May 7, 2026

Greater Palm Springs Trailblazers to Be Honored at Annual Women Who Lead Event

By Staff & Wire Reports
Greater Palm Springs women leaders - group image

Special guest speaker, former Senator Barbara Boxer (l), and the honorees of the 2026 Women Who Lead Luncheon, presented by SBEMP Attorneys in partnership with Palm Springs Life.

 

The community is invited to attend an inspiring luncheon celebrating three exceptional women whose leadership, passion, and service are helping transform the Coachella Valley and beyond. SBEMP Attorneys, in partnership with Palm Springs Life, present the annual Women Who Lead Luncheon to honor three remarkable women recognized for their professional achievements and dedication to our community.

The gathering, on May 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, will unite community leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and supporters in recognition of three highly respected women leaders and celebrate their meaningful impact across the region. Former U.S. Sen. and Coachella Valley resident Barbara Boxer will deliver the keynote address, sharing insights on leadership, perseverance, and the importance of empowering women in public life and beyond.

“I’m so inspired by this year’s Women Who Lead honorees. Through their professional achievements, philanthropic efforts, and personal examples, they make the Coachella Valley stronger in meaningful ways. We look forward to celebrating them at our annual luncheon and are thrilled to have former Sen. Barbara Boxer serve as keynote speaker,” said Emily Chavous Foster, editor-in-chief of Palm Springs Life.

Since 2013, Women Who Lead has honored outstanding women creating meaningful change through visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to strengthening their communities. This year’s honorees, driving meaningful change while inspiring future generations of leaders, include:

  • Business Leader: Julie Bloom, Chief Operating Officer of The Sunrise Company
  • Nonprofit Leader: Cindy Burreson, Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert
  • Rising Star: Priscilla Zamarron, Clinical Simulation Manager at Eisenhower Health
Valerie Powers Smith, Esq.

Valerie A. Powers Smith, Esq., Partner, SBEMP Attorneys

“Our firm has proudly supported Women Who Lead since its inception because we believe in highlighting the essential role professional women play in the economic and social well-being of our region,” said Valerie Powers Smith, a partner at SBEMP Attorneys and chair of the firm’s Trust, Estate & Probate Litigation and Special Needs & Elder Law Departments. “These three women are bettering their community through their extraordinary accomplishments and dedication.”

The May issue of Palm Springs Life will feature coverage of the honorees. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit palmspringslife.com/women-who-lead.

Proceeds from the event will benefit IECF Women’s Giving Fund and Do The Right Thing Greater Palm Springs. Event sponsors include SBEMP Attorneys, California Bank & Trust, Diamond Wish, Desert Hills Premium Outlets, Agim Salon, The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, Lotus Garden Center and La Fe Wine Bar.

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