Label
RIA: Kynard
Title
Recognizing Stephanie D. Kynard in Celebration of Women’s History Month
Summary
WHEREAS, Women’s History Month provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements, leadership, and lasting contributions of women who strengthen our communities through service, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement; and
WHEREAS, Stephanie D. Kynard, a proud 49-year-old Black woman, entrepreneur for more than twenty-one years, owned and operated a child development center, dedicating herself to the care and development of countless children while also creating employment opportunities within the community, often sacrificing personal time with her own family to ensure that other families were supported with dependable, quality care; and
WHEREAS, after more than two decades of impactful service in early childhood education, she embraced a new chapter of entrepreneurship, as a franchise owner/operator of Rita’s Italian Ice and Custard, where she continues to exemplify strong business leadership and community commitment; and as a growing entrepreneur preparing to open her second location, she reflects vision, perseverance, and a dedication to creating welcoming spaces and expanding opportunity within the community; and
WHEREAS, through her current business endeavors, she remains committed to economic empowerment by providing jobs and mentorship opportunities for young people in the community, further investing in the next generation of leaders; and
WHEREAS, she is a devoted wife of twenty-five years to her husband, Clyde, and a proud mother to Carrington and Christian, who serve as her daily inspiration and the foundation of her commitment to legacy and leadership; and
WHEREAS, Stephanie Kynard is an engaged member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and a faithful member of Worship Center Church, reflecting her dedication to sisterhood, faith, and community service; and
WHEREAS, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Wilberforce University, the first HBCU founded by the AME Church, and a Master’s degree in Education from University of Findlay, achievements that have strengthened her ability to lead with professionalism, purpose, and vision; and
WHEREAS, her life and leadership are grounded in the guiding principle, “Love God. Love People. Serve Both,” a motto that directs her business practices, community engagement, and daily commitment to meaningful impact.
NOW THEREFORE, Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Toledo:
SECTION 1. That in recognition of Women’s History Month, we honor Stephanie D. Kynard for her exemplary leadership, entrepreneurial excellence, dedication to education, devotion to family, and unwavering service to the community.
SECTION 2. That her perseverance, faith, and commitment to creating opportunity serve as a powerful inspiration to future generations of women leaders who strive to build legacy, strengthen families, and uplift their communities.
Adopted _________________: yeas _____, nays _____.
Attest: ________________________ __________________________________
Clerk of Council President of Council
Approved: _____________________ __________________________________
Mayor
I hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of an Ordinance passed by Council ________________________.
Attest: ________________________
Clerk of Council