Women of Color Foundation hosts Training and Leadership Development Institute and Awards Luncheon

The Women of Color Foundation held its fifth annual Training and Leadership Development Institute and Awards Luncheon on Thursday called, "Ensuring the Safety and Security of Family and Career: Strategies for Survival."

The "Empowering our Community to End Violence Against Women and Children" event included a day-long series of educational and networking forums.

Attendees heard from the region’s experts on domestic and sexual violence and learned about overcoming trauma, risk reduction and what resources are available to support survivors. Women were also urged to fight for their rights and use political power.

Moderators included Linda Dooley Johanek, Executive Director Domestic Violence Center of Greater Cleveland, and Megan O’Bryan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center.

WEWS proudly sponsored the event. NewsChannel5’s Kimberly Gill was the mistress of ceremonies for the luncheon and awards ceremony.

The annual event is held to facilitate collaboration, networking, mentoring, education, leadership development and training of women and girls of all colors -- and to present the 2010 Professional Women of the Year awards.

• 2010 Professional Woman of the Year (ISIS Award) -- Louise J. Gissendaner, Akron Market President, and Director Community Development for northeast Ohio, Fifth Third Bank

• 2010 Young Professional Woman of the Year (STAR Award) -- Bernett L.Williams, President and Chief Executive Officer
  Akron Urban League

• 2010 Stephanie Tubbs Jones Courage Award -- Tracy Bean Oliver, Director, Media, Ohio, Dominion East Ohio

For more information regarding other Women of Color Foundation events, go to newwomenofcolorfoundation.com.