Susan Myers-Sutton
Susan Myers-Sutton is the Founder and President of The EMBER Project, a nonprofit organization based in Ohio dedicated to empowering teen and early mothers through education, mentorship, and financial literacy. Launched in December 2024, The EMBER Project was created to break cycles of generational poverty by equipping young mothers with the tools, resources, and support needed to pursue education, build sustainable careers, and achieve long-term independence. Under Susan’s leadership, the organization has grown rapidly, serving young women across the Mahoning Valley through a structured, evidence-based, four-phase mentorship model focused on academic achievement, career readiness, and financial empowerment.
In addition to leading The EMBER Project, Susan serves as a Regional Partnership Manager with Oak Street Health, part of CVS Health, where she brings more than five years of experience in community outreach, relationship-building, and program development. She balances her full-time role with hands-on leadership of EMBER’s day-to-day operations, overseeing program intake, volunteer coordination, grant writing, fundraising, sponsorship outreach, podcast production, and strategic partnerships. Her professional background in healthcare outreach and nonprofit management informs her practical, results-driven approach to social impact.
Susan’s work is rooted in the belief that early motherhood does not end dreams—it can ignite them. She has completed multiple management and nonprofit startup programs, including Southwestern Consulting coursework and the ARCOVA Masterclass, and holds two associate degrees from West Virginia Northern Community College. She is an active member of several professional and civic organizations, including Kiwanis and Business and Professional Women. In recognition of her community impact, Susan received the Gem of the Valley Award in 2025, honoring her dedication to uplifting young mothers and strengthening families and communities throughout Ohio.
• Gem of the Valley Award
• President’s Club Winner in 2024
• Columbus chapter of Kiwanis
• Business and Professional Women
• Dandelion
• Thrive 1010
• BODY
• Esther House
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep passion for my field and the resilience shaped by my experience as a teen mother. While working full time, I remain committed to helping teens overcome similar challenges by providing the support and guidance I once needed to succeed and raise their children.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that greatness is achievable if you keep looking forward and consistently set clear goals to guide your path.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Susan encourages young women entering the industry to recognize their power to create meaningful change—both within their communities and beyond. She emphasizes the importance of persistence and mentorship, noting that returning to school and pursuing education is achievable, even after teen motherhood. With the guidance of strong mentors and a commitment to their goals, women can successfully navigate challenges and make a lasting impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the field right now is balancing the demands of working full time while running a nonprofit, all while remaining present for family. At the same time, this challenge represents a powerful opportunity—driven by deep passion for the mission. Receiving the Gem of the Valley award in 2025 when the nonprofit was launched further strengthened her commitment to growing the organization and expanding its impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value in both my work and personal life is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young mothers and their children by supporting, empowering, and helping them build stronger futures.