Atlanta, GA, October 16, 2025
News Summary
The Georgia State women’s basketball team will host the 2026 Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon on January 30, 2026. This event aims to enhance leadership and personal development for student-athletes by connecting them with successful women in various fields. Attendees will participate in networking events, mentorship opportunities, and panel discussions featuring notable speakers. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering meaningful relationships and skills beneficial beyond athletic careers.
Atlanta to Host Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon in 2026
The Georgia State women’s basketball team is set to host the 2026 Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon on Friday, January 30, 2026. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the University Club at Center Parc Credit Union Stadium.
This luncheon is part of the Women Empower, Women Excel program aimed at fostering leadership, connection, and personal development for Georgia State student-athletes. The initiative introduces student-athletes to successful women working in a variety of fields, including business, education, entertainment, wellness, and community leadership.
Planned activities for this year’s event include networking events, mentorship opportunities, and leadership experiences designed to help student-athletes cultivate meaningful relationships and acquire skills that will benefit them beyond their athletic careers. The luncheon will also feature a speaker panel, networking brunch, and inspiring conversations.
Panel Discussions
The luncheon will encompass three significant panel discussions:
- Breaking Barriers: Women Leading in Male-Dominated Fields
- Building Wealth from the Ground Up: Personal Finance Strategies in Your Early 20s
- Beyond the Business: The Power of Networking and Community for Career Growth
Featured Speakers
Among the honorees and speakers for the 2026 luncheon are:
- Dr. Egypt Sherrod: Emmy-nominated TV host, real estate mogul, and philanthropist; founder & CEO of Indigo Road; advocate for women entrepreneurs.
- René Chatfield: Chief Strategist at Chat Champs Consulting; experienced in connecting creatives with brands; former Division I basketball player.
- Timber Hines: Assistant Vice President for Wellness at Georgia State University; oversees student wellness initiatives across six campuses; two-time Georgia State graduate.
- Pamela J. Smith: President & CEO of Smith Real Estate Services, Inc.; has over four decades of experience in commercial real estate; renowned community leader.
- Mathilda Lambert: Vice President of Community and Business Development at JPMorgan Chase; focuses on advancing economic equity in underserved communities.
The 2026 Women Excel honorees will also be recognized during a Georgia State women’s basketball game against Texas State on Saturday, January 31, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets and sponsorships for the luncheon are currently available for purchase. For additional information, individuals can contact Bethany Fortson via email at [email protected].
FAQ
What is the Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon?
The Georgia State women’s basketball team will host the 2026 Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon on Friday, January 30, 2026.
Where will the luncheon be held?
The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the University Club at Center Parc Credit Union Stadium.
What is the purpose of the Women Empower, Women Excel program?
The Women Empower, Women Excel program aims to foster leadership, connection, and personal development for Georgia State student-athletes.
Who are some of the featured speakers for the luncheon?
Honorees and speakers include Dr. Egypt Sherrod, René Chatfield, Timber Hines, Pamela J. Smith, and Mathilda Lambert.
Event Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Luncheon Date | Friday, January 30, 2026 |
| Location | University Club at Center Parc Credit Union Stadium |
| Event Duration | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. |
| Panel Discussions | Three discussions focusing on women’s leadership, personal finance, and networking |
| Speaker Highlights | Includes Dr. Egypt Sherrod and others |
| Recognition | Honorees recognized during the Georgia State women’s basketball game |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Georgia State to Host Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon
Celebrating Women of Distinction in Sandy Springs
Additional Resources
- Georgia State Sports: Women Empower, Women Excel Luncheon
- NBA Hawks: Women’s Empowerment Night
- Atlanta News First: Empowering Women for Health
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Inspire Atlanta Fundraising
- Simply Buckhead: Empowering Women and Girls
- Wikipedia: Women’s Empowerment

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