Mark your calendar for Friday, Sept. 12, 2025—the day the Moody Gardens Convention Center transforms into a powerhouse of inspiration, connection, and empowerment. The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome motivational speaker, NY Times Bestselling Author and three-time Paralympic medalist Amy Purdy as keynote speaker for the 18th Annual Galveston Women’s Conference.

This year’s theme, Heart of a Champion, celebrates resilience, courage, and passion—and no one embodies that more than Amy. At just 19, she faced a life-altering battle with Meningococcal Meningitis, resulting in the loss of both legs below the knee. With grit and grace, Amy became one of the most decorated Paralympic snowboarders in U.S. history, co-founded Adaptive Action Sports, danced her way into America’s hearts on Dancing with the Stars, and shared the stage with Oprah.

Joining her is honorary keynote speaker sponsored by Shriners Children’s Texas, Bethany Zummo, a three-time Paralympic gold medalist with the U.S. Women’s Sitting Volleyball Team. Born with a limb deficiency and undergoing amputation at age two, Bethany has spent her life proving that limitations don’t define potential.

We are also proud to honor extraordinary women who embody the Heart of a Champion. Joy (Falgout) Fertitta will receive the Mary Ellen Doyle Legacy Woman of the Year award. The 2025 Ann McLeod Moody Women of the Year honorees are:

  • Leslie Fortenberry, Marketing Director, Elitecare Emergency Hospital
  • Concetta Maceo-Sims, Owner, Maceo Spice & Import Company
  • Maria Luisa Mercado, Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid
  • Magen Moore Ortiz, President, Harbor Offshore Marine
  • Jill Reason, Executive Director, Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre
  • Jocelyn Sullivan, Owner, Sugar Bean Coffee & Cream

Our non-profit spotlights this year are the Christina Sullivan Foundation, which provides inclusive opportunities for individuals with intellectual or physical challenges, and St. Vincent’s House, which offers essential services such as a diaper bank, food pantry, veteran support, and medical care for the uninsured through partnerships with UTMB. Special thanks to our Women of the Year Lunch Sponsor The Big Store.

And don’t miss the return of our EmpowHER Speaker Panel, sponsored by UTMB Health, featuring dynamic women from diverse industries sharing their experiences and advice.

Between sessions, attendees can explore our Memorial Hermann vendor market featuring more than 150 boutiques, businesses, and wellness resources. Sponsors and VIPs will enjoy an exclusive preview on Thursday, Sept. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. and access to the VIP Olympic Village, sponsored by Elitecare Emergency Hospital.

New this year—we’re introducing the Galveston Women’s Conference App, making it easier than ever to connect with fellow attendees, explore vendors, and access event details at your fingertips.

The Galveston Women’s Conference is more than a one-day event—it’s a movement. You’ll laugh, cry, be inspired, and leave ready to conquer your world.

Tickets and sponsorships are on sale now—and this event sells out every year. Visit www.GalvestonChamber.com to reserve your seat, sponsor a table, or bring your entire team.

Be there. Bring your whole heart. And tap into the Heart of a Champion.