Every two years, YWCA Westfield shines a spotlight on the remarkable women shaping the future of Chautauqua County.

These honorees remind the organization of what leadership, integrity, and compassion look like in action and why our mission to empower women and eliminate racism matters every single day.

This year, YWCA Westfield are proud to honor four incredible women:

— Judge Grace M. Hanlon — Honored for breaking barriers as the first openly gay judge in New York State’s 8th Judicial District, Judge Hanlon’s career is a testament to service, courage, and the power of authenticity in leadership.

— Melissa Baideme — Founder and president of CK Natural Fruit Juice and named New York State Small Business Person of the Year, Baideme exemplifies entrepreneurship with heart building sustainability, innovation, and opportunity across our region.

— Katherine Galbraith – A celebrated artist and community champion, Katherine’s vision brought The Station Art Gallery & Studio and Plein Air Westfield to life, enriching the cultural heartbeat of Westfield and inspiring creativity in others.

— Youth honoree Addison Lendt — A student leader at Westfield Academy & Central School, Addison represents the next generation of empowered young women. Her leadership and compassion remind us that the future is bright and full of promise.

Tonight, a Women of Distinction Gala will take place at The White Inn in Fredonia to honor and celebrate these achievements. The event is sold out.

The YWCA Westfield was established in 1894 to meet the needs of the women and girls in the community. Throughout the years the organization has grown and changed to meet the needs of the surrounding area, but the agency remains a membership organization. In the early 1900s, the YWCA moved into the building at 58 S. Portage St. and has been the home of the YWCA Westfield since then.

A non-profit organization, our programming is funded largely by grants, memberships, and donations from community members like you. In addition to regular employees who implement quality curricula for children, the YWCA Westfield is also governed by a Board of Directors who volunteer their time providing valuable learning opportunities and events for the village.