Gwen Blystone of Ligonier has always had a knack for business.
She learned the ropes from her father, the late Joe Snyder, who owned and operated many businesses in the Ligonier area. At age 21, Blystone bought the Ligonier Beer Distributor.
Later in life, she “retired” to do charity work and run her marketing company, “Go Higher,” which is still in business today. On top of her professional accomplishments, Blystone is also a single mother of three and has nine grandchildren.
The Business and Professional Women's Club of Ligonier Valley has named Blystone “Woman of the Year” for her hard work and dedication to the organization. Betsy Shepler of Ligonier was also honored and received the “Member of the Year” award.
“It's an honor to be chosen because there are so many wonderful and worthy women,” Blystone said.
Blystone is an active member of both the Ligonier Valley and the Latrobe BPW's Club. As chairperson of the finance committee for the Ligonier club, Blystone has been proactive in making sure the club has enough money to support their projects. She is a charter member of the chapter and creator of the Luxury Bash, which raises money for the community and hosts more than 300 people each September. This year's Luxury Bash will be held at the Antiochian Village on Sept. 28.
“Watching our club grow financially, I really enjoy being at the helm of that,” said Blystone.
Shepler didn't attend her first BPW Club meeting as a member. She was hired as entertainment for the group's monthly meeting.
“I played guitar and sang some ballads,” Shepler said.
After a few conversations with neighbor and life-long friend, Judy Hoffer, Shepler agreed to join the club in 2006. Since then, Shepler has acted as secretary, treasurer and dinner chairwoman. She begins her new role as member chairwoman this year.
“Receiving the award was really nice,” Shepler said. “The members recognize and appreciate the work I've done, and that's special.”
“Gwen is willing to help anyone,” said President Laurie Hough. “She is always encouraging people and getting them excited about our events. Betsy has wonderful organization skills and a lovely personality. I am so fortunate to have both of these ladies.”
Blystone describes both the Ligonier and Latrobe clubs as a “tight-knit family.”
“We began as total strangers,” she said. “Now, these women are some of my best friends.”
In 2000, the BPW of Ligonier Valley became part of the Pennsylvania Federation of Business and Professional Women. According to their website, the club's “purpose is to promote equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information.” The Ligonier club currently has more than 97 members of all ages and backgrounds, and men are encouraged to join the organization as well.
Chloe Wertz is a contributing writer for Trib Total Media.
