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.
Vanessa Jones-Washington
Dr. Vanessa Jones-Washington, CEO of New Beginnings Residential Treatment Center, has spent more than 15 years advancing mental health services in the Valley.
With a PhD in counseling and dual master’s degrees in counseling and criminal justice, she founded New Beginnings in 2008 to serve at-risk youth through long-term residential care. Certified in juvenile justice, sex offender treatment, and cognitive behavioral therapy, she received the Virginia Colson Award in 2014 for her service to children and families.
Beyond mental health, she mentors women in financial literacy, housing stability and economic independence.
Dr. Jones-Washington is also involved in equestrian training and sports, veterans’ organizations and other groups, including Leg Up for Cleveland’s Kids and Blessed Hands Outreach Ministry. She is also an accomplished equestrian.
Dr. Vasilia Vamvakis
After years working for General Electric, Dr. Vasilia Vamvakis pivoted to medicine to serve others over working for corporate profit. A chemical engineer turned physician, she graduated from NEOMED in 2016 while raising four young children—one born during medical school, another during residency. Today, she serves as a family physician at Mercy Health.
Dr. Vamvakis was the Site Lead for the Primary Care First Initiative within Bon Secours Mercy Health from 2023-2025; her office site was selected to implement Value Based Care Initiative this year; and, she has a 5-star rating in Experience of care.
A black belt and lifelong learner, Dr. Vamvakis is passionate about mentoring women, especially in balancing careers and family. Her future goals include leading lifestyle medicine initiatives and joining a medical mission trip with her family.
Vicki Vicars
Vicki Vicars plays a key role in ensuring the Valley is a welcoming and inclusive place through her leadership at Thrive Mahoning Valley, which also connects residents to economic, social and educational opportunities. Since becoming the organization’s first paid staff member in 2023, Vicki created the Newcomers Network, secured major grants and expanded Thrive’s budget from $6,000 to $240,000 in three years.
A longtime community leader, Vicki has served on boards for the League of Women Voters, Crime Stoppers of Greater Youngstown (of which she is now president), Friends of Youngstown and the Youngstown Opportunity and Restoration Center. Her work has brought together faith-based groups, service providers and civic leaders to support newcomers in meaningful ways—building a more connected, compassionate and vibrant region.
Source: Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber
