When it comes to creating positive change in the community, never send a man to do a woman’s job.
And then say thank you.
Palm Beach Atlantic University gets both right at its Women of Distinction Luncheon.
The 34th annual event took place Feb. 17 at The Breakers and honored Palm Beachers Hilary Geary Ross and Sara McCann.
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The sold-out afternoon included a reception, a stirring performance by the Palm Beach Atlantic chorale, luncheon, and the recognition of the honorees.
Ross is a Palm Beach resident, author, editor and philanthropist whose impact expands from Palm Beach to New York and beyond. She is the author of two coffee table books, “New York, New York” and “Palm Beach People.” Ross currently serves on the board of the Blenheim Foundation USA, Palm Beach Preservation Foundation and the Trustees’ Council of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
“I’m deeply grateful to Palm Beach Atlantic University and truly humbled by this honor,” said Ross. “Your support and recognition mean more to me than I can express. I’m especially thankful for my husband, Wilbur; my sister Robin; my goddaughter and my dear friends who are sharing this moment with me — your love and presence make this occasion even more meaningful.”
McCann, a board member of Palm Beach Atlantic University, is CEO and creative director of Hive, a collection of brands devoted to luxury products and high-quality services.
“I’m incredibly honored to be named a Woman of Distinction,” said McCann. “Palm Beach Atlantic University has been part of my journey from the beginning, not only as a neighbor but as a valued source of team members whose character and work ethic reflect the university’s core values to seek unity, pursue excellence, show respect, reflect love, demonstrate integrity and be accountable.”
The afternoon also saw the presentation of the Humanitarian Award to PBAU alum Michele Rigby Assad. A former CIA Intelligence Officer, she was honored for her commitment to international diplomacy, exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to supporting PBA over the years.
Luncheon committee members included Evelyn Mahanes, Katherine Shenaman, Laura Titus and former WOD recipients Frances Fisher, Cathy Flagg, Denise Hanley, Amb. Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Penny Murphy, Sheila Rinker and Joyce Sang.
Nearly 400 people attended, including previous honorees Amb. Nancy Brinker, Lore Moran Dodge, Diane Ecclestone, Mary Fairbanks Frietas, Gay Hart Gaines, Vicki Halmos, Michele Kessler, Hildegarde Mahoney, Mayor Danielle Moore, Lois Pope, Sheila Rinker, Helen Ross, Joyce Sang, Amanda Schumacher, Sally Ross Soter, Joanie Vandergrift, Susan Wright, and Fisher, Flagg, Hanley, McElveen-Hunter and Murphy.
Proceeds from the luncheon benefit a scholarship fund for women attending PBAU. The fund, which currently supports 17 students, will expand to 100 in the 2026-27 academic year.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Palm Beach Society: University celebrates 2026 Women of Distinction
Reporting by Shannon Donnelly, Palm Beach Daily News / Palm Beach Daily News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Shannon Donnelly, Palm Beach Daily News | USA TODAY Network
