Centennial Celebration

For 100 years, the Junior League of Akron (originally founded as The Junior Charity League in 1923) has been a driving force for positive change in our community. Since 1926, when we joined the Association of Junior Leagues International, our members have worked together to advance women’s leadership, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting impact through volunteer service.

As we honor our history and look ahead to the future, we invite you to join us in celebrating a century of leadership, service, and community.

A special thank you to Sustainer Debbie Prinz, in collaboration with Susie Gaebel Wallace, for designing our Centennial Celebration logos!

About the Centennial

Founded in 1923, the Junior League of Akron has spent the last century empowering women as leaders and creating meaningful change throughout the community. From launching innovative programs and partnerships to supporting local nonprofits and addressing critical needs, JLA has been at the heart of many initiatives that have strengthened Akron. Through the dedication of its members, the League has not only built a legacy of service but also inspired generations to lead with purpose and compassion.

For more information about the Junior League of Akron’s history, please visit our History page.

Upcoming Events

Legacy Luncheon– September 19, 2026

Support the Centennial!

Join us in celebrating 100 years of women building better communities in Akron! As we honor our past and look toward the future, we invite you to be part of our next chapter- whether by attending our centennial events, supporting our mission, or becoming a member. Together, we can continue the legacy of leadership, service, and impact for the next 100 years.

Interested in joining the League? Click here!

Have more questions or want more information? Contact us!

Donors

Thank you to all who have supported our Centennial Capital Campaign. Your generosity honors our past and fuels our future, allowing us to continue making a meaningful impact in our community. We are proud to recognize the following donors by sponsorship level, whose commitment and belief in our mission help carry forward a century of service and inspire the work ahead.

Centennial Champions

Rebecca D. and William H. Considine Family Fund
Mark & Elizabeth Hamlin Family Foundation
Margaret McDowell Lloyd

Legacy Leaders

Ham and Beth Amer
David M. and Nancy M. Koly
Jo Ann Oelschlager
Janis Rhea Worley

Community Builders

Acme Fresh Market Foundation
Albrecht Family Foundation
Laura Bailey Culp and Robert L. Culp, Jr.
Colleen O’Connor Wernig

Changemakers

Jan Alpeter
Alice Bergstrom
Judith A. Bigelow
Jennifer L. Black
Marian Calvin
Chris Gee
Nancy and Chris Gotfredson
Tatiana and Richard Harris
Marcia G. Holcomb

Megan Houk
Rebecca Kuhar
Donna Loomis
Roger and Josie McElroy
Gini Paige
Laura Billow Preston
Seedlings Garden Club
Kris Wagner
Stephanie Wheeler Cheek, Marjory Billow Wheeler

Century Supporters

Fran Buchholzer
Carol Eiber
Laura and Brian Mollenshott
Sieglinde O’Neil
Shelby Schaffner
Ann Wehener

Shelby Schaffner
Sean W. Vollman
Susie Gaebel Wallace
Barbara Webb