The YWCA established the Women of Distinction Awards to celebrate, recognize, and honor women, girls, and organizations who embody the YWCA mission to empower women and eliminate racism. The accomplishments of our extraordinary honorees reflect those aspirational yet attainable goals. We are deeply grateful for their service and look forward to celebrating them in front of our community.

2026 Honorees:

Rosel Schewel (posthumous) Philanthropist
Rosana Chaidez, President and CEO of NB Handy
April Rasmussen, Director of Forensic Nursing Centra
Dr. Ghislaine Lewis, Assoc. Prof., University of Lynchburg
Dr. Muriel Brown Mickles, Provost of CVCC
Lexie Tookes, Housing Case Manager Miriam’s House
Megan Huffman, GLCF Director of SHARE Greater Lynchburg

About Our Mission

YWCA Central Virginia is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

Founded in 1912 by a dedicated group of women, who had incidentally been told that creating an organization for women and by women would never work, YWCA Central Virginia has grown and adapted to meet the varying needs of the communities we serve. Today, YWCA Central Virginia serves the women, children, and families of Central Virginia — and area that includes the city of Lynchburg and seven surrounding counties — which includes 4,400 square miles and 400,000+ community members.

Women of Distinction Awards and Luncheon

Honoring extraordinary women whose leadership, service, and impact strengthen our community and inspire future generations.