Fullerton to Celebrate Women Leaders at Annual Leadership Forum

Community and civic leaders will gather on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, for the 21st Annual Fullerton Women’s Leadership Forum (FWLF)— one of the city’s most anticipated celebrations of women who make a lasting impact on their community. The event runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Fullerton Community Center Grand Hall, 340 W. Commonwealth Ave.

Hosted by Fullerton Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shana Charles, City Councilwoman Jamie Valencia, and the Woman’s Club of Fullerton (WCOF), the forum is a free community event that drew more than 200 attendees in 2024, including city and state officials.

“The Fullerton Women’s Leadership Forum is an incredible opportunity to bring together women from all walks of life to share experiences, strengthen connections, and inspire one another to lead with confidence and purpose,” said Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shana Charles. “I’m proud to help create a space where women can empower each other and celebrate their collective achievements.”

Councilwoman Jamie Valencia added, “I’m honored to co-host this event in Fullerton, a city that continues to nurture strong, talented women who make a difference in our community every day. The Women’s Leadership Forum is a reflection of that spirit of leadership and service.”

The event carries forward a strong legacy. Two decades ago, when she was a Fullerton City Councilwoman, California State Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva launched the FWLF to honor women shaping Fullerton’s future. 

She continued to lead the FWLF along with former City Council Member Pam Keller, former Council Member Jan Flory, former Mayor Jennifer Fitzgerald, and the Woman’s Club of Fullerton. This year, the torch has been passed on to a new generation of leaders.

“Fullerton has always been a city of women who roll up their sleeves and make things happen,” said Jane Rands, FWLF Planning Committee Chair and WCOF member. “This forum is about recognizing that spirit and ensuring it continues to inspire the next generation.”

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s honorees of the Fullerton Women’s Leadership Forum. As the original founder of the event, I am incredibly proud to see Councilmembers Dr. Shana Charles and Jamie Valencia carrying forward the mission of recognizing extraordinary women in our community who exemplify leadership and service,” remarked Silva. “I also wish to thank the Women’s Club of Fullerton for their steadfast commitment to growing this event and fostering a space that uplifts and inspires women to be catalysts for change within their communities.”

That spirit—captured in the WCOF motto, “the power of women”—is reflected in this year’s honorees:

• Saskia Kennedy – Community Connector
Editor of the Fullerton Observer, Kennedy amplifies the voices of residents and drives civic engagement through community journalism.

• Allison Ritto – Leadership in Business
Ritto champions small businesses through fundraisers and pop-ups that blend commerce, creativity, and community.

• Robin Rush – Humanitarian Award
As Founding CEO of Recovery Road, Inc., Rush has built a service network providing food and support to more than 70,000 people annually.

• Jane Reifer – Lifetime Leadership Award
A tireless preservationist, Reifer helped save the Fox Fullerton Theatre and Hunt Branch Library while advocating for sustainable growth.

• Christina Garner – Leadership in the Arts
Founder of the Urban Village Project, Garner enriches the city’s cultural landscape through arts and community collaboration.

• Dr. Debra Stout – Leadership in Nonprofits
As Executive Director of the Fullerton Collaborative and CSUF psychology professor, Stout unites organizations tackling homelessness, early childhood needs, and community wellness.

Attendees will enjoy light refreshments, wine, and networking opportunities, along with the chance to meet local nonprofit leaders. Adding to the evening’s charm, Interim City Manager Eddie Manfroe, Police Chief Jon Radus, and Fire Chief Adam Loeser will serve wine to guests.

For event details, sponsorship opportunities, or registration, visit https://wcof.club/fullertonwomenleadership/ or contact info@WCOF.club.

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