishments are significant, 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 is her fire, her purpose and her love. Her passion for serving others continues to inspire everyone around her and fuels the organization’s ongoing impact in the community.

Johanna Hartley Routsong

Messer Construction

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 to her community. She currently serves on the board of i70/75 Development Association, chairs the volunteerism committee 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 / Eveolve 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 personally and professionally 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. Under her leadership, Evolve has grown into a multifaceted collective that hosts mastermind-style networking meetings, social gatherings and women’s retreats— all designed to create space for women to connect, be seen and rise together.

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 with clarity, confidence and strategy. Her passion for storytelling and mentoring shines through in every project, encouraging women to use their voice, own their story and lead with purpose.

Beyond her business ventures, Angel is deeply committed to community service. She volunteers for her local Toastmasters club, actively supports church events in the Dayton area and frequently gives back to her hometown of Franklin, Ohio, by picking up food donated by large grocery stores to the local food pantry and organizing yard clean-up efforts for elderly neighbors. Her dedication to service is rooted in her belief that leadership begins with showing up, giving back and lifting others.

Angel also serves as the COO of H7 Network, a national business networking organization, and is a respected voice in the fields of public speaking, leadership development and women’s empowerment.

Her work continues to inspire a ripple effect of connection, collaboration and courageous action among women across the country.

Chelsea Kohut 

Second Chance Staffing 

My name is Chelsea Kohut, and I’m the grateful CEO of Second Chance Staffing, located here in Dayton, Ohio. Our mission is to help individuals from all walks of life find meaningful careers or re-enter the workforce with dignity and hope. We believe no one should be defined by their past, nor should it hinder their rehabilitation or future potential. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of working with individuals in recovery, re-entry and those rebuilding after incarceration. Recently, our mission has expanded to serve anyone in the community who simply needs their own “second chance.”

What led me here — and what I truly owe this nomination to — is my now seven-year journey in recovery. As I have many more years ahead of me to walk this path, to this point it has changed everything for me. It’s given me the strength to turn pain into purpose and build something greater than myself. Today, I have 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, if I can do it, anyone can.

I am deeply honored to be nominated for WIBN To Watch in 2026, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Kate from The Dayton Foodbank for believing in me and my mission. You will forever be appreciated for this nomination.

Appreciation goes a long way in the workforce, and we pride ourselves 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, I have built a diverse career spanning both non-profit and for-profit sectors. My extensive background includes financial management, reporting, budgeting and strategic planning, allowing me to bring a well-rounded perspective to every organization I support. I am proud to have served in leadership and collaborative roles that have driven fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth. I am currently the Senior Vice-President in Finance and Contracting at SOCHE, Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education, and have worked at SOCHE for over 12 years. I am also on the Board of Trustees for The Woman’s Club of Dayton Foundation, currently serving as the Treasurer and Grant Writer.

I own a small Accounting/Bookkeeping company that I opened in 1994 to be able to work from home with my small children and am still working with 4 small businesses doing payroll and bookkeeping. I am also an independent demonstrator for Stampin’ Up as my creative outlet is making cards and creating scrapbooks.

I graduated from the University of Dayton with a BS in Business Administration and Sinclair Community College with an AA in General Studies. On a personal note, I have been married for over 33 years and am the proud parent of three adult children and a grandparent to one wonderful granddaughter. My commitment to family and community reflects the values I bring to my professional life—integrity, dedication and long-term vision.

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 14 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. Lisa’s professionalism, reliability and sharp attention to detail have made her a trusted and respected presence throughout state government.

Her deep understanding of government protocols and unwavering commitment to public service allow her to anticipate needs, proactively solve problems and contribute meaningfully to the administration’s goals. Whether preparing briefing materials, drafting official commendations on behalf of the Governor and Lt. Governor or coordinating logistics for statewide public events, Lisa’s contributions are felt every day across the state of Ohio.

Prior to her public service, Lisa built a 30-year career at The Reynolds and Reynolds Company in Dayton, Ohio, where she served as Senior Executive Assistant to the President, CEO and Chairman of the Board. Her experience in executive support at the highest levels has shaped a career defined by excellence, integrity and an unwavering commitment to service.

In her free time, Lisa enjoys traveling, finding incredible antiques and always helping others. She is married to her lifelong friend and husband Kevin for over 27 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 Manager. 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 their cause to provide meals made with love in any way she can.

Colleen Oakes 

Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) 

Colleen Oakes is the Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives at the Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board. In this role, she leads media relations, marketing, branding and special projects that help shine a spotlight on behavioral health. Before stepping into this position, she managed the Montgomery County Prevention Coalition, building partnerships and substance use prevention efforts across the community. Colleen holds a Masters degree in Communication from the University of Dayton and is an Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist. She stays active in her field and community, serving on the Women’s Board for Dayton Children’s Hospital, advising both the Brain Health Collective and the Statewide Prevention Coalition Association and managing the Greater Dayton Brain Health Foundation. A proud Chicago native (the accent still sneaks through), Colleen now lives in Miamisburg with her husband, two kids and their energetic fur-baby, Scoochie.

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.

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.

Lindsay Pitstick

Moxie By Nature, LLC 

Lindsay Pitstick, M.Ed., certified Gallup CliftonStrengths Coach, partners with local businesses and organizations—both for profit and nonprofit—to strengthen teams and leaders through coaching, consulting and training. Her work focuses on team dynamics and collaboration, employee retention and hiring, culture development and rebuilding and board development and change management. At the core of her approach is the Gallup CliftonStrengths® assessment, using its principles to help individuals and teams unlock their potential and perform at their best. With a background in higher education and corporate recruiting, as well as a passion for building people-centered workplaces, Lindsay has become a trusted resource for organizations across the Miami Valley. She is especially committed to supporting leaders who want to create environments where people thrive. Originally from south central Tennessee, Lindsay now lives in Centerville with her husband—also a business owner—their three (soon to be four) children, and two dogs.

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. 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 is a charismatic speaker, effective workshops and training facilitator, with exceptional consultative and leadership skills. Ashima excels at implementing complex technology initiatives, driving change, developing teams, leading organizational transformations and achieving proven results. Ashima has worked in Senior Director / VP IT roles with multiple fortune 500 organizations. Her expertise is in the field of Program Leadership, Project Management, AI Strategy, Application Development, Digital Transformation, Agile Development, Organizational Change Management and Business Analysis.

After 20 years in corporate IT world, Ashima started her own consulting company called Ayuka LLC (ayukaconsulting.com). Ashima’s passion is to help individuals understand and navigate change from technical transformations ensuring long term sustainability and adoption of technology. Embracing change enables organizations and individuals to thrive, fostering a cultural shift that drives organizational success. With Organizational Change Management best practices in mind, Ashima manages high complexity technical transformations, including Artificial Intelligence Powered Automation, Data Modernization, Cloud Migrations, ERP implementation and Product / Application Development with a human centered approach. 

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 non-profit 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 2020mand 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.

Turning another passion into a business venture, 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 later earned the DayTony Award for Best Dance Ensemble in professional theater.

Jessica is a volunteer for numerous community events and organizations. Among them, she currently serves as the President-Elect of the Archbishop Alter Marching Knights, where both of her children are members. In her valuable free time, she maintains mental health by long distance running, completing six marathons and two ultra marathons. 

Julia Walters 

Ever After Entertainment 

Julia Walters is a 21-year old performer, entrepreneur dedicated to making magic happen for the children and families of Ohio.

She is 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 is 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, serving as VP Elect of Community Engagement for the Junior League of Dayton and 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.

Amy Marzluff 

Breakthrough Coaching Center 

Amy 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.

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 is 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.

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 is 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 is 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.