The American Association of University Women – Bradford Branch is proud to announce Lee Ann Doynow as the recipient of the AAUW Gateway to Equity Award 2020.

This award recognizes individuals, groups or organizations that have shown, by action and philosophy, that they advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, or research. AAUW – Bradford Branch recognizes Doynow for her lifetime commitment to advancing opportunities for women and girls through her leadership, advocacy and vision as a working professional and as a volunteer.

Doynow was born and raised in Bradford and received her bachelor’s degree in sociology from St. Bonaventure University. From 1973 to 1987, she served as the executive director of YWCAs in Bradford, Grand Rapids, Mich., Buffalo, N.Y., and the National Capital Area. In each of her appointments, Doynow utilized her skills and expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, and human resources and fiscal management to reorganize and revitalize the organizations.

During her tenure at the YWCA in Bradford, she was the catalyst in the development of a residential program for transition from Warren State Hospital for women at the Bradford YWCA. Under her leadership, the YWCA developed its first resource center for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and recruited of services for the first family planning clinic from the Family Planning Agency of Pittsburgh.

From 1989 to 2002, Doynow served as the executive director of the Allegheny Research and Development Center (ARDC) at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. Doynow and her staff worked to advance economic development in the region. After leaving the University, Doynow joined the Bradford Area School District as the human resources administrator until her retirement in 2008. She presently works as a private management consultant for non-profit agencies providing training in the areas of corporate training, executive recruitment, financial management, business development, and strategic management training.

Over the years, Doynow has served on many boards, including Futures, City of Bradford Planning Commission, Bradford Nursing Pavilion, FCI-McKean, Friendship Table, Bradford Sanitary Authority, Bradford Area Public Library, American Red Cross, YWCA Trustees, Shea’s Buffalo, Bradford City Council, and Western Michigan Public Television and Radio.

When Doynow was informed of her award, she responded, “When I think about my past experiences, many amazing women who mentored me come to mind. We truly do stand on the shoulders of the women who come before us.”