Luncheon History
An annual tradition since 1999, the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas’ Power of the Purse Luncheon recognizes the accomplishments of women in our state, celebrates the work of the organization, and raises money to continue making progress toward economic security for Arkansas women and girls.
Woman in Public Service Award: First Lady Susan Hutchinson
Woman of the Year in Business Award: Esperanza Massana Crane, Director of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Division at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission
Woman of the Year in Philanthropy Award: Heather Larkin, President and CEO at Arkansas Community Foundation
Woman of the Year in Innovation Award: Shelley Simpson, Chief Commercial Officer and EVP of People and Human Resources at J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
About the Foundation
Since our founding in 1998, the WFA’s guiding principles have been consistent – to understand the diverse needs and realities facing women and girls so we can respond through purposeful action and engaged philanthropy.
Our mission focuses on ensuring economic security for Arkansas women and girls through focused philanthropic investment in their education and economic well-being. Through grant making, research, and our Girls of Promise and Women Empowered initiatives, the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas is investing in real solutions that allow women and girls to move up the economic ladder and reach their fullest potential.
The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (WFA) is the only statewide foundation that focuses solely on women and girls in Arkansas.
