“Shannon’s commitment to the core values of eliminating racism and empowering women cannot be overstated. We are grateful for Shannon’s strategic vision and tireless advocacy. Her vision and leadership will leave the YWCA Dayton well-positioned to continue the work of fighting for women and racial justice. The Board is working closely with the YWCA USA to identify an interim CEO,” said YWCA board chair Jennifer Heapy.
Isom began her professional career working for the YWCA in Columbus as a manager of a trial program in conjunction with the CDC and YWCA USA to ensure marginalized women had access to breast and cervical screenings. Under Isom’s leadership, including her time as the Board Chair, the YWCA Dayton has become the region’s driving force for to eliminate racism and empowering women, a release from the YWCA board said.
“I have been lucky enough to lead — at least for a season — at YWCA Dayton and to be part of the succession of leaders at this great organization. But YWCA Dayton has been standing strong since 1870 and has been on this corner as a fortress since 1913. I am assured and positive that YWCA will be in good hands with the next leader,” Isom said.
During her tenure as CEO, Isom received numerous awards, including the Humanitarian Award from the National Conference for Community and Justice of Greater Dayton, and the National Philanthropy Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
“Shannon has a 20-year track record leading strategic teams,” said Community Shelter Board chair Susan Carroll-Boser in a release. “Shannon will lead our community through economic and regional changes to population size and housing market conditions and position Community Shelter Board to make meaningful impact for people facing homelessness. She has the vision and collaborative skills to guide Community Shelter Board into a new era of achievement.”
In the community, Shannon’s work included serving on numerous boards and committees including board member for the Dayton Downtown Partnership, Co-Op Dayton, Community Appeals Board for the City of Dayton, and Miami Valley Regional Planning Committee. She served on the Executive Advisory Committee for the Human Rights Center at the University of Dayton and as co-chair of Racism is a Public Health Crisis Task Force.
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