Meals on Wheels CEO named Outstanding Woman of Northern Kentucky
Meals on Wheels CEO Jennifer Steele has yet another honor to add to her growing list of accolades. On May 17 she was named one of the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky by the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. The award celebrates women who live, work or volunteer in Northern Kentucky and represent the great diversity and extraordinary accomplishments of today’s women, according to the Chamber. All the honorees represent ideal role models for the young women who follow in their footsteps.
Under her leadership, Meals on Wheels has grown into one of the largest and most influential community-based organizations serving seniors in the country.
With more than 15 years of service in the nonprofit sector, Jennifer’s approach to community impact blends a deep respect for history and values with a relentless drive for change and innovation. She approaches problem-solving with empathy and compassion for others, a deep understanding of systemic social issues, grit, and determination to find a better way. Jennifer believes that it’s possible to transform the way that our community and country show up for the seniors who helped to shape and build it, and she channels all her energy into exploring possibilities and blazing new trails.
Jennifer received her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Public Administration degrees from Northern Kentucky University, where she has served as an adjunct faculty member. She has been honored by the Leadership Council for Nonprofits with the VUCA (Vision, Understanding, Clarity & Agility) award, by both of her alma mater programs as a Distinguished Alumnus, and is a graduate of Leadership NKY. She currently serves as a national board member for Meals on Wheels America and volunteers for Saturday Hoops and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Jennifer lives in Ft. Thomas with her daughter Vivienne.
“I am so grateful for the women and men who surround me with love and support, and who have sponsored me and cleared the brush,” said Jennifer. “I’m also grateful for the people and situations that have challenged me to stay soft while fighting harder, to lock arms with others when I’m tempted to go it alone and to get creative in solving the problems that we’re all facing together.”