Celebrating Grace, Brilliance, and Dedication at the Women of IMPACT Gala

On an unforgettable evening in Salt Lake City, IMPACT Magazine hosted its annual Women of IMPACT Honorary Black-Tie Gala, a night dedicated to honoring trailblazing women whose leadership, grace, and contributions have left an indelible mark on their communities. Held at the exclusive Edison House, the event was a celebration of elegance, empowerment, and excellence.

This year’s gala, Robyn Oguinye of FOX News 13 hosted the red carpet. The poised and dynamic Morgan Brown hosted the gala that brought together attendees from across the nation to recognize four extraordinary honorees: Connie Washington, Emma Houston, Dr. Joyce Gray, and Frances Battle. Each honoree was celebrated for their unwavering dedication, groundbreaking leadership, and relentless pursuit of equity and excellence.

Honoring Women Who Lead With IMPACT 

A signature moment of the evening was the presentation of custom-designed necklaces by Omoyeni, gifted to each honoree as a token of appreciation for their extraordinary contributions. The necklaces, carefully crafted to symbolize strength, elegance, and individuality, served as a lasting reminder of the honorees’ impact on the world.

In a surprise gesture, a special dedication necklace was also presented to Lavonne Sandberg. The heartfelt moment underscored the spirit of gratitude and connection central to the gala.

A Partnership Rooted in Inclusion

This year, the Women of IMPACT Gala was elevated by a meaningful partnership with Ancestry, whose commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion aligned seamlessly with the mission of the event.

Ashlee Davis, Ancestry’s Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, delivered powerful remarks that resonated deeply with the audience:

“Because this is a Women of IMPACT night, I have to say to my Black sistas in this space: let us retain and refrain from allowing anyone to take our grace, our beauty, and our brilliance.”

Davis’ words echoed the themes of the evening, celebrating the resilience and brilliance of women, particularly Black women, in spaces that often seek to dim their light.

An Evening of Glamour and Connection

Morgan Brown’s return as host added an air of familiarity and warmth to the gala. Her ability to command the stage with grace and authenticity set the tone for an evening filled with inspiration and celebration.

Every detail of the gala, from the meticulously chosen table settings to the vibrant floral arrangements, reflected the care and thought poured into the event. Guests mingled during the elegant cocktail hour, enjoyed exquisite cuisine, and participated in meaningful conversations about leadership, community, and empowerment.

For those who traveled from near and far to join the celebration, the evening was a testament to the power of community and the importance of uplifting those who lead with purpose.

A Movement, Not Just a Moment

As the Women of IMPACT Gala came to a close, it was clear that this event was more than just a night of celebration—it was a movement to honor and amplify the voices of women who are transforming the world. The gala not only recognized individual achievements but also reinforced the importance of collective action and shared purpose in driving change.