10th Anniversary Celebration

Building a Legacy of Leadership

Corinthian Houston
202 Fannin Street | Houston, Texas
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 – 11:30am to 1:30pm

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CORINTHIAN HOUSTON

We gathered at the Corinthian Houston for our milestone event.

Built in 1909, this majestic neo-classical treasure was home to the First National Bank for more than half a century.

An award-winning restoration by developer Frank Garvey meticulously added modern venue amenities to this building in the heart of downtown Houston.

REGISTRATION AND RECEPTION

During the opening reception and registration period, guests were regaled by music played by a trio from the Kinder High School of Performing and Visual Arts as they enjoyed champagne and mimosas, got (re)acquainted, perused artwork by Shadia Milan, and looked at the items available for bidding during our silent auction.

EMCEE

Simone Green of Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Houston served as our emcee.

Simone Green

INVOCATION AND LUNCH

Dr. Ruth Allen Ollison, Founder of Beulah Land Community Church, delivered a powerful invocation that opened the lunchtime meal.

COUNCIL MEMBER TIFFANY D. THOMAS

Houston Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas honored us with a powerful video.

HONOREES

We were pleased to honor eight deserving individuals for their commitment to mentoring and to community service.

Emcee Simone Green announced the winners and WIF Vice Chair and Treasurer Anubhav Kapil presented the honorees with their trophies.

Extraordinary Public Service Award – VANESSA WYCHE

For public service that advances the policies and issues relevant to the lives of woman and girls while supporting the growth and success of women through mentoring.

Unsung Heroine Award – KARA BRANCH

For working without expectation of recognition to better the lives of women and girls. The awardee works behind the scenes, providing support – including mentoring – to help others succeed.

Community Leadership Award – DR. TEDDY McDAVID

For improving the lives of women and girls in her community and demonstrating a desire to share her talent with girls, encouraging them to grow into confident, successful women.

Community Advocate of the Year Award – DR. RUTH ALLEN OLLISON

For serving as the voice of her community, advocating for change to resolve issues for the betterment of the entire community, while lifting women and girls for future leadership.

Spirit of Equality Award – PAPIA BANJEREE GAMBELIN

For demonstrating through service to others, either at work or as a volunteer, a commitment to improving people’s lives and creating equality for all.

Annie Powell Youth of the Year Award – SEANTE JOHNSON

For a young adult who has persevered and is succeeding against incredible odds.

Malcolm Wells Man of the Year Award – JEFF SHAW

For the man who has used his influence, position, and personal commitment to champion the rights of women and worked to ensure that women are equal partners in all professional and community endeavors.

Organization of the Year – BLACK GIRLS DO ENGINEER

For outstanding accomplishments by a nonprofit organization, including staff and volunteers, that demonstrate its dedication to “doing good” for the benefit of women and girls in our community.

GUESTS

We had a full house for the event.

Gold Sponsor United Airlines was present in force to support honoree Papia Gambelin.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

WIF’s founder and CEO, Dr. Monique Y. Wells, delivered a keynote address while attendees enjoyed dessert.

She was surprised when WIF volunteer and 2023 Annie Powell Youth of the Year Honoree Destiny Fagbohun presented her with a portrait of herself. Destiny thanked Dr. Wells for being the first person to support her in her desire to pursue art on a professional basis.

After the keynote address and lunch were concluded, attendees had a final opportunity to mingle, take photos, and meet WIF’s founder and board members.