GOSHEN, Ind. — The International Women’s Day Luncheon in Goshen returns March 5 with an expanded partnership and a clear message: when women give, communities gain.
The City of Goshen and the Community Relations Commission host the third-annual luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bread & Chocolate in the Old Bag Factory. Doors open at 11 a.m. This year, the City partners with the Goshen Chamber of Commerce Women In Business Network, strengthening ties between civic leadership and professional women across the region.
Event Details
- WHEN: Thursday, March 5, 2026
- TIME: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Doors open at 11 a.m.
- WHERE: Bread & Chocolate, Old Bag Factory, 1100 Chicago Ave.,
Goshen IN
Purchase Your Tickets
Individual tickets, which includes a catered lunch buffet, dessert and refreshments, are $45. You can reserve yout spot and purchase your ticket(s) by clicking the link button below:
International Women’s Day Luncheon in Goshen Centers on “Give to Gain”
The 2026 theme, “Give to Gain,” frames leadership as reciprocal. When women invest time, knowledge, and opportunity in others, institutions grow stronger and influence expands across generations.
Mayor Gina Leichty will address women’s leadership in public life and the responsibility to mentor future leaders. Organizers have assembled a diverse lineup representing higher education, nonprofit leadership, financial services, and small business.
Featured Speakers
Kari Tarman
A Goshen resident, Kari serves as director of Hesburgh Women of Impact at the University of Notre Dame. She leads programs advancing women’s leadership through research, mentorship, and community engagement, equipping women to influence institutions at scale.
Tami Hicks
Tami is president and chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County. She oversees youth development initiatives supporting academic success, character growth, and career readiness across the region.
Giselle Hernandez
Giselle is a Realtor and broker associate with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northern Indiana Real Estate. She also serves as an active member of the Goshen Chamber’s Women In Business Network, strengthening business and community connections.
Megan Hessl
Megan is a Trust and Charitable Administrator at Everence Financial, where she fuels the generosity of others by guiding thoughtful stewardship of their unique gifts. A passionate community advocate, she serves the City of Goshen on multiple boards and commissions and is President of the Historic Southside Neighborhood Association. Megan is committed to strengthening neighborhoods, cultivating civic engagement, and helping her community grow with intention and purpose.
Partnership With Women In Business Network
The Women In Business Network connects professional women across industries through leadership development, strategic networking, and mentorship. Its partnership with the City reflects a shared commitment to advancing women’s leadership in business and civic life.
Organizers expect 100 to 125 guests. As the event enters its third year, the focus remains direct: recognize women whose leadership sustains Goshen and encourage investment in the next generation.
About the Community Relations Commission
The Community Relations Commission (CRC) is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Goshen by creating programs and initiatives that benefit all community members. The Commission is committed to establishing a city free from racism and discrimination. It fosters strong bonds among residents and within neighborhoods, addresses complex issues, advocates for health, safety, and wellness, and encourages courteous and respectful interactions among Goshen’s diverse population.
About International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a global observance held each year on March 8 to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. First recognized in the early 20th century, the day also serves as a call to action for advancing equality and expanding opportunity for women and girls worldwide. Communities, organizations, and institutions across the globe mark the occasion through events, dialogue, and initiatives that promote leadership, mentorship, and measurable progress.
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