Twenty-five years ago, Women Leaders Forum (WLF) founder Mary T. Roche had a vision: create a forum where women could gather, connect and grow as leaders. She believed empowering women empower women, and that simple, powerful truth has been the north star of this non-profit organization. WLF is where like-minded professional women work together to make a difference in the community.

From preparing the next generation of leaders to honoring trailblazers throughout the valley, WLF is proud of every sponsor, donor, volunteer and member who makes our goals possible. Everything we accomplish is the direct result of the passionate and dedicated individuals who work behind the scenes. WLF’s success is the direct result of community leaders committed to leading with intention and excellence. It’s women from different backgrounds empowering one another and forging deep friendships as they pay it forward to the next generation through the Young Women Leaders educational scholarship program.

This year, WLF proudly awarded 27 scholarships to local high school seniors at the 13th annual Women Who Rule Awards and Scholarship Luncheon. Program graduates hail from Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Desert Mirage, Shadow Hills, Indio, Desert Hot Springs and La Quinta. This fall, these bright scholars will fulfill their academic dreams as they head to College of the Desert, UC San Diego, UC Riverside, UC Santa Barbara, San Diego State University, CSU Long Beach, CSU San Bernardino, CSU San Marcos, CSU Los Angeles, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Grand Canyon University, Virginia Military Institute and Delaware County Community College.

We are grateful to our sponsors, donors and mentors for their contributions, time and resources. These students represent the future of the Coachella Valley, and to say we are proud of their accomplishments is an understatement.

Whether you are new to the valley, seeking network opportunities or looking to give back, we invite you to consider WLF membership. Not only is this a wonderful organization to connect with like-minded women from all backgrounds, but programming also helps you to grow as a leader, support other women and make a lasting impact in the community.

As a non-profit organization, WLF is fully supported by volunteers. We are currently planning our 2026-27 season and looking for individuals who can lend their expertise in grant writing, sponsorship, event programming and mentoring our young women leaders.

Our board and committees are already planning an exciting season. Watch for our Happy 2 Hours event in August and season opener in September. On behalf of the entire WLF organization, thank you for 25 extraordinary years. Here’s to the next exciting chapter together!

Vikki Dorsey is the incoming president of Women Leaders Forum for the 2026-2027 season. For more information on how you can get involved, email info@wlfdesert.org or visit www.wlfdesert.org.