Power of the Purse Luncheon April 23rd | 11:30AM-1PM

Every year, the Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund recognizes remarkable women who have made a lasting impact on our community. These women lead by example—through philanthropy, business, education, and service—creating opportunities and shaping the future of Fond du Lac. This year, we are thrilled to celebrate Holly Brenner, recipient of the 2025 Woman of Achievement Award.

Holly’s journey is one of passion, leadership, and a deep commitment to making a difference. As Senior Vice President of Strategic Development and Marketing for C.D. Smith, she has not only excelled in her professional career but has also dedicated herself to improving the community she calls home.

One of Holly’s most notable achievements was playing a key role in forming Envision Greater Fond du Lac, a merger of two long-standing organizations, the Association of Commerce and the Fond du Lac Economic Development Corporation. She served as the inaugural Chair of the Envision Board of Directors and mentored its first female President and CEO.

Those who know Holly describe her as selfless, energetic, enthusiastic, and deeply kind. She has devoted countless hours to organizations that uplift others, serving on boards and in leadership roles for the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Foundation, Marian University Board of Trustees, Fond du Lac Area Boys and Girls Club, Fond du Lac Family YMCA, Service League of Fond du Lac, Noon Rotary, and Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts, among others. Her philosophy is simple but profound: “Sometimes being selfless with your time and talent is the best thing you can do for yourself and others.”

Holly’s contributions to the Fond du Lac area will be celebrated at the “Power of the Purse” luncheon on April 23, 2025, at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center.

On April 24, 2024, we held our 20th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon – where we celebrated our past, present, and future – specifically all of the amazing individuals and partners who support positive change for Fond du Lac area women and girls.

This year we are thrilled to acknowledge, Laurice Snyder, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Consultant with CESA 6. Laurice has a long history of impact and advocacy in our community in her past D.E.I. roles with Fond du Lac School District and Moraine Park Technical College – as well as in her work with numerous board and community projects.

*Photography by Studio L.

At our 2024 Power of the Purse event, we honored our first Girl of Achievement, Layan Manasrah, for her contributions to the greater Fond du Lac community.

SHEroes – the everyday female heroes of our community!

This year we highlighted individuals who have created ripples of influence and impact around our five foundational fund pillars.