CELEBRATE HER: Honoring Women Paving Pathways
Join the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals (CULYP) for an unforgettable evening as we proudly present Celebrate Her 2025—a signature event dedicated to honoring, uplifting, and empowering the remarkable women who are shaping our community, industries, and future generations.
This year’s Celebrate Her is centered around the theme "Women Paving Pathways", recognizing women who are breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and making an undeniable impact in their fields. Whether in business, education, public service, or social change, these women embody excellence and resilience, inspiring those who follow in their footsteps.
What to Expect
🌟 Honoree Recognition
We will recognize trailblazing women who have made a lasting impact in their respective fields. These honorees exemplify leadership, service, and dedication to fostering community and professional growth.
Civic Engagement Honoree – Tiara Ross - City of Columbus
Community Champion Honoree – Sophia Fifner - Columbus Metropolitan Club
Health & Wellness Honoree – Chevonne Harris - ThriveIN
Social & Cultural Contributions Honoree – Brandy Avery - Keys to Black Wealth
Young Professional on The Rise - Ashley Grayson, Joey McQueen, Liz Castlin-Turner, & Zara Durham
The YP on the Rise award recognizes a current, paid CULYP member who exemplifies:
✅ Community Leadership & Impact
✅ Excellence in their Field
✅ Commitment to Service & Empowerment
Let’s celebrate the trailblazers in our network who are paving pathways for the next generation!
See Below for further introduction to our outstanding Honorees!
🎤 Panel Discussion
Hear from influential women leaders as they share their journeys, challenges, and successes in an intimate and engaging conversation. Gain valuable insights and inspiration to take your own path to the next level. Moderated by: Alissa Henry
🤝 Networking & Community Building
Connect with a diverse group of professionals, leaders, and changemakers in an elegant and welcoming atmosphere. Celebrate the power of collaboration and mentorship among women and allies. (Men are also welcomed to attend this event)
🎶 Live Entertainment
Enjoy live entertainment that will set the perfect tone for an evening of celebration and reflection. We will have Keisha Soleil & Stephen Stringz with us to curate the vibes of the evening!
💜 Honoring Women & Paying It Forward
A portion of the proceeds from Celebrate Her will support the Change for Change Education Scholarship, and CULYP initiatives to help empower the next generation leaders.
Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities
🎟 Tickets Available
Tickets are on sale now! Become a member today and take advantage of our $40 member price. General Admission for Non-Members is $50. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure your spot!!
💼 Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Partner with us to enhance the impact of this memorable evening. Discover the perfect sponsorship package for your organization by accessing our Celebrate Her Sponsorship Letter. For more information, please contact us at CULYP.Development@cul.org.
Civic Engagement - Tiara Ross
Deputy Chief of the Property Action Team for the Columbus City Attorney’s Office, Tiara Ross is dedicated to community safety, housing justice, and civic leadership. She co-created a first-of-its-kind community immersion program for law enforcement, bridging relationships between officers and residents. Tiara also serves as General Counsel for Columbus’ Department of Inspector General and actively works to create safer, more equitable communities.
Community Champion - Sophia Fifner
As President & CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Club, Sophia Fifner leads civic conversations that shape Central Ohio. A seasoned corporate affairs executive, she has directed over $100 million in social impact initiatives. Sophia has served on multiple boards advocating for gender equity and anti-sexual violence, earning recognition for her leadership and community commitment.
Health & Wellness - Chevonne Harris
Founder & CEO of ThriveIN, Chevonne Harris is a nationally recognized advocate for workplace equity and mental well-being. Through ThriveIN, she has built a 12K+ member network and partnered with leading brands to foster inclusive, wellness-focused professional environments. Chevonne also serves as Associate VP of Strategy at Ologie and has contributed as a journalist to major media platforms.
Social & Cultural Contributions- Brandy Avery
Brandy Avery is a financial educator and Co-Founder of Keys to Black Wealth, an organization merging entertainment with financial literacy to close the racial wealth gap. Through her work as a business owner, financial advisor, and community leader, Brandy has helped thousands gain economic empowerment, earning national recognition for her impact.
YP On The Rise Nominees
Nominees:
Ashley Grayson:
🔹 Advisor of Student Leadership & Engagement at The Ohio State University, empowering student leaders and organizations.
🔹 Event Planning Powerhouse, managing over 250 events annually on campus and throughout Columbus.
🔹 Proud Boy Mom of Three, balancing leadership and motherhood with passion and grace.
Joey McQueen:
🔹 Non-Profit Leader with a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Ohio University, currently serving in an interim director role overseeing Cash Applications and Website Access.
🔹 Board Member of Rewriting the Narrative and active member of CULYP, dedicated to uplifting Black and Brown voices.
🔹 Passionate about health, wealth, and education, fostering partnerships that empower the community.
🔹 Committed to building a meaningful legacy for the next generation through leadership and service.
Liz Castlin-Turner:
🔹 Senior Program Manager for Ohio Department of Higher Education, shaping over 500 programs to expand access to education across Ohio.
🔹 Dedicated Educator & Leader, having served as a teacher, counselor, and assistant administrator in multiple Central Ohio school districts.
🔹 TED Talk Presenter & Internationally Published Researcher, redefining student success through innovative education strategies.
Zara Durham:
🔹 Communications & Data Manager at Ohio Women's Alliance, using strategy to amplify women's voices.
🔹 HBCU Graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, dedicated to storytelling and advocacy.
🔹 Author of The Future Is Pretty—a guide empowering young women to navigate college and beyond.
🔹 Past Board Member of CULYP, serving as Personal & Professional Development Co-Chair (2022-2024).
🔹 Freelance Writer, uplifting Black excellence and positive representation in media.
Join Us as We Celebrate the Power of Women!
Don’t miss this inspiring night dedicated to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and paving the way for the future. Stay tuned for honoree announcements, and more!