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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

105th Ohio BPW Conference Celebrates Women’s Achievements and Leadership
Columbus, OH – May 17, 2025 — The Ohio Business and Professional Women (BPW) held its
105th annual conference on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Nationwide Conference Center.
The event brought together members from chapters across Ohio, leaders, and professionals to
celebrate accomplishments, foster connections, and empower women in business and
professional life.

The conference marked the close of the 2024–2025 term, led by President Amelia Taggart
(Ohio Valley) and the Executive Committee: President-elect Lora Manon (Lancaster), Vice
President Chandra Forshey Ontko (Guernsey/Noble County), Treasurer Brenda Anders
(Lancaster), Recording Secretary Renee Butler (Youngstown), Corresponding Secretary Karen
McCready (Ashtabula), and Parliamentarian Phyllis Riccadonna (Ohio Valley). In her opening
remarks, President Taggart thanked Conference Chair Sara Lane (Ohio Valley) and the
planning committee for organizing the event.

Awards and Recognition:
 

Ohio BPW honored several members for their outstanding service:  Charisse Kellums (Vermilion): Joyce M. Davis Distinguished Member Award, Tomma Bordenkircher (Coshocton): Kathy Kellums Mentorship & Encouragement Award, The conference also featured the 2025 Individual Development Winner, Carol S. Holton (Toledo), who presented her speech on Ohio’s gerrymandering challenges.  Local chapters were recognized for their commitment to delivering meaningful programs that reflect and uphold BPW’s core values.

Guest Speakers:
Attendees heard from inspiring speakers, including:
Amanda Darrow (Ohio Valley), business owner and author of Shift Mindset: For Mothers
Holly Lewis (Ohio Valley), Navy veteran and American Legion officer
The Honorable Jennifer Brunner, Ohio Supreme Court Justice, who delivered the keynote on
BPW’s ongoing importance in advancing women’s roles in leadership and public service
Leadership Transition:

The event concluded with the ceremonial passing of the pin from outgoing President Taggart to
2025–2026 President Lora Manon, marking the start of Ohio BPW's next chapter.
About Ohio BPW
Ohio BPW promotes the interests of women in business and their professions through
advocacy, leadership development, and networking opportunities. To learn more about the
organization or to become a member, visit https://www.bpwohio.org

Media Contact:
Dee Kovach
Membership Chair, Ohio BPW
deekovach@att.net