The Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Women’s Brunch & Bubbly on Friday, March 28, at the Grand Oaks Golf Club. Catered by The Grand Bistro & Bar, the event welcomed dozens of women for a celebratory brunch and mimosas as the Chamber recognized two local leaders as this year’s Women of the Year.
While the brunch is geared primarily toward women in business and community leadership, one notable exception to the guest list was Chamber Board Chairman Brian Garcia, who kicked off the event with heartfelt opening remarks.
“For the past three years, we have gathered during the month of March, which is Women’s History Month, to celebrate women in business and in the community who have achieved great things,” Garcia said. “While we do recognize two women of honor at this event, we also celebrate you. Every woman in this room has been a positive influence in some way or you probably wouldn’t be sitting here.”
He encouraged guests to think of those who have made an impact on their lives and to take a moment to share their appreciation.
“We don’t always get to hear about that impact on this side of our lives, so I’d like to encourage everyone today to reach out to just one other woman—person, colleague, friend—and tell them they are doing a great job,” Garcia added. “You never know how much that can brighten someone’s day and really give them a push of encouragement.”
The highlight of the brunch was the presentation of awards to this year’s honorees, Alyssa Hollie and Pamela Harrison. The announcements were made by Victoria Good, Chamber Chief Operating Officer.
“This year we opened up the opportunity for the community to nominate exceptional women who have gone above and beyond,” Good said. “The Chamber Board of Directors then voted on the final two who we are honoring today.”
Alyssa Hollie, coordinator of Girls Sports and Head Softball Coach for Cleveland ISD, was the first to be recognized.
“Coach Hollie regularly promotes and encourages other women, including business women in the community—some in this room—by spotlighting their accolades and having them mentor the athletes she leads,” Good said. “Her athletes are encouraged and taught to work hard in all parts of their lives and to remain humble, which is something she absolutely embodies. Her commitment to service and placing others before herself is obvious in all she does. She never seeks recognition and always looks to God for her next move.”
Pamela Harrison, finance director and interim city manager for the City of Cleveland, was also honored for her unwavering leadership and dedication.
“Despite facing significant challenges in her personal life, Pam has remained resilient and dedicated to her work,” Good said. “Her ability to persevere through adversity and continue to excel professionally is a testament to her strength, character, and unwavering commitment to the City of Cleveland. Her financial stewardship has been instrumental in advancing the City’s goals, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, and maintaining public trust in our financial systems.”
To see a video of Hollie after winning the award, click here: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BGGgg2htx/
To see a video of Harrison after winning the award, click here: