#USA #New York #Dress for Success #Gloria Steinem #Julianna Margulies

The 2026 Women Who Inspire Luncheon

Dress for Success® Worldwide is set to host its annual "Women Who Inspire" Luncheon on September 30, 2026, at the iconic Tribeca Rooftop in New York City. This year, the event carries the empowering theme of "Rise Together," a statement reflecting the belief that meaningful progress can never be achieved alone. This celebration aims to honor women who inspire, leaders who help others thrive, and the global community that makes every breakthrough possible.

During the luncheon, the organization will pay special tribute to renowned social activist, writer, and global advocate Gloria Steinem. Steinem's visionary leadership and fearless advocacy have inspired generations, encouraging countless individuals to voice their opinions, pursue their dreams, and challenge institutional barriers. Her profound influence continues to resonate across social movements, industries, and communities worldwide.

In a highlight of the event, Steinem was originally scheduled to speak in celebration of her latest publication, An Unexpected Life. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the luncheon will now include a special tribute segment featuring distinguished guests Julianna Margulies, an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress, and Amy Richards, a producer, writer, and social activist. The two will celebrate Steinem’s remarkable life, her lasting legacy, and her relentless efforts in championing equality and expanding opportunities for women and girls around the globe over the decades.

CEO Joanie Bily stated, "The courage and wisdom of Gloria Steinem, along with her steadfast commitment to expanding opportunities for women and girls, has led to lasting changes for women everywhere. We are deeply honored to celebrate her remarkable life and lasting legacy, which has profoundly influenced generations of women worldwide. As Dress for Success Worldwide's first strategic advisor, her visionary leadership and unwavering belief in equality have sparked a movement that has opened more opportunities and helped shape a future in which women can fully realize their potential in both the workplace and their lives."

In addition to honoring Steinem, the luncheon will also recognize organizations and partners that actively expand access to resources and opportunities for women, promote equity, and pave new paths toward greater, sustainable economic advancement. Through collective action and shared commitment, the "Women Who Inspire" Luncheon emphasizes the importance of investing in initiatives and services that support women while strengthening families, communities, and economies.

This year’s event is possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of corporate partners such as ARM & HAMMER™ Laundry, The Adecco Group US Foundation, Benefit Cosmetics, The Coca-Cola Company, KnitWell Group, GEICO Philanthropic Foundation, and Ulta Beauty, alongside media partner Gear Communications. Long-time partner TJ Maxx will once again sponsor the luncheon and provide professional styling services for global ambassadors as part of their ongoing support for the Global Ambassador Program.

The funds raised during the luncheon will be utilized to provide career development, job readiness, financial education, and entrepreneurship-related programs and services through a global network of 129 member organizations operating in 17 countries. This outreach aims to support women globally, enabling them to achieve greater economic positions and contributing to community resilience.

For more information about the "Women Who Inspire" Luncheon or to support Dress for Success Worldwide, please visit DressforSuccess.org.

About Dress for Success® Worldwide

Dress for Success® Worldwide is a leading provider of workplace development support for women around the globe. Through our extensive support network, professional attire, and the vital skills training and tools needed to succeed, we empower women to enhance their economic status. Founded in 1997, our vision is a world where women can realize their potential fully in both careers and life. We provide coaching, career attire, and ongoing community support through our proprietary Success360 program framework. Today, Dress for Success offers re-skilling for career transitions, supporting women entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses, as well as sustainability, financial literacy, and wellness initiatives. With a strong global member network, we have supported over 1.5 million women worldwide, aiming to reach 2 million women by 2030.