YWCA Princeton will celebrate women whose leadership and service are shaping the region during its 42nd Annual Tribute to Women Awards on March 26.
The event will take place Thursday, March 26, at The Boathouse at Mercer Lake anad will feature the presentation of the Susie Waxwood Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor that has not been awarded in more than a decade.
This year’s award will be presented to Shirley Satterfield, a sixth-generation Princeton resident, educator and community historian recognized for her decades of work preserving Black history and advancing racial justice in the region.
The Susie Waxwood Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals whose lifelong commitment to service reflects the mission of YWCA Princeton — eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.
Satterfield has spent years documenting and sharing the stories of Princeton’s Black community and ensuring that historically marginalized voices are recognized in local history.
In addition to the lifetime achievement honor, the YWCA will recognize four women for their leadership and impact in different areas of community life.
The 2026 Tribute to Women honorees include Dee Goldstein, Business Leader and Community Advocate; Allison Howe, Community Leader; Leanna Jahnke, Educator; and Nia Sharif, Young Advocate.
YWCA Princeton officials said the honorees represent a wide range of experiences but share a common commitment to service, equity and community empowerment.
“These remarkable women embody the spirit of the YWCA mission,” said Rose Wong, CEO of YWCA Princeton.
“Through their leadership and dedication, they uplift others, champion equity and help build a stronger, more just community for all,” Wong said.
The Tribute to Women Awards program serves as both a celebration and a platform to highlight the work of women who are making meaningful contributions to the community.
Organizers say the event helps elevate the stories of local leaders and encourages broader community engagement around issues of equity, justice and opportunity.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities and information about participating in the event’s digital ad reel are available at ywcaprinceton.org/tribute-2026.
YWCA Princeton offers a range of programs focused on supporting women and families across the region.
Programs include affor dable childcare services, English as a Second Language classes, workforce development initiatives, a Breast Cancer Resource Center and community programs designed to support newcomers and promote civic engagement.
