2023 women of distinction

Houston leading ladies receive surprise honor as 2023 Women of Distinction

Tammie Ann Johnson Women of Distinction 2023

Woman of Distinction Tammie Ann Johnson (third from left) with (left to right) Cheryl Byington, Heidi Rockecharlie, Beth Wolff, Mary Ann McKeithan, Leila Perrin, and Cynthia Wolff.

Photo courtesy of The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

A group of Houston leading ladies recently received a surprise honor for their tireless work in the community.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation recently held its Surprise Day for its newest class of Women of Distinction. The fun tradition was hosted by upscale boutique Elizabeth Anthony.

This year’s class is as follows: Tammie Johnson, Lisa Sailor, Jordan Seff, Rani Puranik, Mayte Weitzman,and Evelyn Leightman, who is the 2023 Ambassador.

These women will be honored at the annual Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation 2023 Winter Ball, which raises critical funds for research and patient support.

Each year, Women of Distinction are selected based on their leadership in and impact on the Houston community. The nominations process is rigorous, according to the foundation. Judges represent a diverse group of CEOs, Women of Distinction, non-profit and community leaders. The Oversight Committee remains another touchstone to ensure the process remains fair and equitable. Both groups are anonymous to ensure the process is competitive, according to a press release.

As for the event, family, friends, foundation staff were on hand to surprise the nominees. Also making an appearance: Cheryl Byington, Gayla Gardner, Sharon Owens, Kelley Lubancko, Mary Ann McKeithan, Leila Perrin, Dena Rafte, Heidi Rockecharlie, Miriam Sera, Helen Shaffer, Kelli Weinzierl, Beth Wolff, Chris Rowley, and Tim Goedecker.

Socially minded locals should watch for date and location of the 2023 Winter Ball to be announced later this year.

Woman of Distinction Tammie Ann Johnson (third from left) with (left to right) Cheryl Byington, Heidi Rockecharlie, Beth Wolff, Mary Ann McKeithan, Leila Perrin, and Cynthia Wolff.

Photo courtesy of The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

Woman of Distinction Tammie Ann Johnson (third from left) with (left to right) Cheryl Byington, Heidi Rockecharlie, Beth Wolff, Mary Ann McKeithan, Leila Perrin, and Cynthia Wolff.

charity galas

Building dreams

Sold-out Houston luncheon celebrates Habitat for Humanity

Photo by Priscilla Dickson

Kristi Gilliam, Janis Priest Neal, Laurie Allen, and Michelle King.

Houston Habitat for Humanity laid the foundation for the future at its annual "Building a Dream" luncheon on October 22. The fundraiser at the Briar Club roused an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, community leaders, and volunteers to champion the mission of erecting affordable homes and being a catalyst for brighter futures.

With a sold-out crowd filling the room to the rafters, the energy was palpable — a testament to the dedication of event co-chairs Chinhui Juhn, Linda Epner, and Paige Erwin. Their commitment, along with that of the audience, celebrated a milestone moment for the organization, which has helped more than 1,200 families build and achieve safe, affordable housing.

The event featured an inspiring keynote by women’s rights advocate Sima Ladjevardian, this year's recipient of the Building Dreams Award. Known for her work championing women’s rights and economic mobility, Ladjevardian's words resonated deeply with Houston Habitat for Humanity’s mission. Her speech laid brick by brick the importance of homeownership in creating stability, economic resilience, and a prosperous future — values that echo the nonprofit’s commitment to empowering families across the city.

In a touching tribute, attendee Lillie Robertson honored Ladjevardian’s recognition by making a donation of $30,000 on the spot, dedicating the gift to Houston Habitat’s ongoing work. This generous moment was one of many cornerstones throughout the event that highlighted the organization’s impact on families and communities. A powerful lineup of videos showcased the testimonials of Habitat homeowners and the heartfelt dedication of volunteers who help lay the foundations and raise the roofs to make homeownership a reality. These stories highlighted not just the organization addressing Houston’s growing housing challenges but the ultimate outcome: Creating spaces where people can build families, create memories, and thrive.

Serving as master of ceremonies, KPRC meteorologist Justin Stapleton brought his warmth and energy to the afternoon, building momentum as he guided patrons through a program focused on Houston Habitat's achievements and ambitions. Since Hurricane Harvey alone, the organization has rebuilt and repaired more than 800 homes.

Looking forward, Houston Habitat remains committed to expanding its reach and building up neighborhoods across the city, from the Fifth Ward to Clinton Park and beyond. This luncheon laid the groundwork for the organization’s ambitious goals in the coming year.

Among the 350 builders of hope were Masoud Ladjevardian, Rania Daniel, Whitney Radley, Sabiha Rehmatullah, Annette Mullins, Christopher Gardner, Carrie Pepi, Sue and Randy Sim, Jane Cizik, and Dr. Esmaeil Porsa.

Photo by Priscilla Dickson

Kristi Gilliam, Janis Priest Neal, Laurie Allen, and Michelle King.

fundraiser habitat for humanity gala