At the Hilton Garden Inn on Thursday, Staten Island’s Women of Achievement event brought together a dazzling crowd of ladies—and some gentlemen—showcasing elegant, sophisticated fashion while honoring exceptional local contributors.
Whether dressed in vibrant daytime cotton prints, sharp power suits accented with pearls, or floral ensembles paired with colorful accessories, attendees displayed signature styles marked by timeless grace and creativity.
About 700 guests gathered in Nicotra’s Ballroom to celebrate the Class of 2025 — the “Sensational Six”: Bryn Biren, Shaw-naé Dixon, Dr. Kerry Kelly, Lorraine Lettieri, Clara Sue Ogburn, and Barbara Joyce Yarbrough. These remarkable women were recognized for their extraordinary volunteerism and dedication to improving Staten Island.
The luncheon honors women who go above and beyond in service to the community, embodying the spirit and mission of the Staten Island Advance Women of Achievement program.
Founded in 1962 by the late Advance Publisher Richard E. Diamond, the luncheon first took place at Tavern on the Green in New Dorp, where guests wore classic hats, retro suits, and elegant gloves. Over the decades, the event moved through various venues—Columbian Lyceum, Excelsior Grand—and now thrives at the Hilton Garden Inn, drawing attendees from near and far.
More than six decades later, the luncheon remains a vibrant celebration filled with camaraderie, community spirit, and standout fashion, blending contemporary style with Staten Island’s unique charm.
Spotlight on Style:
Bryn Biren, Class of 2025, embraced a flowing, soft yellow floral chiffon dress by Mikael Aghal, inspired by the classic elegance of Loretta Young’s look.
Fran Hogan Lehr (Class of 1999) and Denise Henick (Class of 2023) dazzled in Italian Chiara Boni La Petite Robe designs—Fran in a bold red V-neck with bell sleeves, Denise in a blush off-the-shoulder dress with a flowing cape.
Dr. Carrie Robinson (Class of 2015) wore a modern pale pink blazer paired with a pink-and-black floral dress, shopping especially for the event. Her escort, Edward Beaufort Cutner, complemented her look with a navy suit, pink-dotted tie, and an American flag lapel pin.
Tushia Fisher impressed in a striking Ghanaian-made ensemble and matching chapeau called a tengaade by the Fulani people. Her mother, Rebecca Hamilton, sported a sage green suit with a purple hat, while Janet Robinson (Class of 2014) showcased an African print outfit in plum, purple, and shimmering gold tones.
Elissa Montanti (Class of 2011) made a bold statement in a blue-and-black printed two-piece from a boutique in Piermont, N.Y. Kathy Connors (Class of 2019) chose a graceful Caroline Herrera dress in blue with peach-orange floral accents and a matching Italian purse.
Fran Reali (Class of 2008) symbolized spring in a Karl Lagerfeld floral print dress, paired with a matching purse and powder blue shoes.
Donna Long (Class of 1996) mixed a blue dress with a contrasting blue-and-white houndstooth jacket per her daughter’s advice. Barbara D’Amora (Class of 2024) wore a black-and-white fringed blouse over fitted black pants, accented with a necklace honoring her late son. Kristen Long opted for a powder blue sweater dress and coordinating coat with silver buttons.
Carmela (Class of 2019) and her husband Frank Montella embraced tradition, both dressed in creamy beige. Carmela wore the same peplum-style dress she chose when honored six years prior, complete with gold accessories and a Picasso-etched purse, while Frank’s sport jacket matched perfectly.
The luncheon was a stunning showcase of style, spirit, and community—a testament to the lasting legacy of Staten Island’s Women of Achievement.
Related Topics
- Maiden Cricket Seeks Banbury Ambassadors to Champion Women’s Game and Break Barriers in Sport
- Kimberley Startup ‘Bit Going On’ Uses Fashion to Spark Mental Health Awareness
- Top Discounts and Deals at THE ICONIC Right Now
