WEST CHESTER — The AK Steel Foundation is underwriting the Steel Magnolia Awards — honoring eight women who reside in the vicinity of AK Steel’s corporate headquarters and plant operations who have overcome obstacles to make a difference in the lives of others.

The awards are worth $1,000 each and will be presented in the form of a grant made to an eligible non-profit selected by each recipient.    

“All of the award recipients are courageous women who, despite personal challenges, continue to make a significant difference in the lives of others,” said James L. Wainscott, Chairman, President and CEO of AK Steel.  “Through the company’s foundation, we are proud to honor these inspirational women by sponsoring the Steel Magnolia Awards.”

The Middletown Community Foundation independently administers the Steel Magnolia Awards program.  For additional information about the program, contact the Middletown Community Foundation at (513) 424-7369.  

2010 Steel Magnolia Award Recipients:

Barbara Condo of Fairfield.  Her award will benefit the One Way Farm Children’s Home.  

Traci Couch of Zanesville.  Her award will benefit Eastside Community Ministry.  

Elsa Croucher of Monroe.  Her award will benefit Citizens Against Domestic Violence.      

Maria Goodwill of West Lafayette, Ohio.  Her award will benefit the American Cancer Society.  

Cheryl Jarvis of Butler, Ohio.  Her award will benefit the Kats ‘N’ Kittens Foundation.  

Cheryl Schaefer of Butler, Pennsylvania.  Her award will benefit the Butler Health System Foundation.  

Beth Stein of Lamar, Indiana.  Her award will benefit Crisis Connection Inc.