The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC)’s Chief Experience Officer, Erin Phemester, is listed among 31 finalists for The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber and The Vindicator’s 33rd annual ATHENA Award dinner.
“It’s truly an honor to be nominated for the 2026 Athena Award alongside so many remarkable women. I’m grateful that the work we’re doing through the library to strengthen our community and support others, especially women leaders, is being recognized. Congratulations to the other inspiring nominees.” said Phemester, who has been serving and inspiring Mahoning County since 2019.
PLYMC Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek praised Phemester’s service to the community, “We are thrilled that Erin is being honored as an Athena nominee. Over the last seven years, she has been an integral part in PLYMC's service improvements and devotion to all-ages education in Mahoning County. It is a fitting honor that she is a finalist for an award named for the goddess of wisdom and civilization.”
The ATHENA Award honors individuals who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment: women who excel in their chosen field, have devoted time and energy to their community in a meaningful way and open doors so that others may follow in their path. The 2026 ATHENA Award Dinner kicks off with a cocktail reception at 5:15 p.m., with dinner and the program to follow on Thursday, May 14 at Waypoint 4180 in Canfield.
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The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) has served the Mahoning Valley since 1880 when the Youngstown Library Association was officially created. With 14 branches across Mahoning County, including Main Library in downtown Youngstown, PLYMC is well known for its signature services and programs like Summer Discovery and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. PLYMC serves our communities by preparing children for kindergarten, promoting early literacy, assisting job seekers, connecting Valley residents to technology, and providing resources for small businesses.