March 20, 2025
Each year, the Women's Endowment Fund hosts its signature "For Women, Forever" event to celebrate women as philanthropists and to showcase the fund's impact on women and girls in our community. Next year's event will take place on Thursday, March 20, at 6 p.m. at House Three Thirty and will be hosted by Sara Shookman, founder of Storyglow Studio.
Be among the first to be notified of ticket sales for the 2025 Annual Celebration by signing up for the Women's Endowment Fund's e-newsletter.
Our Keynote Speaker
This year's keynote address will be delivered by Valerie Mayén, the founder of the socially conscious fashion brand Yellowcake. As a Cleveland-based Latinx entrepreneur, Valerie leads a diverse team focused on creating high-quality, handmade garments designed for everyone. Yellowcake's mission is rooted in sustainability and inclusivity, with practices like a buy-back program and lifetime garment repairs.
Valerie's passion for fashion began despite a conservative upbringing and financial challenges. She studied illustration at the Cleveland Institute of Art and Otis College of Art and Design, eventually teaching herself garment construction. Her innovative designs gained international recognition through "Project Runway."
Beyond fashion, Valerie's work promotes environmental responsibility and emboldens individuals to express their authentic selves. Her dedication has earned her acclaim and positions her as a sought-after speaker who inspires diverse audiences with her engaging presentations.
Event Sponsorships
We invite you to make a difference in the lives of local women and girls by becoming an event sponsor. Your commitment to this important cause is recognized at the celebration, which is annually attended by more than 500 community leaders.
Judith A. Read Tribute Award Recipient
Named for one of Greater Akron's most influential philanthropic leaders, the Judith A. Read Tribute Award for Service & Advocacy for Women was created in 2016 to honor Judy Read's lifetime of service and extraordinary commitment to empowering women and girls. It is presented annually to the individual or couple who best exemplifies Judy's service, advocacy, leadership and passion in the community.
The 2025 award recipient is Katie Smucker. Katie has called Akron home since 2002, after living and working in numerous locales from Colorado to Brazil to Canada. As a dedicated community volunteer, Katie has served on the boards and committees of many local nonprofit organizations, including the Women's Endowment Fund, Akron Community Foundation, Love Akron, the Akron Art Museum, and Junior Leadership Akron. During her tenure on the Women's Endowment Fund Advisory Board, Katie chaired the fund's signature "For Women, Forever" event and its biennial Forum on Women and Girls. Prior to moving to Akron, Katie worked in various marketing and operations roles in Latin America. She is a graduate of Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, and Catholic University Quito Ecuador.
