The Women of Distinction event began in 1974, when Louise Marston Conklin, a longtime editor of the Wisconsin State Journal, retired and decided to turn her retirement celebration into a benefit for the YWCA, on whose board she then served. Since that time, the YWCA has recognized more than 185 Women of Distinction. Their community service, professional achievement, integrity, leadership and dedication to the lives of others and to the quality of life for all stand as a reflection of the YWCA’s historic mission and values.