Substance, Meet Style: Houston’s Annual Women Of Substance Event

7^th Annual Women of Substance Luncheon A Huge Success

By Jennifer Roosth    Photography by Priscilla Dickson

THE SCENE: Creator and Producer Paul-David Van Atta rallied the more than 420 gorgeous guests in the ballroom of the Post Oak Hotel for the 7^th Annual Women of Substance luncheon. This year’s event honored Gina Bhatia, Laura Davenport, Elsie Eckert, Debbie Festari, Leisa Holland-Nelson Bowman, Kathy Givens, April McGee, Jordan Seff, Elizabeth Stein, Paula Sutton, Stephanie Tsuru, and Rini Ziegler as Women of Substance.   

THE VIBE: All honorees had their fan base in the audience, and as the Women of Substance were presented amidst a backdrop of their Warhol-style Pop-Art portraits photographed by Gittings, as friends and supporters applauded and cheered these women’s accomplishments and service to the community. Spirit of Substance Honoree Eileen Lawal was presented with the trademark award for this honor, an original Angel Glass sculpture created by famed Houston glass artist Bill Meek. Lifetime of Substance Honoree Cora Sue Mach was presented her award by best friend and 2022 Lifetime of Substance Honoree Sidney Faust.

THE NON-PROFIT: The event was chaired by Sippi Khurana, M.D. and Amy Pierce. Deborah Duncan and Ernie Manouse emceed the event and Bill King led the live auction. Gregg Harrison and David Batagower underwrote valet parking. This year’s beneficiary, Houston reVision, is a community of kinship, connecting caring adult volunteers, case managers, mental health professionals, and faith communities with disconnected youth. Houston reVision CEO Charles Rotramel expressed sincere gratitude for being named the beneficiary of all event proceeds for the next three years.