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.
Tifinie LaComb
When Tifinie LaComb was told banking was too challenging for a woman, it ignited a drive to succeed. Eight years later, LaComb, Vice President – Regional Banking Relationship with Huntington Bank, manages more than 100 client accounts, totaling up to $50 million in revenue.
But one of Tifinie’s proudest achievements was mentoring her successor after a promotion. She also mentors women and students, and is a community leader, through roles with Forward Lawrence, Mercer County Food Bank and Junior Achievement of Eastern Ohio, as well as through United Way’s Boardman Middle School program.
A graduate of Clarion University and Youngstown State, Tifinie is a Leadership Mahoning Valley and Leadership Lawrence County alum and multi-award recipient, including the Treasury Management Hero Award, Treasury Management MVP and Directors Club honors.
Traci Miller
Traci Miller started Color 3 Embroidery in her parents’ home in 1995 and has grown it into a wholesale apparel decorating company with accounts around the globe.
Named the Business Professional of the Year by the Regional Chamber and Woman of the Year by the Youngstown Business and Professional Women’s Club, her company has been recognized by Case Western Reserve University as one of the fastest growing in northeast Ohio.
She leads a women’s peer group that meets online monthly and volunteers with Entrepreneurs Organization. In fact, she is one of two women to be president of the local chapter in its 20-year history.
Traci, who has a business management degree, is also active with the NEO Children’s Rehabilitation Center and Trumbull Career & Technical Center.
Trinette Simon
As Cohen & Company’s first director of inclusion and equity, Trinette Simon is paving the way for meaningful culture change. A CPA and community leader, she spent four years building the Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in Action team while dually working as an accountant, ultimately proving the value of a full-time role. Now, she collaborates across departments to enhance hiring, development, and decision-making.
Trinette’s community service has included leadership and advisory roles with the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, Lifeskills Center of Youngstown, and YSU’s Accounting Advisory Board. A three-time Mahoning Valley 40 Under 40 honoree and MVP recipient, she is committed to inspiring others and creating inclusive workplaces. Her influence can be felt not only in policy—but in the people she uplifts every day.
Source: Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber
