Lessons from Leno
Jewels of Autumn
Mavis Leno shares her passion for feminism with YWCA luncheon crowd
Third annual benefit raises $95,000 for the Alegent Health Foundation
Story and photo by Corey Ross
Story and photos courtesy of Alegent Health
avis Leno, wife of comedian Jay Leno, made the first event for the YWCA’s Guild, YW Partners, a memorable one in November. Leno gave an inspirational and passionate address about her advocacy for women’s rights around the world and particularly in Afghanistan. She told a luncheon crowd of 350 gathered for the Paint the Town Orange luncheon at the downtown Embassy Suites about her history as a feminist and her work on behalf of Afghan women. To explain her passion for women’s rights, Leno shared a story about her childhood. She said she grew up wanting to be a jockey but was told by her father at a young age that women couldn’t be jockeys. “The idea of being flunked at birth was infuriating to me,” she said. She soon found herself studying women’s issues and admiring those who accomplished such things as achieving suffrage for women through great sacrifice. She said she chose to honor those women through her own work. “I can’t go back in history to thank them, so I have to pay it forward.” Leno then explained her empathy for the plight of women in Afghanistan, who’ve lost most of their personal freedoms under the Taliban regime. She cited several ways that her advocacy, including testifying before Congress, and the work of others has made a difference. Leno’s appearance helped raise $48,000 for the YWCA. Leno applauded the work of the YWCA and encouraged luncheon attendees to make a difference and not be daunted by any challenge or cause they truly feel passionate about. “Human beings are small, but en masse they are an unstoppable force,” she said. “Only God knows what is impossible; the rest of just have to keep trying.”
ome 300 people came out to support in-patient cancer care for Alegent Health Lakeside Hospital at this year's Jewels of Autumn in October. The Alegent Health Foundation's signature event is now in its third year. The event raised $95,000 and featured a silent auction, entertainment by Susie Thorne and a raffle featuring sparkling diamond earrings. Other jewels were also for sale. John Knicely, WOWT anchor, served as the emcee and men were also entertained by four big screens featuring various college football games.
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Mavis Leno (middle) with co-chairs Beth Koukol and Kathy Peterson.
www.omahapublications.com
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Top: Dr. Doug Dunning, Lakeside Charitable Council member; JoAnne Jarvis, chair of Jewels of Autumn; and Wayne Sensor, CEO of Alegent Health. Above: Christel White; Dr. Greg Severson; and Richard Hachten II, president of Alegent Health. january/february | 2009
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