“These suffragists went on to become the founders of our League in 1920,” notes the organization’s website. “For over one hundred years, the Dayton League has been at the forefront of voters’ rights and human rights, and is a strong proponent of diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
The ceremony recognizes the impact of local women from our community. The 2026 honorees are:
- Sharon Davies, president and CEO of the Charles F. Kettering Foundation
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
- Mary Sue Gmeiner, community activist
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
- Lucy Anne McKosky, community advocate and volunteer
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
- Sharon Rab, founder and co-chair of the Dayton Literacy Peace Prize Foundation
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
- Bonnie Beaman Rice, retired magistrate, community advocate and volunteer
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
This year’s keynote speaker will be Joan Donovan, co-author of “Meme Wars: The Untold Story of the Online Battles Upending Democracy in America.”
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
The organization says each honoree was chosen for “displaying the same grit and termination the suffragists displayed.”
The event will be in the Daniel J. Curran Place’s Meyer Room at the University of Dayton, 1700 S. Patterson Ave., Dayton. The ticketed reception will take place from 4:30-5:30 p.m. The dinner and program will follow from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
“During Women’s History Month, it is especially important to take time to acknowledge women in our community who have made a meaningful impact,” said Christine Corba, executive director of the League of Women Voters of the Greater Dayton Area. “By recognizing the contributions of this group of women, we honor the suffragists’ legacy of strength and advocacy.”
For more information, visit lwvdayton.org/dangerous-dames-of-dayton-2026.
About the Author
