YWCA Darien/Norwalk Announces 2014 Women of Distinction

The YWCA Darien/Norwalk has announced the six honorees for the 5th Annual Women of Distinction Awards and Luncheon on May 29, 2014 at Woodway Country Club. The distinguished honorees are: Jenny Schwartz, Mary Genco, Rhonda Kiest, Patricia Phillips, and Maryann Lehmann, MD.  Sloane Bessey will be honored as a Young Woman of Distinction, recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of a woman under 21 years of age.

The Women of Distinction Award is bestowed in recognition of the outstanding achievements of a select group of women. Local residents and business owners nominate women whose significant and unique contributions have made a difference in the Darien and Norwalk communities. The YWCA Darien/Norwalk Women of Distinction Nominations Committee reviews the nominations and selects the honorees.

“These six women, each in her own unique way, embody important traits embraced by the YWCA: leadership, perseverance, courage and service. They are trailblazers and we are proud to hold them up as role models for us and for our daughters," said YWCA Interim Executive Director Julie Forsyth.

"Women frequently work behind the scenes to forge stronger families and communities," added MariLu Cleary, Event Chair. "We at the YWCA are grateful for the opportunity to shine a light on these women and celebrate the differences they make every single day.”

William Raveis Real Estate, Darien Rowayton Bank and Darien Times are sponsoring the Women of Distinction Luncheon. Tickets for the luncheon will go on sale the first week of May and can be purchased in person at the YWCA Darien/Norwalk office at 49 Old Kings Highway North in Darien, by calling 203-655-2535, or by visiting ywcadariennorwalk.org.

The YWCA Darien/Norwalk is a non-profit organization dedicated to giving women the support and tools they need to transform their lives, be confident in their choices and raise healthy families.  Its national mission, eliminating racism and empowering women, translates locally into a vision to create opportunities for growth, leadership and empowerment for all women and families. The YWCA Darien/Norwalk is located at 49 Old King’s Highway North in Darien, CT.  For more information, please visit www.ywcadariennorwalk.org or call 655-2535.