Barbara J. Danforth
President & CEO
YWCA Greater Cleveland

Under Barbara J. Danforth's 11-year leadership the YWCA of Greater Cleveland has transformed from one of Cleveland's "best kept secrets" to a vibrant organization that remains relevant to the needs of women at all stages and places in their lives. 

Ms. Danforth draws upon her social work and juris doctorate education and her experience in the insurance industry and the government legal arena to implement the YWCA's mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.

Most recently, Ms. Danforth led the launch of the YWCA Women's Leadership Initiative and two programs offered in partnership with Corporate College: Leadership Boot Camp and Momentum. Both of these programs  are designed to help professional women advance their careers.  "A career ladder can be climbed in heels," is her mantra and a driving force behind the advancement of this program. 

Ms. Danforth's dedication to improving the lives of women extends beyond career advancement.  She has overseen the YWCA's program growth in the areas of domestic violence education and prevention, teen pregnancy support, teen pregnancy and substance use prevention and child care. 

Ms. Danforth earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Eastern Michigan University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh.

Awards

• 2006 Master Innovator by Smart Business Magazine
• 2006 One of the 100 Most Powerful People, as named in Inside Business Magazine
• 2005 Athena Award recipient and 2004 Athena Award Finalist presented by Inside Business Magazine
• 2004 Rainmaker by Northern Ohio Live Magazine
• 2004 Status of Women Award by Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Greater Cleveland Chapter
• 2004 participant on the Perspectives of Women in Business hosted by SBN Magazine 
• 2001 Woman of Note presented by Crain's Cleveland Business

Civic Involvement

• Board of Directors and Executive Committee of United Way Services of Greater Cleveland. President for United Way's Council of Agency Executives.

Speaker & Consultant

Ms. Danforth frequently lectures at corporations and universities about women in leadership and gender differences in the workplace.  >> Find out more