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Powerful Women: Let's Talk
POWERFUL WOMEN: LET’S TALK

Head of the Grand Rapids History Center, Julie Tabberer, shares the story of Helen J. Claytor

By Shelley Irwin
Published March 2, 2026 at 8:58 AM EST
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Helen J. Claytor was the first African American woman to head the national board of directors for the YWCA.

Shelley Irwin is joined by Julie Tabberer, the Head of the Grand Rapids History Center at the Grand Rapids Public Library, to learn the story of Helen J. Claytor, who was the first African American woman to head the national board of directors for the YWCA.

Julie talks about Helen's road to the YWCA, her impact in the community, her dedication to Equal Dignity, and more.

Transcripts are provided upon request.

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Powerful Women: Let's Talk Season 4 GRPLYWCAGrand RapidshistoryWomen
Shelley Irwin
Shelley Irwin is the host and producer for The Shelley Irwin Show, a news magazine talk-show format on the local NPR affiliate Monday through Friday. The show, broadcast at 9 a.m., features a wide variety of local and national news makers, plus special features.
See stories by Shelley Irwin
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