WEST CHESTER, Ohio,
Dec. 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In
recognition of women who have overcome obstacles to make a positive
difference in the lives of others, the AK Steel Foundation is
underwriting the Steel Magnolia Awards – honoring four women who
reside in the vicinity of AK Steel's corporate headquarters and
plant operations. The awards are worth $1,000 each, and will be presented in
the form of a grant made to an eligible non-profit organization
selected by each recipient.
"All of the award recipients are courageous women who, despite
personal challenges, have made a significant difference in the
lives of others," said James L.
Wainscott, Chairman, President and CEO of AK Steel.
"Through the company's foundation, we are proud to honor these
inspirational women by sponsoring the Steel Magnolia Awards."
The Middletown, Ohio, Community
Foundation independently administers the Steel Magnolia Awards
Program. For additional information about the program,
contact the Middletown Community Foundation at
513-424-7369.
2013 Steel Magnolia Award Recipients:
- Doris Frakes of
Rockport, Indiana - While
challenged with a series of family medical issues and loss, Doris
continues her volunteer efforts at St. Bernard School and the
Historical Society. She also delivers meals to home-bound
individuals and helps organize an annual Chamber of Commerce fair.
Her award will support the Way of Rockport, which provides transitional housing,
prison outreach, GED classes and addiction recovery services.
- Anita Ream of
Shelby, Ohio - A cancer survivor
herself, Anita lost her young son to a rare form of the disease in
2006, transforming her into a passionate cancer advocate. She
has organized several American Cancer Society Relay for Life
events, spoken at Livestrong events and raised funds for pediatric
cancer research through the St. Baldrick's Foundation. Her
award will support the Shelby Foundation for the Mason Ream Memorial Scholarship, which was
established in memory of her son.
- Judy Rolph of
Middletown, Ohio - After losing a
daughter and caring for multiple family members with special needs,
Judy continues to be regarded as a cornerstone of her local church.
Battling cancer herself, Judy's co-workers describe her as
someone who exemplifies how to face adversity with class, strength,
determination and joy. Her award will benefit "Women's Health
Issues in the Miami Valley Sisterhood" which provides health care
assistance for local women in need.
- Ann Wiseman of
Ashland, Kentucky - Following
several surgeries, Ann retired as a nurse but remains one of the
community's leading volunteers. A former Lions Club
president, she organizes Community Kitchen food drives, moderates a
Presbyterian women's group, is county secretary for the Extension
Services Homemaker's Group and fundraises for the Highlands
Museum. Her award will support the Ashland Area Presbyterian
Clean Start Ministries, which provides services for the
homeless.
SOURCE AK Steel