United Way Women's Leadership Council's annual Power of the Purse Luncheon was held on Tuesday, June 30, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Quaker Station in Downtown Akron. The luncheon drew a crowd of nearly 400 to celebrate the power of women to bring about positive community change. Now in its thirteenth year, this signature event recognizes the special efforts of women philanthropists.
Keynote Speaker for the event was Dr. Beverly Warren, president of Kent State University. Dr. Warren pronounced it a day of "Girl Power" and praised United Way as the leader in demonstrating the power of women to give back to communities. Remarked Dr. Warren, "Women, regardless of demographic are more generous and donate more. It is our responsibility to harness our passions toward a better world." She also noted that women are not a niche audience. Their interests and passions include but go beyond only caring about children's issues.
The Barbara Mathews Woman Philanthropist of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Deborah S. Plate, D.O.