Salute to Women

Since its inception in 1974, the Salute to Women program has been a cornerstone event celebrating the extraordinary contributions of women in the community. The lack of recognition for women’s contributions to the Greater Lafayette area was seen as a problem that needed a solution- one that could be provided by YWCA Greater Lafayette in the form of an award for excellence in volunteerism.  Other women’s organizations such as the Lafayette Women’s Political Caucus, the American Association of University Women and the Lafayette Business and Professional Women collaborated with YWCA Greater Lafayette to give input on what such an award should represent to the community.  This initial collective approach ensured diverse representation of women’s accomplishments across various groups in the community.  YWCA Greater Lafayette became the sole sponsor of Salute to Women, providing consistent leadership and expanding the event’s reach. Over time, the program has grown to include multiple award categories that honor women at different stages of life and levels of community impact. These include awards such as the Rising Star Award for young women under 18 who exemplify volunteerism, the Woman of Promise Award for emerging leaders aged 18-39, and the Woman of Distinction Award for those over 40 with a legacy of service. The Woman of Wisdom Award, introduced later, celebrates women over 55 whose lifelong dedication has shaped their communities. Volunteerism remains at the heart of this program and reflects a broader ethos within Greater Lafayette. Volunteers strengthen social bonds, address critical needs, and inspire collective action. By spotlighting these contributions, Salute to Women not only honors individuals but also motivates others to engage in meaningful service. As we look ahead to this year’s honorees, this tradition continues to evolve while staying true to its mission: celebrating women’s achievements and inspiring future generations. For just over five decades, Salute to Women has shown that volunteerism is more than an act of kindness—it is a transformative force that builds stronger communities and enriches lives.

YWCA is proud to present the Salute to Women Class of 2025 Honorees: 

Rising Star

Evie Shepler, Student, Wea Ridge Middle School

Student leader who is strong advocate for mental health, inclusion, and acceptance among her peers.

Woman of Promise

Mercy Orukpe Moses, PhD Student, Purdue University

First generation student mentoring others and ensuring women have support to meet their family needs as well as meet their own aspirations.

 
Women of Distinction

Brenda Campbell, Academic Advisor, Ivy Tech Community College

Mentor that is deeply committed to community service.

Mary Cutler, Naturalist, Tippecanoe County Government

Unparalleled environmental educator sharing her expertise with all generations to inspire others to take care of the world around them.

Iris Goldfeder, CEO, Gas Stove Creative

Entrepreneur seeking to support hidden community issues through philanthropic efforts.

Mida Grover, Spanish Teacher, Lafayette Jeff High School

Educator and advocate for cultural pride and challenging stereotypes about immigrant communities.

Julia Leahy, Community Development Director, City of Delphi

Relationship builder growing business community relationships for the betterment of the community.

Cara Putman, Director, Brock-Wilson Center for Women in Business

Community volunteer and supporter of young woman seeking careers in business.

Mary Keller Ade, MD Woman of Wisdom

Eileen Hession Weiss, Community Volunteer

Community leader dedicated to community service, music ministry, and civic leadership for decades.