The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia hosted its Women in Philanthropy Forum on September 9, 2025. More than 70 women from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Diocese of Camden, and Diocese of Wilmington came together for an afternoon of authentic conversation and meaningful connection.

Women in Philanthropy is a signature initiative of The Catholic Foundation. The Fall Networking Forum creates a space for women working, volunteering, or exploring careers in the Catholic philanthropic sector.

At the event, The Catholic Foundation unveiled the next phase of the initiative, which includes the creation of a collective giving community that will bring together women philanthropists in the greater Philadelphia region. Together they will select and award a $15,000grant to a mission-aligned Catholic organization. The Foundation also announced the return of the Love in Action Award, which will elevate and honor Catholic women whose leadership and service make a lasting impact on the local Church.

“This next phase of Women in Philanthropy reflects exactly what makes this initiative so powerful,” said Ted Qualli, President and CEO of The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia. “By coming together to pool our generosity, we’re not only supporting Catholic organizations doing vital work, but also strengthening the network of women leaders who are shaping the future of Catholic philanthropy.”

The Forum featured a panel discussion led by Dr. Laura Sicola, Executive Coach, with panelists Kathleen Larkin, Chief People Officer at Your Part-Time Controller, LLC and member of The Catholic Foundation’s Board of Trustees; Sunny Li, Chief Financial Officer of The Alliance; and Brittany Tressler, Senior Vice President at Vault Communications. Their candid stories covered salary negotiations, mentorship, career pivots, and the courage to lead with both clarity and compassion.

Attendees echoed the event’s impact:

    - “It was a day of community. It was a day of embrace… Everyone was eager to connect, to inform, and to share,” said Nikki Benson, Director of Development and Marketing, Cranaleith Spiritual Center

    - “The chance to connect with participants from different Catholic organizations and to hear from the speakers was truly energizing” said Olha Zarichynska, MPA, Director of Development, Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation

    - “Listening to their stories reminded me of my own journey which is always rewarding to pause and reflect in how God worked in my life through my career…I always appreciate hearing what inspires women to be their best each and every day,” said Karen Kopecky, Development Officer, Regnum Christi/Legionaries of Christ.

The Forum was made possible by the generous support of The Clark Family, James and Agnes Kim and Family, and the McCloskey Financial Group.