News

May 2022

‘HerStory Makers’ celebration honors 3 community leaders

Courtesy of ABC 6
By Rodney Dunigan
May 12, 2022


COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Columbus Urban League is leading the effort to highlight those making a difference in Central Ohio.

The Columbus Urban League is leading the effort to highlight those making a difference in Central Ohio. (WSYX)

This year, the organization is highlighting three extraordinary women and community leaders helping to push the city of Columbus forward.

This year’s ‘HerStory Makers’ event is focused on honoring those living a legacy of service and commitment to others.

“It’s an opportunity for black women, in particular, to be discovered. That their excellence is discovered and they are not only women who are surviving but thriving in the community,” Columbus Urban League president Stephanie Hightower said.

Leaders with the Columbus Urban League told ABC 6 that these women are truly community leaders, helping to serve as an inspiration to other young men and women throughout the city.

Dr. Melissa Shivers is the senior vice president for student life at Ohio State. She has a huge responsibility, impacting the lives of students each and every day.

“You know, growing up in a community where I didn’t see a lot of people that looked like me when I attended my undergrad institution I was really inspired to see people that looked like me. So to be able to work on a college campus now for 26 years, I’m very fortunate that I get to hear students say I see what you’ve done and now I do believe that I can do it or be it. That in itself is a gift and I don’t take that lightly,” Dr. Shivers told ABC 6.

LaDavia Drane is the director and global head of inclusion, diversity, and equity for Amazon web services. She serves as the bridge between the world of technology and inclusion.

Her work is literally having a global impact.

Nichole Barnes Marshall is the global head of inclusion and diversity at Pinterest. With more than 20 years of experience at iconic brands like IBM and L-brands.

Marshall’s commitment to the community is evident with work on the boards of the United Way of Central Ohio and the African American Leadership Academy, just to name a few.

The Columbus Urban League is honoring the impressive trio for their passion and mission of service.

All three are described as trailblazers helping to make Columbus a better place.

The women will be honored at a celebration Thursday, May 19. ABC 6 is proud to take part. Anchor Rodney Dunigan will be serving as the emcee for the event.