RENO, Nevada – Nevada Women’s Fund (NWF) will host the Celebrating Achievement dinner at the Western Folklife Center on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m. This event honors local scholarship recipients and celebrates the remarkable achievements of women in Northern Nevada.
In 2024, NWF proudly distributed over $500,000 in academic scholarships, underscoring its commitment to empowering women through education. Notably, 33% of these funds, approximately $160,000, were allocated to rural areas. Of this amount, $40,000 remained in Elko, Winnemucca and Battle Mountain. These scholarships support women in rural Nevada pursuing degrees in essential fields such as nursing, biology, early childhood education, radiologic technology as well as trade and vocational disciplines. This funding not only fosters individual achievement but also cultivates future leaders who will drive positive change within their communities.
“We are excited to showcase the accomplishments of these exceptional women and share their inspiring stories of perseverance and achievement,” said Ila Achtabowski, President & CEO of Nevada Women’s Fund. “The luncheon not only celebrates their academic success but also underscores our commitment to empowering women through education and career opportunities.”
In addition to recognizing and celebrating local scholarship recipients, the dinner will feature an inspirational message from keynote speaker Kirstie Ennis, U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant (Ret.), extreme adaptive athlete and philanthropist. Ennis’s journey, from military service to becoming a Paralympic athlete and advocate for disabled veterans, embodies courage and resilience. Beyond her athletic feats, Ennis holds three Master’s degrees in human behavior, business administration and public administration, and is pursuing a doctorate in education. She is actively involved in various philanthropic efforts, including her foundation that provides therapeutic climbing clinics and mobility-based equipment for disabled, veteran and minority communities globally.
Additionally, Great Basin College President Amber Donnelli will offer insights into the transformative impact of education on women’s lives.
Sponsorship and advertisement opportunities for the Celebrating Achievement luncheon are still available, offering businesses and individuals the chance to support NWF’s mission while gaining visibility among a diverse audience of community leaders and advocates. For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to reserve tickets, visit nevadawomensfund.org/events or call (775) 786-2335.
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About the Nevada Women’s Fund
Established in 1982, Nevada Women’s Fund (NWF) was formed to empower achievement in Northern Nevada women and families. Nevada Women’s Fund is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, dedicated to strengthening our community by empowering women to uplift their lives and those of their families through education and career advancement. Over 40 years, NWF has awarded more than $9.4 million to Northern Nevada women, families and non-profit community organizations. Visit NevadaWomensFund.org for more information.
