Notre Dame High School in downtown San Jose celebrated its 9th annual Women of Impact luncheon on October 5th. The luncheon recognizes and celebrates the role women have played in history, showcasing their contributions and leadership in business and the community. Developed to spotlight women who have made significant contributions to society, the event also generates awareness of the need to provide opportunities for young women outside the scope of traditional education. This year’s event honored Lisa Sobrato Sonsini, president of the board of the Sobrato Family Foundation, and Kelly Powell ’88 Bruno, CEO of the National Health Foundation. In conjunction with the event, Notre Dame also recognized 30 alumnae under 30 who were nominated and selected by their peers for significant contributions they have made in their professional and/or personal lives.
At the luncheon, Lisa and Kelly gave speeches sharing the struggles and victories women have faced to have their voices heard and inspired the more than 750 attendees with hope for the leaders of tomorrow, drawing attention to the quality of young women graduating from Notre Dame. Speaking of her morning presentation to the students of Notre Dame, Lisa shared with the audience that “it was breathtaking to see the power of the possible in that room.”
The oldest high school for girls in the western United States, Notre Dame began educating the women of the valley in 1851 and has been preparing young women for leadership, global citizenship and socially-just entrepreneurship for 166 years. The proceeds from the event, which was moved to the San Jose Convention Center to accommodate a larger audience, will be used to continue that mission.