05/01/2026
For over 40 years, YWCA Columbus has honored women whose leadership strengthens families, workplaces, and communities across Central Ohio—and this year, two leaders with connections to Upper Arlington are among those recognized. 🎉 🙌
Catherine Strauss, Managing Partner at Ice Miller LLP, is a nationally recognized trial attorney and community leader. Her service includes leadership roles with the YMCA of Central Ohio, Columbus Metropolitan Library, and Upper Arlington Community Foundation, as well as work supporting major Upper Arlington initiatives like the Bob Crane Community Center campaign.
Letha Pugh is a co-founder of Bake Me Happy and Preston's: A Burger Joint, and owner of Core Cafe inside the Bob Crane Community Center. She is a Central Ohio entrepreneur and advocate focused on equity and workforce development, with leadership roles across several regional organizations.
Congratulations to both Catherine and Letha on this well-deserved recognition from YWCA Columbus, and thank you for your continued leadership and impact in Upper Arlington and across Central Ohio! 🧡
We’re so grateful to all who joined us for the 41st Annual Women of Achievement celebration. The energy in the room was beyond contagious and we hope you left feeling just as inspired as we did! 🧡
Thank you to our event partners, sponsors, family and friends, and everyone who came together to make this event special. And a special shout out to Installed Building Products and Edwards Companies, who committed to doubling gifts on event day ensuring YWCA can continue providing safe housing and emergency shelter for families, educating and empowering young children, advancing social justice across our community each day – providing advocacy and programming in the spaces and places that matter most.
At YWCA Columbus, we have always known there is a better way forward – and we urge you to join us even after Women of Achievement 2026 to celebrate the honorees – and YWCA's 140 years of legacy, impact, and hope. Your gift helps create a more equitable future: https://buff.ly/ORkDwys