The Dayton chapter marked its 100th anniversary during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The organization has contributed to the creation and continued public access to Dayton institutions such as the Dayton Art Institute, Dayton Society of Natural History, Montgomery County Imagination Library and Cox Arboretum. With a membership of over 200 women volunteers, the Dayton League’s current community impact area is supporting early childhood literacy as well.
“Our 105th year is not just a celebration of our history, but a renewed commitment to shaping our future,” Kailey Nolan, Junior League president, said. “We’re excited to honor the legacy of the women who came before us and propel our League into a strong, inclusive future that trains women to address the most pressing issues in our community.”
Part of the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), the Dayton chapter is the second established Junior League in the state of Ohio and among the first 25 leagues chartered across the country after the founder Mary Harriman established the first Junior League in New York City in 1901, according to the Dayton chapter. This included founding members women such as Eleanor Roosevelt.
The Dayton League honored its milestone anniversary with a luncheon at the Dayton Woman’s Club, held in the very room where the chapter’s inaugural meeting took place in 1919. Current members, past presidents and executive members gathered to reflect on the remarkable legacy of the League’s founding members, such as Katharine Kennedy Brown, Amalie Craighead and Mrs. Walter Smith Carr.
“It’s inspiring to look back on the impact of generations of women volunteers dedicated to the Dayton community,” Erin Davis, a chair of the 105 Anniversary Committee and a past league president, said. “The Dayton Chapter of the Junior League has transformed in many ways over 105 years, but our commitment to creating lasting social change remains as steadfast as ever.”
In 2025, the chapter plans to hold anniversary festivities including a series of upcoming events celebrating the rich history of the league and furthering the organization’s commitment to community engagement.
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