Annual Women's Leadership Brunch

At the Annual Women's Leadership Brunch, you'll hear powerful stories of what it really means to lead with courage—from emerging voices finding their place to established changemakers scaling their impact. Together, we'll explore the uncomfortable truths about leadership, celebrate bold moves that matter, and discover how to bring courage to your own journey.

2026 Honoree

This year, we're honored to celebrate the leadership of Denella J. Clark, President and CEO of the Boston Arts Academy Foundation.

For more than 30 years, Denella J. Clark has been advancing equity and opportunity across Boston. As President and CEO of the Boston Arts Academy Foundation, she secures essential funding for the city's only public high school dedicated to arts education—where 84% of students identify as Black or Latinx, and 97% of college applicants have been accepted every year for a decade. Her leadership has transformed lives: more than 1,700 BAA alumni are now innovating and leading careers across Greater Boston and beyond. Fiercely committed to equity, inclusion, and raising revenue for the public good, Denella brings that same vision to every challenge.

Whether you're just beginning to find your voice or ready to amplify your impact, this is your space to connect, celebrate, and rise.

Empowerment Champion Awardees

We're also recognizing Empowerment Champion Awardees Lynn Masterma and Cynthia Maltbie.

Featured Girls’ LEAP Youth Speaker

Hear from Ja'Netta Williams, a Girls' LEAP program participant, as she shares her powerful story of courage and transformation.

Thank you to our Host Committee

• Aisha Miller, Committee Chair & Board Member
• Alkia Powell, Board President
• Neva Coakley-Grice, Board Member, Retired - Boston Public Schools
• Crystal Haynes Copithrone, Simmons University
• Stephan Farber, Related Beal
• Paul Francisco, State Street
• Steven Godfrey, Quincy Geneva New Vision/CDC

• Melanie Herrera Cárdenas, Teen Mentor
• Philip Carver, UMass Boston
• Jennifer Flanagan, Mirick
• Andrea Haddad, Ernst Young, LLP
• Raquel Ortiz, Southwestern University
• Wendy Rue Williams, Manulife