Shelley Ramos | YWCA Women of Excellence

Shelley Ramos
Director of Volunteer Engagement and Events 
Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy

Shelley Ramos worked for 10 years in the financial industry and recently had a desire to want to give back and work in the non profit world. Shelley believes that advocacy for our children and youth in the community is the cornerstone to our children's future and "investing in them makes basic economic sense.” Shelley has shared that she left a corporation that she thought she would retire from and went to work for the Topeka Civic Theater for two years in corporate development. At TCT, Shelley was a grant writer and event planner. Shelley shared that her proudest moment of employment was when she worked with Dobsky's, Freedom Frontier group and Brown V. Board of Education to bring 1,000 school children to the theater to watch “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Shelley currently serves as the Director of Volunteer Engagement and Events at the Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy.

TK: What inspires you? 
SHELLEY: Positive change and empowering others. I am a firm believer in the power of one- one person, one action, can have a ripple effect that can make a difference in our community.

TK: What advice do you have for others? 
SHELLEY: Surround yourself with people who are smarter and more talented than you.

TK: What is the greatest lesson you have learned on your journey? 
SHELLEY: Step back and be more present. People feel your presence, and will be more responsive when you are less wrapped up in distractions. Your intention is more impactful than the actions.   

The YWCA is on a mission to empower women at all stages in their careers. Diversity in leadership is particularly vital to our vibrant business community in the Greater Topeka Area.

The YWCA is celebrating 31 years of recognizing Women of Excellence in our community with the theme “Dare to be Powerful.” We dare to be powerful, despite whatever obstacles may present themselves along the way. 

“When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.”
- Audre Lorde

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