Dayton, Ohio – Montgomery County Commissioner Mary A. McDonald has been recognized as one of the Dayton region’s most influential leaders after being selected as a 2026 Dayton Business Journal Women Who Mean Business honoree.
The annual recognition celebrates women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, professional success, community involvement, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the region. Honorees are chosen by the Dayton Business Journal Editorial Board following a nomination process that highlights individuals whose work has had a meaningful impact on their communities.
McDonald shared her appreciation for the honor in a message posted on social media.
“I am deeply honored to be named a Dayton Business Journal 2026 Women Who Mean Business Honoree. Thank you to the DBJ for this recognition and for celebrating women who are making a difference in our region. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the residents of Montgomery County, Ohio! This honor belongs to everyone who has supported, encouraged, and partnered with me along the way. Thank you for believing in the power of service, leadership, and community,” Commissioner Mary A. McDonald wrote on social media.
Recognition For Years Of Service And Leadership
The award recognizes McDonald’s long-standing commitment to public service and her efforts to strengthen communities throughout Montgomery County.
Throughout her career, she has supported a wide variety of initiatives aimed at improving quality of life for local residents. Among her priorities has been advocacy for the arts, which she has consistently promoted as an important contributor to both community enrichment and economic growth.
McDonald has also been a strong supporter of programs focused on young people, helping encourage opportunities that benefit future generations. In addition, she has worked to advance economic development initiatives designed to attract investment, support businesses, and expand opportunities for residents throughout the county.
Her work has also included support for county services that assist some of the area’s most vulnerable individuals and families.
Following the announcement, McDonald expressed gratitude for the many partnerships that have helped drive progress across the region.
“I am truly honored to be recognized by the Dayton Business Journal alongside so many inspiring women leaders,” said Commissioner McDonald. “Serving the residents of Montgomery County is a privilege, and I am grateful to work with partners across our region who are committed to building a stronger, more inclusive community.”
Community Leaders Praise Achievement
County officials praised McDonald’s dedication and the impact of her leadership.
Montgomery County Administrator Michael Colbert said the recognition reflects years of service and commitment to the community.
“Commissioner McDonald has been a dedicated public servant whose leadership continues to strengthen Montgomery County,” said Michael Colbert, Montgomery County Administrator. “This recognition reflects the impact of her leadership, and we are proud to see her honored among this year’s distinguished recipients.”
The Dayton Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business program is widely recognized throughout the region as a celebration of women who have helped shape their communities through leadership, innovation, and service.
McDonald will be formally recognized along with the other 2026 honorees during a special luncheon scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 27, at the Dayton Convention Center. The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will bring together business, government, and community leaders from across the region to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s recipients.
For McDonald, the honor highlights not only her own achievements but also the partnerships and collaborative efforts that have helped strengthen Montgomery County and improve the lives of residents throughout the community.
