What an extraordinary few days in Austin!
PowerUP! Texas was more than a conference — it was a gathering of bold, generous, forward-thinking leaders who believe deeply in the power of women’s collective giving.
From the opening moments to our final conversations, attendees showed up with curiosity, courage, and commitment. They asked hard questions. Shared real challenges. Celebrated impact. And we were reminded — over and over — that when women give together, transformation follows.
Keynote That Moved Us Forward
We were honored to welcome Diane Yentel, President & CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits, as our Monday night keynote.
Diane challenged us to:
- Stand firmly with and for nonprofits
- Understand the policy landscape affecting our grantees
- Use our collective voices as boldly as we use our collective dollars
Her message was clear: philanthropy must be courageous, informed, and unwavering in its commitment to community.
It was a powerful call to action — and a reminder that leadership is not optional in times like these.
And were inspired by all of our plenary speakers: Kasandra Vitacca Mitchell, Sara Lomelin, Julian Castro, Tony Bowen, Michelle Gayles, Mike Nellis and Lynne Twist.
2026 Spotlight Award Honorees
We were proud to celebrate these outstanding circles whose impact exemplifies the strength of collective giving:
Impact100 Sonoma - Recognized for its long-standing partnership with Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance.
Impact San Antonio - Recognized for a transformational investment for cultural preservation in Esperanza Peace and Justice Center – Museo del Westside
100 Women Strong at Central Florida Foundation - Celebrated for its powerful investment in Women on the Rise.
Through Breakouts and Affinity Groups, We…
- Explored what it means to Meet the Moment
- Strengthened our circles through strategy, governance, and storytelling
- Amplified BIPOC voices and nonprofit partnerships
- Celebrated impact stories that reflect our shared values
- Connected across states, models, and experiences
- Laughed, learned, and built relationships that will carry forward long after Austin
We are deeply grateful to our speakers, sponsors, volunteers, Opportunity Advocates, and every participant who contributed their voice and energy.
Conferences like this don’t just happen — they are built by a community that believes in something bigger than itself.
The ripple effect continues.
With gratitude,
Ann Marie McGee
On behalf of the Philanos Board of Directors
