Spanning the Need is proud to honor the outstanding women nominated for the 2025 Athena Nominees in the Mahoning Valley presented by the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber and The Vindicator —trailblazers whose leadership, dedication, and community impact inspire all who know them. These remarkable individuals exemplify the spirit of the Athena by empowering others by professional excellence, community service, and dedication to empowering other women. Their achievements reflect the strength and resilience of the Mahoning Valley, and we celebrate their contributions to creating a more dynamic future for our region. Congratulations to each nominee.
Melissa Crown
Melissa Crown, Chief Operating Officer of Guidelight Financial Group, stepped into her role in 2021 and worked to turn the company around during a period of instability and high employee turnover, by transforming its culture and client focus. Since then, the company has grown year after year.
The graduate of Tiffin University and the University of Central Florida brings a diverse background, including roles as branch manager, banker, and U.S. postal carrier. As a member of the Center of Influence, she connects leaders for community and professional growth.
Her mentorship includes local youth and high school students through junior achievement programs. Melissa, an aspiring life coach, volunteers with Warren Family Mission, Cortland Area Cares Food Pantry, and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, where she raises awareness and resources.
Mallory Capretta
Mallory Capretta is a pediatric nurse practitioner at Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley, where she cares for critically ill infants in the NICU. Seeing about 14 patients daily, many born prematurely or with chronic conditions, Mallory elevates care standards and trains fellow nurses. Since she joined the NICU special care unit in 2020, patient satisfaction has surged.
She earned Akron Children’s Advanced Practice Provider Award in 2022 and 2024 and was nominated by March of Dimes as a Hero in Action. Mallory also serves on the Melina Michelle Edenfield Foundation board, raising awareness for pediatric brain cancer. She leads a marathon fundraising team, having brought in more than $20,000 for clinical research. Her dedication and heart bring hope to families in their most vulnerable moments.
LeeAnn Oros
LeeAnn Oros, owner of Permanent Beauty by LeeAnn, blends faith, artistry, and service. Launching her business in 2022, she offers permanent makeup services and tattoo removal and is training the next generation as a certified cosmetic tattoo instructor.
A former dental and ophthalmology assistant, LeeAnn also studied enology and viticulture at Kent State University and trained at Glow Permanent Makeup Academy. She served as an Ohio State Alateen representative and was involved in the Rust City food distribution outreach. She’s been involved with several ministries and was ordained as an officiant in 2022.
From selling jam at local craft shows to starting her own business, LeeAnn said she’s always wanted to provide an example for her four sons.
Source: Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber
