By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
It’s that time of the year again — time for the 18th annual Galveston Women’s Conference. This year’s conference will take place Friday, Sept. 12 at Moody Gardens Convention Center. The yearly event is hosted by Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce.
This year’s Mary Ellen Doyle Legacy Woman of the Year award will be going to Joy (Falgout) Fertitta. Fertitta is known for her generosity, commitment to civic causes and devotion to her family. She is married to Vic Fertitta, and after raising their three sons, Jay, Tillman and Todd, she immersed herself in several other roles in the community.
Joy Fertitta volunteered at UTMB in-Patient Services for 25 years and was involved with the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston, UTMB School of Nursing, Bradazzle and the 50 Club of Galveston County.
Six other women will also be honored as the 2025 Ann McLeod Moody Women of the Year. The 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
While celebrating women the conference will also honor two non-profits:
- Christina Sullivan Foundation, providing inclusive opportunities for individuals with intellectual or physical challenges.
- St. Vincent’s House, offering essential services such as its Galveston Diaper Bank, food pantry, veteran support, emergency assistance, and medical care for the uninsured through partnerships with UTMB.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Amy Purdy, three-time Paralympic medalist, New York Times bestselling author and internationally recognized motivational speaker.
This year’s theme is Heart of a Champion and the theme colors are red, white and blue.
The Galveston Women’s Conference is designed to celebrate, inspire, and empower women. Attendees can expect energizing speakers, shopping with 150-plus vendors, networking opportunities, and a full day designed to empower and uplift. Tickets and sponsorships are available at www.GalvestonChamber.com.
