The Vermont Women’s Fund Announces Its Annual Celebration Featuring Shabana Basij-Rasikh
The Vermont Women’s Fund (VWF) will host its Annual Celebration on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the University of Vermont’s Dudley H. Davis Center in Burlington. This year’s event, themed “Because of Her,” will feature a keynote address by Shabana Basij-Rasikh, co-founder and president of the School of Leadership, Afghanistan (SOLA). Lobby doors open at 4:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 5 p.m.
Additional event details are available here.
The annual event will celebrate the Vermont Women’s Fund’s impact through grantmaking, partnerships, and the stories of women and girls across Vermont whose lives and communities have been strengthened through expanded opportunities and community investment.
The theme, “Because of Her,” celebrates the women who shaped our lives and the opportunities we create for others through our collective action and investment.
"For 30 years, the Vermont Women's Fund has invested in women and girls because we know that when they rise, entire communities thrive," said Emily Bush, director of the Vermont Women's Fund. "This year's theme invites us to reflect on the women who opened doors for us, challenged us to dream bigger, and inspired us to create opportunities for others. Year after year, our community of grantees, supporters, and advocates comes together to celebrate what's possible when we invest in women and girls while building momentum for the year ahead."
Shabnam Nolan, executive director of King Street Center in Burlington, a 2026 Vermont Women’s Fund grantee, will serve as emcee and moderator for the evening. The program will also feature a special introduction by Amber Arnold, founder and executive director of SUSU commUNITY Farm.
Featured speaker Shabana Basij-Rasikh is the co-founder and president of the School of Leadership, Afghanistan (SOLA), the first boarding school for Afghan girls. She founded SOLA while studying at Middlebury College and has dedicated her life to expanding educational opportunities for Afghan girls. Her story of hope and perseverance in the face of extraordinary odds has been featured on TED, 60 Minutes, and in The Washington Post.
“Shabana’s remarkable journey embodies the spirit of ‘Because of Her,'” said Bush. “Her determination has opened doors for countless girls and demonstrates the life-changing power of investing in women’s education and leadership. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when women and girls have equitable opportunities.”
The Vermont Women’s Fund is a component fund of the Vermont Community Foundation.
This event is made possible thanks to the Women’s Fund Champion sponsors, Gravel & Shea PC, Green Mountain Power, and the Vermont Community Foundation; as well as Commando, Paul Frank + Collins P.C., Northfield Savings Bank, and Lawson’s Finest Liquids.
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