RENO, Nevada – Each year in May, Nevada Women’s Fund (NWF) holds the Salute to Women of Achievement luncheon, which provides an opportunity for organizations in Northern Nevada to recognize women who have excelled in their fields and made meaningful impacts in their workplace and community.
NWF is thrilled to announce the keynote speaker for the 2024 Salute to Women of Achievement luncheon — Punam Mathur. As the Executive Director of the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation, Mathur has been a driving force for education, equity, civil rights and conservation. Alongside her foundation work, she operates as a sought-after speaker, trainer and writer. Previously, Mathur held key roles at NV Energy, Inc. and MGM MIRAGE, where she spearheaded corporate diversity and community engagement efforts. Under her leadership, MGM MIRAGE received prestigious awards, setting new standards for philanthropy and employee engagement in the gaming industry.
Mathur’s impact extends beyond corporate realms, with appointments to statewide leadership positions by four Nevada governors. She champions public education, serving on various commissions and has earned accolades such as the Athena Award and induction into the Nevada Women’s Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Hall of Fame. Recognized as one of the “Top 100 Influential Women in Las Vegas,” Mathur resides in Las Vegas with her four children, continuing to inspire positive change throughout Nevada.
Among the accomplished women being celebrated at the luncheon is 2024 NWF Hall of Fame inductee Marybel Batjer. Batjer’s remarkable journey from Smith Valley and Carson City to influential roles in California and Washington, D.C. embodies the essence of the luncheon’s theme this year: “The Future Is Bright.” Her upbringing instilled values of honesty, trustworthiness and a passion for public service, leading her to champion diverse interests and women’s equality. With a background in environmental science and urban government, Batjer’s career defied convention, spanning roles from Chief of Staff for Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn to pivotal positions under Governors Schwarzenegger, Brown and Newsom in California, as well as the National Security Council in Washington, D.C. Her tenure showcased strategic acumen and a dedication to advancing women’s roles in various spheres.
In the private sector, Batjer’s expertise in navigating complex policy landscapes was evident during her tenure at Caesars Entertainment Corporation and her current role at California Strategies, LLC. Beyond her professional roles, she has served on numerous boards and commissions, including the National Judicial College and the Nevada Women’s Fund. Her recent leadership as President of the California Public Utilities Commission underscored her ability to navigate challenges with poise and judgment. Marybel’s legacy inspires us to strive for excellence and equity, amplifying voices for social responsibility, diversity and corporate philanthropy in every endeavor.
Nevada Women’s Fund’s annual Salute to Women of Achievement Luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, May 23 at the Downtown Reno Ballroom (401 S. Center St. Reno, NV 89501) from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Honoree slots for the Salute to Women of Achievement Luncheon have all been filled, and only a handful of supporter tables remain available. For more information about the Salute to Women of Achievement Luncheon, visit nevadawomensfund.org or call (775) 786-2335.
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About the Nevada Women’s Fund
Established in 1982, Nevada Women’s Fund (NWF) was formed to empower achievement in Northern Nevada women and families. Nevada Women’s Fund is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, dedicated to strengthening our community by empowering women to uplift their lives and those of their families through education and career advancement. Over 40 years, NWF has awarded more than $9.4 million to Northern Nevada women, families and non-profit community organizations. Visit NevadaWomensFund.org for more information.