Fueling Leadership, Celebrating Impact: PLUS Foundation Luncheon Inspires the Next Wave of Changemakers

Tuesday’s PLUS Foundation Luncheon was more than a midday break—it was a shot of inspiration, connection, and collective momentum. Attendees walked away energized by stories of bold leadership and real change happening both within our industry and far beyond it.

The event highlighted remarkable leaders who are shaping the future of professional liability and pushing our industry forward:

Women’s Leadership Network Scholarships Recipients
Congratulations to Tracee Allen (NAMIC Insurance Company) and Gabby Vance (Wiley Rein LLP)—two outstanding professionals investing in their future and stepping into greater leadership. Through this scholarship, they’ll receive leadership training, mentorship from industry leaders, complimentary WLN event attendance, and a VIP experience at the 2025 PLUS Conference.

Excellence in Diversity Award Honoree
The PLUS Foundation proudly honored Mercedes Colwin, Founding Partner at Gordon Rees LLP – NYC Office, with the Excellence in Diversity Award. Mercedes exemplifies what it means to champion equity and allyship—using her influence to foster meaningful change within the industry.

And then came the keynote that electrified the room.

Sam Rapoport: Empowered to Lead
With 22 seasons in the NFL, Sam has built a movement to create opportunities for women in football (and beyond!)—breaking barriers in spaces once considered unreachable as her accomplishments continue to amplify their impact across a multitude of platforms. She has earned national acclaim including:

• NFL Commissioner’s Award
• Fortune’s 40 Under 40
• Outsports’ “Hero of the Year”
• People Magazine’s “25 Women Changing the World”

Sam challenged us to lead boldly, embrace our authentic voices, and disrupt the status quo. Her inspiring message echoed long after the applause:
It’s anticompetitive to not consider the entire population, so chip away at inclusion to make progress. Diversity makes everyone better—it lifts all shifts when you do it.

The luncheon wasn’t just a celebration—it was a catalyst. A room filled with shared purpose, big goals, and a belief that leadership has no limits.

Here’s to lifting each other higher and shaping what’s next.