2025 Women of Influence Summit to Honor Senator Debbie Stabenow and Celebrate Women’s Leadership and Impact Across the Region

DETROIT, MI (March 12, 2025) – United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s ninth annual Women of Influence Summit will take place on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at MotorCity Casino, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI. Presented by Walker-Miller Energy Services, the event will once again honor trailblazing women who have made a significant impact in their fields and communities while raising critical funds for early childhood education programs. The event’s keynote speaker, sponsored by Rocket Companies, will be Donna Orender.

Organized by United Way’s Women United affinity group, this annual event is more than a celebration—it’s a driving force for change. This network of passionate, community-minded women work to strengthen the stability of households across the region, particularly in the areas of education, economic mobility, and health. Through this event and year-round advocacy, Women United empowers women to be leaders and change agents throughout Southeastern Michigan.

Inspiring Keynote and Powerful Honorees

This year’s keynote speaker, sponsored by Rocket Companies is Donna Orender, former President of the WNBA, who spent 17 years with the PGA Tour and is the bestselling author of Wowsdom! The Girl’s Guide to the Positive and the Possible. Orender is known for her powerful message on leadership, resilience, and breaking barriers for women in business and beyond.

A Lifetime of Leadership: Honoring Senator Debbie Stabenow

Senator Debbie Stabenow will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her decades of public service and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Michigan families. Her leadership and advocacy have left an indelible mark on the state and serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of women.

Additionally, Suzanne Shank, co-founder and President of Siebert Williams Shank & Co. will be honored with the 2025 Woman of Influence Award for her exemplary leadership, groundbreaking achievements in finance, and commitment to creating opportunities for women and young people.

“The Women of Influence Summit is a shining example of what happens when women come together to make a difference,” says Dr. Darienne Hudson, president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “From innovative businesses to public service and beyond, women are changing lives and building stronger communities. Our sponsors, supporters, and Women United, allow us to show up for families across our region—creating real opportunities and real change, when it is most needed.”

Women Owned Marketplace

As in previous years, the Women Owned Marketplace will feature local, women-owned businesses, offering attendees the chance to connect with and support inspiring entrepreneurs in the community. Over the last two years this marketplace has invested over $50,000 into small businesses and the local economy.

Marketplace Participants:

Since its start in 2017, the Women of Influence Summit has raised over $1.6 million to support early childhood education programs that directly help children and families in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties. Proceeds from the event support United Way’s early education work and youth learning programs focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and literacy.

Platinum Sponsors

Walker-Miler Energy Services (Presenting Sponsor)
Rocket Companies

Gold Sponsors

Accenture
BOSCH
DTE Foundation
PNC
Roush
Stellantis

Silver Sponsors

AutoLiv
Bank of America
BorgWarner
Clark Hill
Dakkota
Deloitte
GM
Henry Ford Health
Kelle Ilitch and Family
Jessica Stencel/DOBI
Knight Foundation
Kresge
OneMagnify
PwC
Rehmann
S&P Global
Skillman Foundation

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please email WomenUnited@LiveUnitedSEM.org or call 313-26-9200.

Media Contact

Jerome Espy, Senior Director, Communications and Media Relations, 248-417-9567, Jerome.Espy@LiveUnitedSEM.org

About United Way for Southeastern Michigan

United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to helping households achieve stability and ensuring that children have the resources they need to thrive. For over 100 years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable, and sustainable change in communities throughout Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties The organization collaborates with donors, agencies, corporations, and municipal partners to support essential services such as housing, food security, healthcare, and education. To give, advocate, volunteer, or learn more, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.

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