The Northwood University Fashion Showcase played a significant role in this year’s Distinguished Women Awards Gala by presenting an impressive collection of dresses donated by past award recipients.
Trinity Burtch, the director of the 2025 Fashion Showcase, spearheaded the initiative to gather dresses for the event. Jen Carpenter, the signature events director, noted that the display was stunning and added a memorable touch to the gala’s programming.
Burtch, a senior studying fashion marketing and management from St. Charles, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to showcase these gowns. She emphasized that the dresses symbolize the remarkable journeys of the women who wore them. “Northwood’s Distinguished Women Awards Gala is my favorite event. I love empowering women and recognizing their contributions to society,” she said.
A highlight of the showcase was the inclusion of six dresses from renowned designer Pamella Roland DeVos, a 2007 Distinguished Women Award recipient. Burtch praised DeVos for her generosity, noting that her designs have been worn by celebrities such as Angelina Jolie and Taylor Swift. DeVos is also recognized for her contributions to fashion education, with a school named in her honor.
Since 1970, the Distinguished Women Awards have celebrated individuals who embody values like hard work and creativity, reflecting Northwood University’s core philosophy. Proceeds from the awards support scholarships for students.
The gala took place on October 26 at The H Hotel in Midland, Michigan, honoring several distinguished women, including:
Anne Hathaway: President & CEO of Hathaway Strategies.
Sharon Johnson: Executive director of operations at Piston Group.
Mary Kissel: Executive vice president and senior policy advisor at Stephens Inc.
Diane R. Maher: President and chief strategy officer for DP Fox Ventures.
Ann McBrien: Former vice president at CBD Global Healthcare.
Burtch highlighted the invaluable impact these honorees have on students. She is currently being mentored by Nancy Barker, one of the inaugural award recipients. Together, they plan to preserve and curate the collection of dresses loaned to Northwood University for future generations.
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