Junior League of Cleveland Celebrates Inaugural Women of Impact Awards, Honors Community Leaders, and Awards $15,000 in Scholarships

April 15, 2026

The Junior League of Cleveland (JLC) proudly celebrates the resounding success of its Spring Together: Women of Impact Awards held on March 14th at the St. Clair Ballroom in downtown Cleveland – an inspiring and high-energy evening that brought together community leaders, advocates, and changemakers to honor the women shaping a stronger Northeast Ohio.

The event showcased the power of women’s leadership and collective impact, recognizing six extraordinary honorees whose work is transforming lives and strengthening the community across a range of critical areas.

2026 Women of Impact Award Recipients:

  • Civic Leadership Award – Divya Sridhar, RE Collective LLC
  • Community Catalyst Award – Laura Potter-Sadowski, Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity
  • Service Through Action Award – Tiffany Ashley, Merrick House
  • Equity in Health Award – Dr. Mirriam Knight, Destiny Connections LLC
  • NextGen Leader Award – LeAirra Lacey, Birthing Beautiful Communities
  • Torchbearer Award – Dr. Shamarah Hutchins, The Serene Corporation

“These remarkable women exemplify the very best of our community,” said Lisa Mayhugh, JLC President. “Their leadership, passion, and commitment to service are creating real, lasting change. We are proud to recognize their achievements and amplify their impact through this event.”

In addition to honoring established leaders, the Junior League of Cleveland also invested in the next generation of changemakers by awarding three $5,000 scholarships to emerging leaders committed to making a difference:

  • Jowan Moss
  • Elizabeth Semidei
  • Laquetta Washington

The evening highlighted not only individual achievements but also the broader mission of the Junior League of Cleveland – to develop women’s leadership and drive meaningful community impact through volunteerism, collaboration, and training.

Proceeds from the event directly support the League’s community programs and initiatives, ensuring continued investment in projects that address critical needs throughout Northeast Ohio.

“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Madison Stoneburner Simon, JLC Fundraiser Event Coordinator. “This event demonstrated what’s possible when women come together to support, celebrate, and uplift one another. We are thrilled with the overwhelming response and look forward to growing this signature event in the years to come.”

About the Junior League of Cleveland

The Junior League of Cleveland is an organization of women committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Since its founding in 1912, JLC has worked to improve the Northeast Ohio community through initiatives that address critical needs and empower women as civic leaders.