YWCA Career Women of Achievement Luncheon
April 30 @ 11:30 am – 3:00 pm
Hard Rock Casino
Starting at $125

Attend the YWCA Career Women of Achievement Luncheon at Hard Rock Casino on April 30.
The YWCA Career Women of Achievement Luncheon was established in 1980 to increase community awareness and appreciation of the diverse contributions of women in the workforce and in the community. The luncheon has evolved into the YWCA’s largest fundraising event, sponsored by 120 companies and organizations each year, with an attendance of nearly 1,600. All proceeds directly benefit YWCA programs, supporting our mission to eliminate racism and empower women.
Upwards of 75 women are nominated to be Career Women of Achievement each year. An independent panel of 5 community leaders selects women who exemplify personal career success, dynamic leadership qualities, and the unique ability to serve as role models. Former honorees include artists, physicians, educators, execs, politicians, lawyers, human service workers, entrepreneurs, and law enforcement officers.
Emmy Award–winning journalist, documentarian and entrepreneur Soledad O’Brien will headline the 47th anniversary YWCA Career Women of Achievement Luncheon on April 30 at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, bringing her nationally recognized voice on leadership, equity and opportunity to one of the region’s most influential annual events.
Registration for the YWCA Career Women of Achievement Luncheon
Registration for the YWCA Career Women of Achievement Luncheon starts at $125. All proceeds from the luncheon directly benefit YWCA programs, supporting our mission to eliminate racism and empower women.
2026 YWCA Career Women of Achievement Honorees
- Nabila Ahmad | Americas Sales Leader | IBM
- Evie Alessandrini, MD | Chief Operating Officer | Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
- Debbie Brant | President & CEO | Cincinnati Ballet
- Julie Kirkpatrick, CDME | President & CEO | meetNKY
- Sheryl M.M. Long | City Manager | City of Cincinnati
- Michele O’Rourke | CEO | O’Rourke Wrecking Company
- J. Phenise Poole | SVP & Deputy General Counsel | Fifth Third Bank
- Cady Short-Thompson, Ph.D | President | Northern Kentucky University
- Susan Street Whaley | Chief Legal Officer and Secretary | P&G
- Kiana R. Trabue, MPH | President | HealthPath Foundation of Ohio
Hard Rock Casino Venue Details
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati houses an impressive array of over 1,600 of the hottest slots, captivating table games, and much more. Prepare for an unforgettable experience filled with nonstop excitement and boundless entertainment.
Parking
The casino features a 5-story garage with space for 2,500 cars. Self-parking is $10. However, that fee will be waived if you play 1/2 hour on slots or table games using your Wild Card.
Additional Downtown Excursions
Discover Black-owned businesses in downtown Cincinnati, from flavorful restaurants and sweet dessert spots to cozy coffee shops, stylish clothing boutiques, lively nightclubs, and more.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.


