YWCA Greater Cleveland is celebrating its 40th anniversary of honoring women in Northeast Ohio through the Women of Achievement awards, in which eight local leaders will be named Women of Achievement and 46 others will be designated as Women of Professional Excellence.

The awards allow companies and groups throughout Northeast Ohio to recognize the contributions of exceptional women in their organizations. Women receiving it exemplify high professional standards and career and personal growth; make significant contributions to the effective, efficient operation of their organizations; display a willingness to support and mentor others; and make a positive impact on the community. Previously known as the Merit Award, more than 1,500 women have received this honor since 1977.

The 2016 "Women of Achievement Award" recipients include:

• Micki Byrnes, president and general manager, WKYC
• Lee Friedman, CEO, College Now Greater Cleveland
• Kathryn “Kit” Jensen, COO, ideastream
• Kym Sellers, founder, Kym Sellers Foundation; television and radio personality
• Robyn Minter Smyers, partner-in-charge, Thompson Hine LLP – Cleveland Office
• Maryrose Sylvester, president and CEO, Current Powered by GE
• Nancy Tinsley, president of Parma Medical Center, University Hospitals
• Sue Tyler, executive vice President and chief experience officer, Medical Mutual of Ohio

The women will be recognized at the 40th YWCA Women of Achievement Luncheon and Women’s Leadership Conference on Monday, May 2 at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, which will also feature a host of conference workshops. More information about the event and registration details are available online.