News - Empowering Catholic Women: GIVEN Forum Celebrates Unique Gifts

The GIVEN Catholic Young Women’s Leadership Forum, hosted by the GIVEN Institute in Washington, D.C., is a pivotal event aimed at empowering Catholic women aged 21-35 by helping them recognize and utilize their unique gifts. Spanning five days from June 24-28, 2026, this transformative gathering includes keynote speeches, leadership training, mentorship, and spiritual activities such as adoration, prayer, and Mass. Executive Director Jennifer Cole-Schaefer passionately explains that the event's purpose is to instill in women the understanding that they are a treasured gift, uniquely designed by God to fulfill specific roles in the Church and the world. Participants accepted into the program engage in a year-long mentorship where they develop personalized action plans to serve their communities effectively. This mentorship extends beyond the forum, providing ongoing support as women begin to implement their plans with the guidance of experienced mentors. Inspirational sessions from renowned speakers, like Sister of Life Bethany Madonna and Scripture Professor Mary Healy, are highlights of the forum, offering wisdom on leadership and mission. The forum also includes various panels featuring GIVEN alumni who share testimonies about the valuable formation they received. Montse Alvarado, EWTN News President and COO, is set to discuss how young women can respond to their callings with their talents. In a poignant moment, Mother Agnes Mary Donovan of the Sisters of Life will be awarded the Fiat Award, celebrating her lifelong dedication to leadership and service. Dominican Sister Mary Madeline Todd delivered a stirring keynote, emphasizing the divine truth that 'you are the gift' and stressing the importance of communion over societal values of comfort and control. Her words encourage women to embrace their struggles, allowing God's love and grace to manifest through their lives, ultimately bringing beauty into the world. The forum's goal is for attendees to leave feeling inspired and prepared to transform the world according to God's calling, knowing that their ultimate, unchanging gift is God's friendship and love.