Deb Lyle named 2026 Woman to Watch
Graceworks is honored to congratulate Deb Lyle, Administrator of Graceworks Enhanced Living, on being named a 2026 Woman to Watch!
Presented by Women in Business Networking (WiBN), this recognition honors women who make waves—often quietly, yet powerfully—through their leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to improving lives. WiBN’s 2026 Women to Watch bring a force of change in their communities and professions, and Deb exemplifies that in every way.
For 35 years, Deb has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities—27 of those years with Graceworks Enhanced Living. Under her leadership, our programming has expanded from 16 to 44 homes across Montgomery, Greene, Butler, and Hamilton counties, in addition to two day programs, impacting hundreds of lives through compassionate, community-based care.
But Deb’s leadership doesn’t stop there. She co-founded and now chairs the Values & Faith Alliance, a statewide coalition advocating for disability policy improvements in Ohio. Nationally, she presides over the Lutheran Services in America Disability Network, representing over 40 providers across the country.
A graduate of Leadership Dayton’s 2013 class, Deb also actively supports the military community and volunteers regularly with local nonprofits, exemplifying servant leadership in all aspects of her life.
Judy Budi, Graceworks President and CEO, shared, “Over the years, I’ve seen Deb manage the complexities of leading 350 employees across 45+ locations while maintaining the same calm, steady presence in every room she enters. She has 24-hour responsibility, seven days a week and gives passionately to the individuals and staff who work to create a home and place of stability and safety for many.”
“Deb inspires me to never lose sight of the people at the center of the work we do.”
—Judy Budi
Whether she’s testifying before a city council, educating communities to dispel stigmas, or giving her time to area organizations, Deb brings humility, courage, and integrity to all she does.
We’re delighted to see her recognized for the remarkable impact she makes every day.
