The achievements of women are felt in every aspect of a community. Therefore, Tribute’s award categories were designed over the years to capture a broad scope of accomplishment.

In 1982, the call for nominations sought candidates who 1) were “currently making, or had recently made, outstanding contributions to their community and/or their profession,” and 2) candidates “who have made outstanding contributions of historical importance to their community and/or their profession.”

By 1989, the selection process had become more defined and included specific categories: Advocacy, Arts, Business/ Industry, Community Service, and Professions. Recognizing an opportunity to inspire the next generation, a category reserved for high school students was added in 1993. In 1996 and inspired by women’s success in the recent Olympics, the YWCA added “Sports and Fitness.” In 2005 a financial award was added for the student honorees.

Although adjusted slightly from time to time, the seven categories (see below) remained the cornerstone of the selection process until 2020 when the COVID-19 Pandemic moved Tribute into a virtual format. The online broadcast required a more streamlined awards program, and so the YWCA looked to Tribute’s earliest days when updating and consolidating the new categories — Tribute Award, Rising Tribute Award, and Student Honoree and Recipient of the YWCA Judy Lloyd Student Leadership Award.

ADVOCACY

Her bold advocacy for a population or cause has resulted in increased community awareness and action of issues of social concern.

ARTS

She has excelled in the performance, service, or teaching of creative arts.

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, INDUSTRY & LABOR

She has exhibited superior ability and accomplishment in a company, business, organization, or association.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

She has shown outstanding achievement as a volunteer, contributing to the betterment of a neighborhood and/or community.

PROFESSIONS

Presented to a woman who has excelled in her chosen field (e.g., accountant, teacher, attorney, politician, journalist, etc.).

SPORTS, FITNESS & WELLNESS

She has shown outstanding leadership and mentorship in promoting health and wellness (i.e., coach, physician, athlete, etc.).

STUDENT

Presented to a young woman for outstanding achievement as a high school student. This honoree also receives the YWCA’s Judy Lloyd Student Leadership Award.