The Sister Accord® Foundation Celebrates 13 Years of Sisterhood and Leadership
On August 31, 2026, The Sister Accord® Foundation proudly celebrated its 13th annual Sister Accord® Day, a milestone that encourages sisterhood and mutual support among women and girls. This event unfolded over an inspiring weekend filled with activities and engagements, designed to emphasize leadership, mentorship, and community service.
A Weekend of Inspiring Events
The festivities began on Saturday, August 29, at the Maketewah Country Club with the Foundation's 36th Leadership Development Tea Party. This gathering served as a platform for discussions surrounding leadership, empowerment, and the importance of supporting one another. Among the attendees were community leaders, changemakers, and artists who have made significant contributions to their fields.
Five notable leaders were recognized during the event for their outstanding contributions:
- - Jonathan Butler, Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter
- - Courtis Fuller, esteemed journalist and Hall of Fame member
- - Patrick Lafley, Managing Partner at Constellation Wealth Advisors
- - Alicia Reece, Vice President of Hamilton County Commission
- - Amy B. Spiller, State President of Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky
The event provided a unique opportunity for networking and discussion, allowing guests to share insights and foster connections that can lead to mutual growth and empowerment.
Educational Opportunities and Scholarships
This year, two deserving students, Taylor Evans and Isley Mitchell, were awarded the Nella D. Jackson Memorial Scholarship, each receiving $5,000 to support their educational journeys. The Foundation also introduced an additional $5,000 scholarship opportunity for other attendees, showcasing its commitment to education and empowerment.
Furthermore, Jean Freeman, CEO of Zambezi, announced a generous donation of $50,000 to aid in the third cohort of The Sister Accord® Accelerator Program. This initiative is set to launch later in the year, with a focus on supporting women entrepreneurs. Seven women-owned businesses will benefit from this program, receiving coaching, mentorship, and grants of $10,000 each to help their ventures thrive.
Celebrations Continue with Music and Art
As the weekend progressed, guests enjoyed a live performance from Jonathan Butler at The Ludlow Garage, encapsulating the spirit of the event with music that celebrates unity and empowerment. The celebrations culminated on Sunday, August 30, with a stunning performance by Stokley, a Grammy-nominated artist known for his soulful music.
Promoting Acts of Kindness
Sister Accord Day, officially recognized by the City of Cincinnati in 2013, invites individuals to perform random acts of kindness towards women and girls, aimed at extending the message of sisterhood well beyond the eventings. Each year, the Foundation's mission reminds attendees and participants of the power of community and the positive impact that constructive relationships bring.
Continuing the Mission of Support and Empowerment
Sonia Jackson Myles, the founder of The Sister Accord® Foundation, expressed immense gratitude for the collective efforts of all honorees, sponsors, and supporters. “This weekend was extraordinary! To see so many incredible people come together in the spirit of sisterhood, love, leadership, and service was incredibly powerful,” she stated. “Thirteen years after the inception of Sister Accord Day in Cincinnati, my inspiration for this mission only grows.”
The Foundation, through its various initiatives—including leadership development and business grants—has positively impacted the lives of countless girls and women, having distributed nearly half a million dollars in scholarships and grants to date. This event not only celebrates the progress made over the years but reaffirms the commitment to fostering long-lasting relationships and support among women in the community.
As the Sister Accord® Foundation continues to expand its reach, it remains a beacon of hope and empowerment for women everywhere. With ongoing support from generous sponsors such as Duke Energy, The Christ Hospital Health Network, and Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries, the Foundation's impact is sure to grow in the years to come.
For more information and to get involved, visit
The Sister Accord® Foundation's website.