Empowering What's Next: A Celebration of Women’s Leadership and Resilience

​​The 2024 Women's Leadership Luncheon at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa was a powerful celebration of women’s resilience, leadership, and forward momentum. Sponsored by Anchorum Health Foundation, this annual event brought together over 300 attendees from diverse backgrounds and professions, each eager to embrace the theme, "What’s Next." The day highlighted remarkable stories, collective empowerment, and actionable insights on navigating challenges and seizing new opportunities.

Morning Kickoff: Networking and Welcome

The day began with attendees arriving for check-in and networking. Energized by the community’s spirit, participants filled the ballroom, eager to connect and exchange stories. The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce officially opened the event, welcoming everyone to an inspiring morning dedicated to fostering women’s advancement in business and community leadership.

Keynote: Valerie Plame’s Inspiring Journey
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As lunch began, keynote speaker Valerie Plame, former CIA operative, author, and advocate, took the stage. Known for her expertise in national security, Valerie shared her extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation. With humor and insight, she discussed her transition from covert operations to a public life, urging women to embrace change, face adversity with courage, and consider what’s next in their own journeys. Her words left a lasting impression, underscoring the importance of staying adaptable and empowered through every phase of life.

Panel Discussion: Wisdom from Leaders

Following the keynote, Anchorum Health Foundation introduced a panel discussion featuring prominent leaders and change-makers, moderated by Bridget Dixson, President & CEO of the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, and Sayuri Yamada, President of Kizuna Strategies. The panelists included:
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• The Honorable Laura M. Montoya, New Mexico State Treasurer, who shared her experiences as the state’s first Latina Treasurer, focusing on financial literacy and inclusion.
  
  
• Olivia Sloan, VP of Native Health Partnerships at Anchorum Health Foundation, who provided insight into healthcare equity for Indigenous communities, drawing on her background and dedication to Native health.
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• Jennifer L. Jenkins, Principal at JenkinsGavin, Inc., shared inspiring insights on the power of working with an all-women team, the importance of taking bold chances, and her transformative journey as an entrepreneur. She emphasized the value of resilience and collaboration in building a successful business and creating a lasting impact in the community.

Throughout the conversation, panelists shared personal stories of perseverance, offering practical advice on overcoming obstacles and achieving lasting impact. The discussions highlighted the diverse paths to leadership, emphasizing that the journey is as vital as the destination.

A Day of Giving: Silent Auction and Kendra Scott Jewelry Sales

Attendees were also invited to participate in a silent auction, featuring exclusive gift baskets donated by the Santa Fe Chamber's Board of Directors. Generously sponsored by Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, all proceeds from the auction directly benefit the Chamber’s initiatives. Alongside the auction, a selection of Kendra Scott jewelry was available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Chamber’s mission. Kendra Scott’s commitment to philanthropy and women’s empowerment made this partnership a fitting complement to the event.

Beautiful Touches: Paseo Pottery Centerpieces

Local, woman-owned business Paseo Pottery contributed unique centerpieces that adorned each table, featuring their stunning pottery paired with floral arrangements. Attendees could purchase these one-of-a-kind pieces with proceeds directly supporting the artisans. Paseo Pottery also showcased a selection of handcrafted items at their booth, where guests could learn more about their pottery classes and other offerings.

A Memorable Close and Thank You

The luncheon concluded with heartfelt remarks, thanking the attendees and sponsors who made the day possible. From Valerie Plame’s captivating keynote to the diverse insights shared by each panelist, the 2024 Women’s Leadership Luncheon celebrated the collective power of women uplifting one another. Anchorum Health Foundation’s sponsorship underscored the importance of community support in empowering women to pursue their ambitions and redefine what’s next.

As participants left the Eldorado Hotel, they carried with them newfound motivation and the understanding that when women support one another, they create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the event. This inspiring day reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to nurturing leadership and creating opportunities that empower women across New Mexico.

Images by Cousineau Studios