Flagler College’s historic Ponce Hall was transformed into a Parisian-style marketplace on Thursday, May 14, as Women of Vision hosted its 11th Annual Power of the Purse, a signature fundraising event dedicated to expanding scholarship opportunities for Flagler College students.
This year’s event welcomed 400 guests, marking the largest attendance in Power of the Purse history. The afternoon combined style, philanthropy and purpose, bringing together community leaders, supporters and friends of the college for one of Women of Vision’s most anticipated annual gatherings.
Guests were welcomed with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres before exploring a thoughtfully curated silent auction filled with designer handbags, luggage, fashion accessories and immersive experiences. The event continued with a plated luncheon in the Grand Dining Hall, a live auction and a heartfelt testimonial from a scholarship recipient, offering guests a personal look at the life-changing impact of their support.
The 2026 event generated $265,000 in gross revenue, up from $222,000 in 2025. Since its inception, Women of Vision has now raised $2,634,600 in support of Flagler College students. The organization has funded 121 scholarships since its founding, not including the 24 scholarships awarded for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Power of the Purse serves as the signature fundraiser for Women of Vision at Flagler College, a philanthropic program created to support students through scholarships, mentorship and meaningful engagement. The Women of Vision Endowed Scholarship was established in 2015 by the Women of Vision Advisory Board to create educational and leadership opportunities for students who demonstrate significant financial need, academic commitment, campus involvement and service to the community.
For many students, that support extends beyond tuition assistance. Scholarship funding can ease financial pressure and allow students to more fully participate in college life, pursue internships, engage in service work and focus on academic success. The event’s scholarship recipient testimonial underscored that mission, reminding guests that every paddle raised, purse donated and sponsorship secured directly supports a student’s future.
Beth Toy, 2026 Power of the Purse Chair and Women of Vision Vice Chair, said the event reflects the collective strength of women investing in the next generation.
“There is extraordinary power in the purse when dynamic, generous women come together with a shared purpose,” Toy said. “The energy is electric, the impact is immediate, and the results are life-changing. Together, we are investing in students, empowering future leaders, and strengthening our community for generations to come. Every gift creates opportunity. Every woman makes a difference. Together, we change lives.”
The event was made possible through the support of sponsors, including Program Sponsor Bozard Lincoln, Live Auction Sponsor DJ & Lindsey Real Estate, Reception Sponsor SchomWorks and Raffle Sponsor Glenos Family Charitable Foundation.
With record attendance, increased revenue and 24 new scholarships awarded for the coming academic year, the 11th Annual Power of the Purse demonstrated the continued momentum behind Women of Vision’s mission. What began as an elegant afternoon of handbags and hospitality has grown into a powerful investment in Flagler College students and the community they will one day help lead.
