For Women, Forever

Pamela R. Valentine

Named for one of Greater Akron's most influential philanthropic leaders, the Judith A. Read Tribute Award for Service & Advocacy for Women was created in 2016 to honor Judy Read's lifetime of service and extraordinary commitment to empowering women and girls. It is presented annually to the individual or couple who best exemplifies Judy's service, advocacy, leadership and passion in the community. 

The 2027 award recipient is Pamela R. Valentine, retired senior accountant for Lockheed Martin and former manager of major gifts for Girl Scouts of North East Ohio. For more than four decades, Valentine has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional achievement and a steadfast commitment to empowering women and girls throughout Greater Akron. 

A graduate of the University of Akron, Valentine built a distinguished career in accounting and finance, culminating in her role as senior accountant for Lockheed Martin, where she managed an annual budget of more than $1 billion. Following her corporate career, she continued her commitment to community impact in the nonprofit sector as manager of major gifts for Girl Scouts of North East Ohio. 

Throughout her career, Valentine has been a passionate advocate for educational opportunity, women's leadership and community engagement. Her volunteer leadership and service have benefited numerous organizations, including the Women's Endowment Fund, Project GRAD Akron, ATHENA Akron, YWCA of Summit County, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Child Guidance & Family Solutions and many others. 

Valentine's dedication to service is also rooted in her faith. An active member of Wesley Temple A.M.E. Zion Church in Akron, she serves as district president of the Women's Home and Overseas Missionary Society, providing leadership and support to ministries that strengthen communities locally and around the world. 

A respected mentor and role model, Valentine has encouraged generations of women to pursue higher education, professional advancement, civic involvement and philanthropic leadership. Through both formal and informal mentoring, she has helped countless women build confidence, recognize their potential and embrace opportunities to lead and serve. 

Her professional accomplishments and community impact have earned her numerous accolades, including The Soul of Philanthropy Akron's Hidden Philanthropist Award and the University of Akron's Dr. Frank L. Simonetti Distinguished Business Alumni Award. The Women's Endowment Fund is proud to recognize Pamela R. Valentine as the 2027 Judith A. Read Tribute Award for Service & Advocacy for Women recipient for her enduring leadership, advocacy and extraordinary contributions to the Greater Akron community.